Thank you Netgalley & Henry Holt and Co for an eARC♥️🤩

I'll never forget the moment I stumbled upon Curdle Creek, a rural American town shrouded in mystery and tradition. Its idyllic surface masked a world of eerie ceremonies, mysterious disappearances, and timeless struggles.
Meet Osira, a 45-year-old widow whose life has been shattered by loss. Her children have left, and her sense of purpose is dwindling. But when her dad vanishes in the chilling "Moving-On" ceremony, Osira's world unravels.
As she navigates this treacherous landscape, Osira's transported to rural England, where kindness comes with unexpected consequences. She's learning:
📌Home can be a prison, not a sanctuary.
📌Belonging can suffocate individuality.
📌Motherhood knows no bounds, but what happens when your children leave?
The town's sinister forces will stop at nothing to maintain control. Osira must confront:
📌The darkness beneath Curdle Creek's façade.
📌The true cost of tradition and conformity.
📌The power of self-discovery and rebellion.
What drew me to Curdle Creek was its haunting cover art – a perfect reflection of the story's eerie atmosphere. Yvonne Battle-Felton's masterful storytelling will keep you on the edge of your seat🤩🔥

You might well find yourself questioning your assumptions as you turn the pages of this atmospheric and often creepy novel narrated by Osiria, a woman struggling with her past and worried about the future. The town of Curdle Creek has a regimented set of rituals and requirements meant to keep the population if nothing else, in its place but it's not a good thing, not at all. This, as noted, has heavy overtones of The Lottery but it's Osiria that both makes it different and makes it work. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. No spoilers from me.

I wanted to like this book. There were times when I appreciated the metaphors. But it dragged on. The writing style didn’t allow for true tension to build. The characters were mostly flat and uninteresting. Too simplistic. The last fourth of the book made me want to DNF. I’m no quitter.

Thank you to MacMillan Audio and Henry Holt Books for the review copies of Curdle Creek by Yvonne Battle-Felton, narrated by Joniece Battle-Pratt.
This book is perfect for fans of works like Kindred and serves as both an homage to, and expansion of, Shirley Jackson's The Lottery.

The plot and tone are expertly crafted—unsettling and undeniably sinister, as one review noted. The story is richly nuanced, delving into themes of belonging, the weight of decisions and actions from the past, and a much-needed exploration of what it means to be Black—where, how, and when Black lives are seen, supported, and accepted. I was captivated by Osira’s journey as she is forced to confront how the events surrounding Curdle Creek shaped her present. Her journey to the past sets in motion revelations that deepen the plot and make her a symbol of the importance of folktales in understanding identity and culture.

Although haunting and unsettling, the story is layered with hope and persistence, centering on the strength of Black women and their roles throughout history and into the present.

The audiobook narration is particularly stellar—Joniece Battle-Pratt’s tone, pacing, and style perfectly set the mood, and I am now a fan of her work.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Yvonne Battle-Felton’s “Curdle Creek” is a hauntingly inventive novel that masterfully blends elements of American gothic, surrealism, and literary horror. Set in the eerie and enigmatic town of Curdle Creek, this novel explores themes of home, belonging, motherhood, and the legacies we inherit from society.

The story follows the lives of several residents of Curdle Creek, each grappling with their own personal demons and the town’s dark history. At the heart of the novel is the enigmatic figure of Eliza, a woman whose mysterious past and unsettling presence cast a long shadow over the community. As the narrative unfolds, Battle-Felton skillfully weaves together the characters’ stories, revealing the interconnectedness of their fates and the secrets that bind them.

Battle-Felton’s prose is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into the atmospheric world of Curdle Creek. Her vivid descriptions of the town and its surroundings create a sense of place that is both beautiful and foreboding. The author’s ability to infuse the mundane with the supernatural adds a layer of tension and intrigue that keeps readers on edge.

“Curdle Creek” is explores motherhood and the complexities of familial relationships. Battle-Felton delves into the emotional and psychological depths of her characters, portraying their struggles with empathy and nuance. The themes of inheritance and legacy are central to the novel, as the characters confront the ghosts of their pasts and the choices that have shaped their lives.

The plot is a masterclass in suspense, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Battle-Felton’s ability to craft a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant is truly remarkable. The pacing is impeccable, ensuring that the story never loses momentum.

Curdle Creek” is a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and literary horror. Yvonne Battle-Felton has crafted a novel that is as thought-provoking as it is chilling, with richly developed characters and a plot that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Battle-Felton’s work or new to her writing, this book promises an unforgettable reading experience.

Curdle Creek is set in a small town that has a sinister tradition. The book has a really good premise and I loved the cover but sadly this was one I did not enjoy. It was slow for me and it could not hold my attention. The book was confusing for me, as well. I did like the forebidden town and the characters were good. Overall even though this book was not one for me I would still suggest readers who like horror to give this one a try. Thank you to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for this ARC read in exchange of my honest review of Curdle Creek by Yvonne Battle-Felton.

With an ominous town with traditions that may be difficult to survive, Curdle Creek lives off the belief that these sacrifices make them safer than anywhere else. After all, you might not survive to become an elder, but at least the town doesn’t have riots throughout the streets, right? What else could you want? (But if you ask too many questions, you may be asked to leave. Permanently).

Told from the perspective of a 45-year old widow, Osiria Turner, struggling to keep her head down and follow all the rules of her town, this book slowly brings you into her world. With many traditions that we only get glimpses of throughout - Moving On, Warding Off, Running of the Widows - we slowly begin to see the cult-like beliefs held in this town, and that no matter how close to someone you are, you can never fully trust anyone here.

For the first 60% of this book, I was hooked on Osira’s struggle as she tried to appease her mother, the town, and make sure that her very own name would not be called for the Moving On ceremony. As she dealt with the disappearance of her children (Did they run away and survive, or are they dead somewhere? And with how dangerous the outside world is, would it be better if they didn’t survive?), to the death of her husband, and her failures to stop being a widow and to become a wife once again - bringing even more shame unto her family. I really liked the perspective of someone who believes the cult-like beliefs of her town, but isn’t a “true believer” and still has a few questions about the practices going on.

I will say that I fully believe I think this book should have been at least 100 pages shorter, or possibly a novella, instead of the current 300+ pages it is. Once we moved to the chapter at the 61%, this book took a rather strange turn that made the rest of my reading experience a bit more confusing and convoluted. Without giving too many spoilers, our main character somehow discovers a strange magic briefly described and insulted throughout the book beforehand, and uses it to travel to a few separate places. However, none of these places make a great deal of sense, or are smoothly taken from one scene to the other, which I thought was rather confusing. As well as the fact that this section suddenly moved what felt like a book fairly grounded in reality to one more in the magical/supernatural sense, which I personally didn’t feel fit the vibe of the rest of the novel.

The entire second 40% of the book felt strangely disconnected from the first 60%, and felt like an offshoot of what we had previously read before. I didn’t feel like how these last chapters ended the story to be satisfactory to the rest of the story, and I feel I would have enjoyed this book had they not been included. As well, there were a few times that I felt scenes could have been cut or shortened, which is why I think this book would have been a better read if the story was tightened to only about 150 pages instead. However, I do think this was an interesting read about being trapped in a cult-like town without anywhere else to turn, and I do recommend checking it out for yourself.

A huge thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Henry Holt and Company for providing this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to say that I absolutely enjoyed this Lottery-esque novel about a small-town housing only black people that has some deep-rooted traditions. The novel follows Osira and her struggles as she endures obstacles from the town ceremonies, motherhood, and life. This is a good book for spooky season.

If you are a fan of dystopian fiction and ambiguous endings, pick up a copy of Curdle Creek, a novel named for the black community in which most of it is set. Focusing on Osira, a 40-something woman, Yvonne Battle-Felton was almost certainly inspired by Shirley Jackson’s most famous short story, “The Lottery.” Curdle Creek’s Running of the Widows, Calling, Moving On, and Warding Off are long-practiced traditions believed to ensure a good harvest and protect the townspeople from epidemics, wars, racism, and lynchings rampant elsewhere.

Osira has already lost a grandfather, brother, and husband to the Moving On and failed twice in winning a new husband in the Running of the Widows. Another brother and her three children have not been seen since fleeing Curdle Creek. Life is about to get worse.

Although readers receive hints of racial violence outside the community, racism never comes to the forefront despite closeup looks at life in other times and places. I was left feeling that Battle-Felton had missed an opportunity, but perhaps she did not want to go there. Whatever the case, she seems to convey the message that whatever their good intentions, people are incapable of creating a good society.

Or are they? What lies ahead? Does Osira survive? If so, will she find her long-lost children? The abrupt, ambiguous ending prevents us from knowing. Does Battle-Felton plan a sequel?

Thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Co. for an advance reader egalley. Although Curdle Creek did not meet my expectations, readers who gravitate toward dystopian fantasy may love it.

What in the world did I just read? I can't even describe the ending. It is so amazing. This is a wonderful depiction of a toxic small town environment but like worse. I was really hoping our girl, and her daddy, got away.
Just read this crazy amazing book.

Curdle Creek is loosely based on Shirley Jackson’s short story, “The Lottery.” Curdle Creek is an all-Black town, dependent on rituals such as Calling, Running of the Widows, Moving On, and Warding Off to keep the town prosperous and, in theory, a safe place to live.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Curdle Creek isn’t a bulwark against the violent world around them, but far more dangerous to its citizens than any other place that exists. But nothing is questioned by the residents of Curdle Creek, and anyone suspected of being less than a true believer is subject to the Moving On. Osira Turner finds herself in that precarious position. She is determined to survive and find the children that escaped the town years ago, but the town may have other plans for her future.

I have mixed emotions about this novel. While the similarities between “The Lottery” and Curdle Creek are there, Curdle Creek needs more context for its rituals and the roles people hold. It’s also a matriarchal society, buy why is never explained, just hinted at. Two women in particular, Osira’s mother, a nasty woman, and her life-long friend Mother Opal seem to be the ones in charge. There are also Charter Mothers, but the roles they occupy and the power they may or may not have isn’t clear. Well Walkers is another term that isn’t explained well. It’s a derogatory term for specific people, but why? And what is up with the rocks they collect? The time travel/shifting timelines are confusing, and I think it’s because for me it isn’t clear exactly how they fit into the novel overall. While I don’t need a happily-ever-after ending, the wide-open ending of this novel left way more questions (on top of a lot of questions already) than answers.

While I really liked the premised of the book, Curdle Creek wasn’t for me, but that doesn’t mean it may not be for you.
3/5 stars

Thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for a free e-copy of the book. All opinions are my own.

Everyone should have traditions….the kind passed down from generation to generation, beliefs, customs. Sometimes, whether you want them or not, it’s something that we should keep. After reading Curdle Creek, maybe not. The traditions there include, Moving On, a Calling, Warding Off. Just try to get out of one of those generational traditions like Osira (main character) did. You might end up…..no, she didn’t die. Or did she? Creepily suspenseful.

This literary piece evoked a profoundly unsettling sensation. It adeptly penetrated my psyche and induced a sense of claustrophobia, a sentiment I never imagined I would experience from a book. While initially challenged by the author's prose, the narrative was exceptionally captivating. The premise and substance were undeniably intriguing, leaving me eagerly anticipating future works from this talented author.

The premise of this book sounded right up my alley but it was too slow to really hold my attention. I don’t feel like it ever really fully grabbed my attention. I like a slow burn but this one was just too slow for me :(

I really wanted to like this book better than I did. It has an interesting premise but I found it confusing as there were so many traditions to understand (Moving On, Warding Off, Running of the Widows....). Protagonist Osira is in a difficult position and is not sure where to turn. The novel has gothic vibes and is clearly a dystopia but I ended up skimming the last half as I got so lost in all of the "rites" that my brain hurt.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!

This is like a cross between The Lottery by Shirley Jackson (love, but also creepy) and the movie The Village by M. Night Shyamalan (definitely creepy). I was definitely here for it. Ultimately, there are holes and it was quite long for what it was. It sort of fizzles out in the middle somewhere. She went somewhere unusual with it, but that part wasn't as well executed as the beginning.

Recommended for people that like creepy horror stories that focus on the worst parts of human nature.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I loved the first seventy percent of the novel, but the ending felt very separate to the story and left me feeling confused. I did like the history of the fictional town and the worldbuilding. However, when the story diverged from the present into the past and back again, the timeline had me a little confused. That being said, I would read more from this author, and the idea behind this story was very unique,

Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley

In the small town of Curdle Creek, Osira Turner awaits anther Moving On day. Who has received the most nominations? Who will be Moving On?

In this isolated town, almost all of the residents are loyal to its ominous rules, traditions, and regulations. But a few have fled, including Osira’s children and brother. Presumably, they’ve escaped; Osira has not heard from them in years, but it is possible they did not survive their escape attempt . . . she has no way to know. Osira struggles a bit with her beliefs; she is not her manipulative mother’s favorite, perhaps because the town blames her in part for her children and brother escaping Curdle Creek.

Mother Opal, the Head Charter Mother, is the one who oversees everything in the little town; she decides the fate of the chosen ones. What will she decide? And how will it affect Osira?

=========

With its sinister undertones and mysterious rituals, “Curdle Creek” pulls in readers who enjoy dystopian tales. Strong world-building brings the town to life, but the characters . . . other than the well-drawn Osira . . . are less defined.

More of a mystery than a chilling horror tale, the telling of this tale takes some surprising turns that keep readers guessing. However, several intriguing points remain unexplained: most importantly, how Curdle Creek became captive to these nightmarish rituals. Readers know exactly what the rituals are, but the reasons behind them remain elusive.

Osira’s time-travels take the story in an unexpected direction, but with its sudden and abrupt denouement, readers are left wondering. Perhaps, in its truest sense, “Curdle Creek” is meant as a warning against embracing the “this is the way things have always been done” mindset.

I received a free copy of this book from Henry Holt & Company / Henry Holt and Co. and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
#CurdleCreek #NetGalley

This book was just downright creepy. It knew just how to get under my skin. I never thought I'd say this, but this book made me feel claustrophobic?! The storytelling was just amazing though at first I kind of struggled with the writing style. The premise and the content was simply fascinating. I can't wait to read more from this author!

Sadly, not a match for me, though the premise seemed so promising. For me, this read like a fever dream... it's intriguing, but sometimes hard to follow and the plot always seemed to jig when I wanted it to jag. Also, it's more mysterious than scary (which seemed like bad marketing with that cover and title.)

The book draws you in with strange rituals undertaken in the town of Curdle Creek to "keep things in balance," but we hear more about these rituals than live through them. The first chapter discusses all of them obliquely and whet's your interest, but when in other books you'd shift to seeing these things play out, it was mostly followed by more talk. (I'm still not sure what the "Warding Off" actually IS.)

Perhaps this is a problem with narrative lens. I really liked Osira and wanted to know more about her, but much of the ritual action effects a family member, not her directly. This particularly is true of the "Moving On" scene.) The rest of the characters in the book don't seem nearly as fleshed out as Osira. I have no idea why her sisters are so creepy. I have no idea why her friends treated her that way. Most importantly I have no idea how this community became so extreme. That frustrated me.

This wasn't helped by the fact that the book takes a huge left turn about 2/3 of the way through. Since I was already having a hard time staying engaged, this shift made that problem worse. I finished the book (which has an abrupt cliffhanger--also not my fav) but overall it just didn't land for me, however I'm sure it'll be a match for someone else.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.