This book broke me and put me back together again. I had to sit with my thoughts for a few hours after reading

Another wild ride from CG Drew’s that scratched an itch I didn’t know I had. If you loved Don’t Let the Forest In the vibes from this book are quite similar and would highly recommend this one as well.

I won’t summarize too much more than the GR blurb because I think going into this with as little info as possible made the experience better. If you like lush writing and creeping dread and anxiety coming off the page this is the book for you.

This book has a YA tag (likely due to the main characters being under 18, and flashbacks from their childhoods) but it didn’t read as YA to me, I wouldn’t let that put you off, if you only read adult books (much like myself) this could still be for you.

The plot twist had me yeeted off a cliff and eyes glued to the book once it hit.

I can’t personally speak for how the autism rep reads but it certainly is nice to get characters with more diverse backgrounds.

I’m obsessed with this book and CG Drews now and is definitely auto buy author for me. Not sure if this will be for you? Check out the author on TikTok (cgdrews) the videos they make are so spot on with the atmosphere of this book.

A huge thank you to the publisher/author and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for an honest review.

The writing in this book was utterly captivating; Drews masterfully wove the intricate language of the garden into every facet of the narrative, creating a lush tapestry of words that resonated deeply. There are certainly some content warnings regarding themes of abuse, and I regrettably glanced ahead too soon, which left me feeling unnecessarily sorrowful. However, I found myself truly enamored with the way the two main characters’ complex history unfolded, particularly in the latter half of the story.

Plant horror, my beloved genre, has never felt more alive than in this narrative. Hazelthorn captured my heart completely. This book was a breathtaking journey, and while it didn’t feature a heartbreakingly tragic ending, I found myself in tears by the time I reached the final page. The lyrical language was nothing short of stunning—atmospheric and vibrant, it enveloped me like a dense fog. The main characters were intricately woven, filled with layers of complexity and a simmering rage that was palpable. I can honestly say I have zero complaints, which is a rarity for me. The unsettling nature of the story was disturbingly beautiful.

The haunting forest intermingled with the world of a pompous, wealthy family and a boy who has been branded as broken crafted an extraordinary tale of monstrous hunger. Hazelthorn’s seething hatred towards the Lennox-Halls was a delight to witness. As always, Drews’ prose perfectly captured the eerie essence of the Hazelthorn estate, which was steeped in an ominous atmosphere. While there were moments where the language felt overly florid and indulgent—especially for a reclusive teenage boy—it ultimately served to enrich the haunting quality of the narrative. I eventually recognized that the lush, flowery language was an intentional choice, carefully constructed to fulfill a vital role within the story, extending beyond mere atmosphere. Although some sentiments felt repetitive at times, I welcomed this; they offered a glimpse into the labyrinthine thoughts spiraling through Evander’s mind.

I adored the book’s mystery and the intricate dynamics between the characters. While I did manage to predict some aspects of the plot, the overall unfolding of events remained elusive and engaging. Greed, resentment, and blood were woven into the very fabric of each relationship, underscoring the heart of the tale. One of the aspects I cherish about horror—regardless of its supernatural, paranormal, or fantastical elements—is the underlying truth that often, the most terrifying monsters are the people among us. This theme was beautifully explored in Hazelthorn, leaving me both unsettled and mesmerized.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
"Because sometimes the snarl, the insult, the teeth marks cut into the nearest person are so often a reflections of the busies you already wear."
***
Taken in as an orphan by a reclusive billionaire- Byron Lennox-Hall-, Evander is kept in a room deep within the sprawling mansion of Hazelthorn Manor. When Evander was 10, Bryon's grandson, Laurie, tried to murder him. Or that's what Evander's been told. Ever since, Evander has been a sickly thing. When Byron dies unexpected, Evander is determined to figure out how and why. But as his investigation continues, he unearths the deeply disturbing history of Hazelthorn Manor and his past with Laurie. Byron's last words to Evander were "don't go into the garden", but Evander just can't seem to help himself...
***
C.G. Drews is a poet. This book is an unsettling, bloody, and beautiful masterpiece. I devoured this book almost as deeply as Evander was devoured by Hazelthorn Manor. I have already ordered the Barnes & Noble exclusive edition because I cannot get enough of this book. Hazelthorn has suck it's roots so deep into my soul, that I don't think it will ever be uprooted.

This review posted to Tiktok & Goodreads.

thank you netgalley for giving me this digital arc and the chance to read this story

this is a story full of rot, anger, and magnetic obsession wrapped up in queer botanical horror.

The only life Evander has ever known is shattered by the death of his guardian and the invasion of the outside world as he feels he is losing control. This is only worsened by the return of Laurie, the boy who Evander only remembers as a close friend in childhood who had tried to kill him. But as Evander tries to unravel who had killed his guardian, more and more Evander is finding it harder to tell apart nightmares and his reality.

This story is heavily floral (aha) in its purple prose and I find that a positive to me, especially as the story nears its climax and Evander realizes what exactly he is. The story kept me trying to guess where the next turn would take and it really was fun when i was able to guess even if in not quite the correct way.

Also as an autistic person myself I actually really loved how Evander engaged with the world around him. Sometimes we truly do feel not human, completely shutting down when things become too much, and dissociate in such a matter.

A special shout out to this line specifically because I literally tossed my phone down on the bed and kicked my feet while hiding my face. Love me a good worshipful queer obsession

<i>"God was stronger than me when he made Adam and didn't fall in love with him."</i>

"God was stronger than me when he made Adam and didn't fall in love with him."

"I am worse without you."

Queer, neurodivergent, gothic, botanical horror with issues of identity, class, and toxic relationships told in beautiful lyrical prose.

I can't wait for the special editions of this book to collect on my shelves with Don't Let The Forest In!

Thank you to NetGalley for the digital ARC.

This was a bloody, dark, winding, violently descriptive, achillean horroromance of a murder mystery. Beautifully written and a delight to read.

This one just wasn't what I had expected. I went into it thinking it was as murder mystery at a spooky mansion and it just wasn't that at all. I personally didn't care for the way the autistic traits were used (I'm autistic myself). I didn't like the romance aspects and was not rooting them at all. The writing was flowery so I could see that appealing to people. The descriptions of the body horror and the weird plant stuff were interesting.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have read CG Drew's books before and I am happy to report that this book is wonderful! I was enraptured from the very start!

I swear, I’m not crying!
*Sobs uncontrollably*
But, I mean, if I was, it would be understandable. This is a C.G. Drews book, for heaven’s sake! Either you cry over these devastating pages or you’re heartless.
Anyway.
This book destroyed me.
And, god, I loved it.
Our plot centers around a young man named Evander, who has been struggling with a mysterious illness since his near-death when he was nine. Even worse? His death was the fault of the boy of his obsession, Laurie, and the grandson of Evander’s legal guardian.
Let’s pause and just soak this genius plotline in. We literally have gay obsessions and crazy near–death situations.
C.G. Drews, I swear, I love you!
Continuing.
Evander, locked away in his room and taught rigorously to be a “proper gentleman” suddenly finds his world upended when his guardian suddenly dies and leaves his fortune to him. Shocked and uncertain who he can trust, Evander must navigate his new reality alone, and also come to terms with his unrelenting obsession with Laurie and the strange tug that Hazelthorn’s garden has on him.
Woah.
Even better. We have gay, obsession, near death, suddenly rich, Victorian-esque boys, and now creepy gardens.
I’m a sucker for these plotlines, and was extremely satisfied with how they played out. Of course, I somewhat knew how everything would end, but that didn’t stop me from loving every second of it. Drews just knows how to pull you in with creepy imagery and flowery words.
And, of course, let’s not forget about Drews’ amazing characters and love stories. They’re just as romantic as they are devastating, and, at times, even slightly scary.
I was horrified of Evander and Laurie, yet I felt a fierce protection of them. Both struggling through their own abuse and disabilities, yet fighting for each other’s safety as hard as they could.
God. It made me want to cry in the best way possible.
So, in conclusion, this book is mentally damaging. I felt broken and torn in half, yet hopeful and happy for our characters at the same time.
Drews, you have my heart.

"I'd split my bones, I'd open my throat, I'd do anything to be near you and have even one second with my mouth against yours".

This is one of the most beautiful, most haunting things I have ever read. This story made me sad, made me angry, made me smile, made me laugh, made me cry.

CG Drew's writing is absolutely breath taking. The ability to capture the haunting, luscious, gothic setting. These complex, beautifully flawed characters. Just absolutely a work of art.

I thought Don't Let the Forest In was incredible, this book will stay with me forever.

Eternally grateful to the publisher & NetGalley for this ARC. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

thank you netgalley for the arc!

this was such a unique and fun read. unfortunately, i am still struggling with a slump and am not able to fully appreciate everything. this book has some nice prose and is objectively well written. there is also a lot of detail, imagery, and description which got a little redundant at times. the ending was actually my favorite part and had me zooming through, however, the beginning did drag a little bit for me, hence the 3 stars.

please send some immersive recs. help a struggling girl out here.

Grateful to the publication team for the chance to read this ARC!

I am honestly speechless over this book. Creeping gothic horror, fucked up, obsessive queer love, an utterly unique story, gorgeous prose, rotten mouth-full-of-dirt nightmares. C.G. Drews just has a way of grabbing me by the lapels and shaking me around. Don't Let the Forest In left me speechless, and somehow Drews managed to one-up it. Seriously, don't miss this one!

If you love plants, monsters, and mysteries, READ THIS BOOK!

Hazelthorn is an emotionally charged, queer story full of family politics, murder, and mayhem. Evander, our main character, has been sickly their entire life. Stemming from an accident/attempted murder (not joking lol) from their childhood, they have been sequestered for the majority of their life by their grandfather. However, Hazelthorn is an estate full of secrets.

This story is tragically beautiful. It is compared to We Have Always Lived in the Castle, and that comparison stands true. Evander is a complex hero, with more mysteries than answers sometimes. However, by following their gut, their innate sense of right and wrong guides them in a direction that both advances the plot (very quickly at times) and gives readers a powerful connection. Readers can sometimes expect to feel claustrophobic because of how relatable and realistic this story becomes.

The story itself is monstrous, which matches some of the plots within this story. Comparing real-life monsters to fictional monsters makes this novel horrendous. It is terrifying and gross, but also creepy and suspenseful. It is written well and CG Drews proves once again that you should be reading their books.

Check this out! You won't be disappointed.

Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley for the arc

If you liked don’t let the forest I. you will likely like Hazelthorn as well. The characters and relational dynamics are quite similar but the mystery added in the plot of Hazelthorn imo makes this the superior of the pair.

Hazelthorn is first and foremost a gothic tale and a mystery second.

Rot is the star of the story.

The romance is rotten, the characters are decaying and the setting is a corps not picked clean but purifying in a hot sun. (All complements)

The horror is at times quite effective but I would say it’s not really a focus, it’s more set dressing than the main effect, less genre and more setting.

TBH sometimes you need to have an honest conversation with your almost lover gardener boyfriend and also idk try a hazmat suit.

Perfect for fans of nbcs Hannibal and classic gothic literature

𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐟 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠

.

This was EASILY a 5 stars read for me!

I just love the way CG Drews writes! & this was my first time reading anything by them!
I will definitely be reading more of their works.

The movie that came to my mind when reading this book was Knives Out—with the whole family dysfunction, murder mystery, a fight for the inheritance after the passing of the head of the household... But with a supernatural element to it, with a hungry garden and living dead things.

The love between the two boys, the cruelty of the grandfather, the nurturing/protective role the garden took on for Evander, the multiple reveals towards the end, the greed & downfall of the rich family members... it was all just grotesque and beautiful and messy *chef's kiss*

I just wanna swallow this book whole. 😵‍💫

3.5 stars

“Their greed slips down their chins like saliva, and their eyes are black pools of lustful want”
This was my first book by C.G. Drews, and it was a weird, gothic ride that I really enjoyed. The prose is stunning—structured and lyrical, yet bizarre and hauntin. Drews has such a unique writing style that perfectly builds this eerie, gothic atmosphere.
I loved our main characters, Evander and Laurie. Their bond was intriguing and complex. I just wish we had gotten more detail about their shared past. It felt like there was so much emotional weight there, but it wasn’t explored as deeply as I hoped. I wanted to feel more of their history and connection as the story unfolded. I also wanted to understand why things happened the way they did between them
There were so many “Hah??” moments that kept me on my toes—twists, turns, and eerie reveals that made the story exciting, especially in the beginning. But honestly, some parts, in my opinion, just didn’t hit like I hoped.Still, I genuinely enjoyed the journey.
Note : Thank you Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for giving me this arc

This book devoured me whole and I’ve somehow lived to tell the tale. I think a lot of people may find it challenging to read: it’s gruesome, gory, and full of truly despicable characters who do unimaginable things. All of that was neither here nor there for me, but the depiction of Evander’s heavily-autistic-coded episodes and inability to fit in with other humans were both deeply, soul-shatteringly relatable and difficult for me to read.

But, ultimately, the journey depicted, the revelations revealed, the growth (so much growth!) achieved were all worth it. The pacing really picked up in the last third and I finished it very quickly for how slowly I started. The setting truly shines and is visceral in its vividness. I hated most of the characters not for how they were written (beautifully) but for how they acted (disgustingly). Their relationships are deeply messed up and maybe a little problematic, but then that totally fits the story and its takeaways.

All in all, I won’t hesitate to recommend this one when it’s out later in the year! Many thanks to the author and publisher for this ARC.

C.G. Drews does botanical horror so well! If you loved Don’t Let the Forest In, go ahead and read this one too. I don’t want to say too much and give away the plot twists, but C.G. Drews writes them splendidly. I thought I sensed something amiss or strange about our narrator, but I did not guess where this book was going. But all the clues were there when I looked back at the book which is so satisfying. It makes for entertaining rereads and books I can reread and continue discovering new things each time are my very favorite.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

There is something about this novel that feels like it is carving me from the inside out. Having grown up in New England, the setting felt so incredibly, eerily familiar. That fact is only bolstered by Drews’ incredible descriptive talent. (I don’t think that this qualifies as a spoiler, but there is a description of soured milk that will continue to stick with me and disturb me viscerally as someone who absolutely despises the smell of non-turned milk.) Their descriptions only heighten how real the Hazelthorn estate felt.

Evander, as a character, is somewhat familiar. As someone who is autistic and was made to mask in order to get through school, his rage and overall journey through this novel was incredibly healing. I’m not sure if a younger Sparrow would have read this book (I’m only recently getting into the horror genre), but, if this book had been available to them, they should have read it.

The twists, the turns, the horror, the romance, the introspection, the mystery, all of it is impeccable.

This novel is going to continue to live with me, Drews’ words acting like the garden that they had written about. I want to lay down in the dirt, weeds tangling in my hair, and just scream. Please go out and order a copy of this book, request a copy for your local library, gift this story to any horror-loving friends and family, etc.