8/12/2024 — While the weather heats up, I’m already dreaming of fall. Cool mornings, a steaming cup of tea, and—of course—reading while cozy in a blanket. We’re getting closer!
I thought it was about time to spotlight one of my go-to authors, and she just so happens to write spooky books that are perfect for fall (or those dreaming of fall). Erin A. Craig writes young adult fairy tale retellings. Her books are so easy to fall into and have such rich world-building. On more than one occasion, I’ve read a book of hers in a single day! I’ll write some non spoiler reviews/thoughts of her three published books below!
House of Salt and Sorrows was my first Erin A. Craig book, and I was hooked. This 12 dancing princesses retelling takes place in a moody, nautical setting. The main character is surrounded by her many sisters… and by many mysterious deaths. I’m not always a fan of mysteries (due to a large lack of patience), but this book kept me on the edge of my seat and still managed to wrap everything up by the end. I love a good standalone with a bit of intrigue, horror, and romance! I rate this book 3.5 out of 5 on my (completely made up) creepy/spooky scale.
Now I know that I just said House of Salt and Sorrows was a standalone, but technically it has a companion book. House of Roots and Ruin takes place years after the first book and follows another character, the youngest sister. You don’t need to read the first book to understand this story, but I think it would be helpful! I thought it was great that I had some of the world-building from Craig’s first book when I dove into this one. I was surprised and delighted when this book had us jump into a new setting. Goodbye moody nautical! Cue the flowers, glitz, and elegant romance aesthetics of House of Roots and Ruin. Well, plus some hidden, scary pieces that don’t quite fit in…
Unlike the first book, this book does leave some strings hanging. That is, you’ll still have questions at the end. I check Craig’s website often, but there is still no book announced following House of Roots and Ruin. I rate this book 4 out of 5 on my creepy/spooky scale.
Small Favors is not connected to Craig’s other books. The story takes place in a cottagecore classic village where odd things start occurring and the threat of terrifying creatures casts a shadow over their quaint, simple life. I don’t know if it is confirmed, but I felt that Small Favors had the feeling of a Rumpelstiltskin fairy tale retelling. This book is a standalone with no cliffhangers. Perfect for reading out in the park or forest… if you dare. I rate this book 2 out of 5 on my creepy/spooky scale.
Craig has two more books in the works, and one of them is being released this September—woohoo! I’ll add the link to her website here so you can check out the upcoming stories. I hope you all enjoy her dark, twisty fairy tales as much as I do!
Much love and happy reading,
Gail ❤
P.S. - Send a message to let me know how you liked the books after you read them!
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