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Crescentville Haunting
Determined to pass junior year, Logan won’t let Henry distract him—much. Logan’s focusing on all things human, which means his swoony vampire ex-boyfriend will have to file his own fangs for a change. When he goes to the school bonfire and runs into Henry, wandering into the woods seems like a great escape. Until he’s bitten by a wicked Crone with some twisted magical munchies.
Logan is certain his ex-free human future is done when he’s dragged off to a scientific institution for study. There, he’s presented with an opportunity to keep his life, family, and future. All he has to do is stick to human ideology, since all things paranormal are illegal. But complications arise when the Crone begins to haunt him and Logan realizes that if he wants to get his life back, he has to navigate his lingering feelings for Henry.
With the Crone set on devouring him and the institution ready to obliterate him for any missteps, Logan must decide between pursuing the human future his family wants—one that he thought he wanted too—or the chance to embrace Henry, even if the world isn’t ready.
Logan is certain his ex-free human future is done when he’s dragged off to a scientific institution for study. There, he’s presented with an opportunity to keep his life, family, and future. All he has to do is stick to human ideology, since all things paranormal are illegal. But complications arise when the Crone begins to haunt him and Logan realizes that if he wants to get his life back, he has to navigate his lingering feelings for Henry.
With the Crone set on devouring him and the institution ready to obliterate him for any missteps, Logan must decide between pursuing the human future his family wants—one that he thought he wanted too—or the chance to embrace Henry, even if the world isn’t ready.
- GenresFantasyYoung AdultQueer
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 27, 2023
About the author
M.N. Bennet
1 book9 followersM.N. Bennet is a high school teacher, writer, and reader. He lives in the Midwest, still adjusting to the cold after being born and raised in the South.
He enjoys writing paranormal and fantasy stories with huge worlds (sometimes too big), loveable romances (with so much angst and banter), and Happily Ever Afters (once he’s dragged his characters through some emotional turmoil).
When he’s not balancing classes, writing, or reading, he can be found binge watching anime or replaying Dragon Age II for the millionth time.
He enjoys writing paranormal and fantasy stories with huge worlds (sometimes too big), loveable romances (with so much angst and banter), and Happily Ever Afters (once he’s dragged his characters through some emotional turmoil).
When he’s not balancing classes, writing, or reading, he can be found binge watching anime or replaying Dragon Age II for the millionth time.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 1, 2023
*I received an ecopy of this book via BookSirens. This has not influenced my review.*
Action, danger, supernaturals, a bit of romance, and, most importantly, a teenager finding himself and figuring out what he wants in life.
This felt surprisingly grounded, at least, as much as a story about supernaturals can be. A lot of the story took place within the facility where Logan was staying during the program he was forced into. (In case anyone is worried, there's not a bunch of medical stuff. It's basically just occasional blood drawing and group therapy.) And while he was there, I got to know Logan and understand what was going on his mind and how he was growing over the course of the story. It's great to have some stories, especially in YA, that are more about personal growth. And it felt really natural.
And although I didn't get to see as much time between Logan and Henry as I would normally like in a romance, because of the whole "in the facility for a while" thing, I still saw enough to know their relationship was sweet! They only broke up because Logan was worried about the danger of being entrenched within the supernatural world, so there were still feelings between them. Henry was always trying to protect and help Logan, and Logan was, well, trying to do the same for Henry, but in the sense of protecting him from the prejudice against vampires and other Vices.
As I said, there was also some action and danger, magical fights with witches and other paranormal beings and government agents.
This was a unique supernatural/magic system. Different types of supes, but also sort of classifications of them (Vices, Sins, Hauntings). The reader gets to meet various types with different abilities throughout the book whom Logan is friends with or meets in the program, which is fun. I always love supernaturals, especially less common ones. I actually would've liked some info dumping because it was confusing at the start, and there are still some things I'm not sure about, but I think I mostly got it by the end.
Overall, the romance was sweet, the magic and action were fun, the character growth was great, and I enjoyed this supernatural-filled story!
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes YA paranormal, unique supernatural lore, lots of supernaturals, a bit of second chance romance, and teens figuring out their way in life.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Action, danger, supernaturals, a bit of romance, and, most importantly, a teenager finding himself and figuring out what he wants in life.
This felt surprisingly grounded, at least, as much as a story about supernaturals can be. A lot of the story took place within the facility where Logan was staying during the program he was forced into. (In case anyone is worried, there's not a bunch of medical stuff. It's basically just occasional blood drawing and group therapy.) And while he was there, I got to know Logan and understand what was going on his mind and how he was growing over the course of the story. It's great to have some stories, especially in YA, that are more about personal growth. And it felt really natural.
And although I didn't get to see as much time between Logan and Henry as I would normally like in a romance, because of the whole "in the facility for a while" thing, I still saw enough to know their relationship was sweet! They only broke up because Logan was worried about the danger of being entrenched within the supernatural world, so there were still feelings between them. Henry was always trying to protect and help Logan, and Logan was, well, trying to do the same for Henry, but in the sense of protecting him from the prejudice against vampires and other Vices.
As I said, there was also some action and danger, magical fights with witches and other paranormal beings and government agents.
This was a unique supernatural/magic system. Different types of supes, but also sort of classifications of them (Vices, Sins, Hauntings). The reader gets to meet various types with different abilities throughout the book whom Logan is friends with or meets in the program, which is fun. I always love supernaturals, especially less common ones. I actually would've liked some info dumping because it was confusing at the start, and there are still some things I'm not sure about, but I think I mostly got it by the end.
Overall, the romance was sweet, the magic and action were fun, the character growth was great, and I enjoyed this supernatural-filled story!
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes YA paranormal, unique supernatural lore, lots of supernaturals, a bit of second chance romance, and teens figuring out their way in life.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
February 27, 2023
Crescentville Haunting, by M.N. Bennet
adventurous, funny, mysterious. medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I received this arc for free through Book Sirens. That doesn’t affect any review or opinion of mine.
This book was so fun! Bennet’s world building is amazing. Crescentville felt like a place I was visiting, I felt like I was really there. I sure hope he writes more in this universe, by the way! I’d love to see it extended, more fleshed out about the Covenant and the SPU and various other paranormal groups.
Henry is my precious baby. I want a book all about him and his family, especially Tricia. Logan was a very 3D character with a strong, individual voice. Don’t go into this expecting a romance. I would have preferred more Logan + Henry scenes, but I understand that this isn’t romance as much as it’s an adventure/ mystery/ thriller.
I thought I had figured out the mystery early on in the book, and was very pleasantly surprised when there was a twist I didn’t expect! I’d say this is was definitely worth the read. I enjoyed it a lot and I’m giving it 4/5 stars, with plans to read any sequel that may be forthcoming (I hope!).
I had a bit of a slump during the period when Logan was in the facility. The story didn't move far and the characters didn't grow much at this time. This is a trope I regularly dislike, so it's not a surprise that I struggled with it. If I hadn't had that bump in the reading, I would happily give this book 5 stars!
adventurous, funny, mysterious. medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I received this arc for free through Book Sirens. That doesn’t affect any review or opinion of mine.
This book was so fun! Bennet’s world building is amazing. Crescentville felt like a place I was visiting, I felt like I was really there. I sure hope he writes more in this universe, by the way! I’d love to see it extended, more fleshed out about the Covenant and the SPU and various other paranormal groups.
Henry is my precious baby. I want a book all about him and his family, especially Tricia. Logan was a very 3D character with a strong, individual voice. Don’t go into this expecting a romance. I would have preferred more Logan + Henry scenes, but I understand that this isn’t romance as much as it’s an adventure/ mystery/ thriller.
I thought I had figured out the mystery early on in the book, and was very pleasantly surprised when there was a twist I didn’t expect! I’d say this is was definitely worth the read. I enjoyed it a lot and I’m giving it 4/5 stars, with plans to read any sequel that may be forthcoming (I hope!).
I had a bit of a slump during the period when Logan was in the facility. The story didn't move far and the characters didn't grow much at this time. This is a trope I regularly dislike, so it's not a surprise that I struggled with it. If I hadn't had that bump in the reading, I would happily give this book 5 stars!
January 11, 2023
This book is a paranormal romance with vampires. The book was well paced, and an enjoyable read. The romance is swoon worthy!!
I loved meeting Logan and Henry so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved meeting Logan and Henry so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2023
Ahhh, I loved this!! The characters have so much personality, the plot is engaging, and the writing is smooth.
Paranormal romance is one of my favorite genres, and add the tension that the MC and his love interest just broke up before the story began just adds to this story’s angsty appeal!
Plus, the disclaimer at the beginning was very thoughtful and appreciated. I highly recommend this book!
Paranormal romance is one of my favorite genres, and add the tension that the MC and his love interest just broke up before the story began just adds to this story’s angsty appeal!
Plus, the disclaimer at the beginning was very thoughtful and appreciated. I highly recommend this book!
February 28, 2023
***Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy of the book. My review contains my honest thoughts about my reading experience.***
This was such a fun read. It had lovable characters, inventive world-building, and a compelling coming-of-age story. The writing was easy to read, and the pacing was steady throughout the story. I never felt bored and read the entire thing in three sittings because I always wanted to see what would happen next. I really enjoyed the author's ability to bring all the action to life. There were moments that had me cringing in disgust and others that left me with chills.
The world-building was probably my favorite thing about the novel. It took all the usual supernatural creatures and made them into something new, while also maintaining a feeling of familiarity. The classification system was interesting, and I liked getting to know each of the different types of creatures. I honestly wanted even more information about the history of the Vices, Sins, and the Crone, but it probably would have bogged the story down too much. Maybe one day we'll get an appendix or a compendium of some sort with all the different creatures and their histories? I'd totally be down to read it!
I was honestly a bit surprised by the trajectory of the plot. The book blurb made it sound like the romance was integral to the story, but it seemed like more of an afterthought. Logan and Henry spent very little time together, and there were times when Henry was avoidant of Logan that didn't really make sense to me. Don't get me wrong... I liked the two of them together. I just wish it had been developed a little more with a bit more page time for the romance. That being said, I enjoyed reading Logan's coming-of-age story and his struggle to figure out his identity and how to put his life back together after his vision of himself and his future drastically changed. I also loved how the book was incredibly queer without making queerness the explicit subject of the book. The queer themes were subsumed under the facade of the supernatural, and it allowed for a critique of oppressive systems and the exploration of potentially traumatic content (conversion therapy, negative family reactions) in a way that was both entertaining and emotionally resonant without being in your face about the real life trauma of it all. It was great escapism, but I also think many queer individuals will see a piece of themselves in the story.
I loved the characters so much. Poor Logan was just trying to get his life back on track, but everything seemed to be against him. I felt so sorry for him, but I was also inspired by his determination to make a future for himself despite all the horrible things happening to him. Henry was an absolute sweetheart who just wanted to save everyone. I wish there had been a bit more of him in the book, but I loved the optimistic snark we did get. The rest of the cast was great too, especially Esteban the himbo troll. He lit up every scene he graced with his presence. The villain, the Crone, was disturbingly evil and quite grotesque, but it did feel a little one note, and her identity was very predictable. This was one area where I wished there had been some more history and a bit more context for her actions. However, she seemed to suggest a history with the doctor and police, or other oppressive forces like them. So, I am curious to see if she was turned into the monster by so many people making her out to be one...
All in all, if you are looking for a queer supernatural story with fascinating world-building, emotional depth, a bi male main character, and a sunshine vampire love interest who wants to save the world, this story is for you. I definitely recommend it. Therefore, I rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars!
See more of my reviews and other bookish content on my blog.
This was such a fun read. It had lovable characters, inventive world-building, and a compelling coming-of-age story. The writing was easy to read, and the pacing was steady throughout the story. I never felt bored and read the entire thing in three sittings because I always wanted to see what would happen next. I really enjoyed the author's ability to bring all the action to life. There were moments that had me cringing in disgust and others that left me with chills.
The world-building was probably my favorite thing about the novel. It took all the usual supernatural creatures and made them into something new, while also maintaining a feeling of familiarity. The classification system was interesting, and I liked getting to know each of the different types of creatures. I honestly wanted even more information about the history of the Vices, Sins, and the Crone, but it probably would have bogged the story down too much. Maybe one day we'll get an appendix or a compendium of some sort with all the different creatures and their histories? I'd totally be down to read it!
I was honestly a bit surprised by the trajectory of the plot. The book blurb made it sound like the romance was integral to the story, but it seemed like more of an afterthought. Logan and Henry spent very little time together, and there were times when Henry was avoidant of Logan that didn't really make sense to me. Don't get me wrong... I liked the two of them together. I just wish it had been developed a little more with a bit more page time for the romance. That being said, I enjoyed reading Logan's coming-of-age story and his struggle to figure out his identity and how to put his life back together after his vision of himself and his future drastically changed. I also loved how the book was incredibly queer without making queerness the explicit subject of the book. The queer themes were subsumed under the facade of the supernatural, and it allowed for a critique of oppressive systems and the exploration of potentially traumatic content (conversion therapy, negative family reactions) in a way that was both entertaining and emotionally resonant without being in your face about the real life trauma of it all. It was great escapism, but I also think many queer individuals will see a piece of themselves in the story.
I loved the characters so much. Poor Logan was just trying to get his life back on track, but everything seemed to be against him. I felt so sorry for him, but I was also inspired by his determination to make a future for himself despite all the horrible things happening to him. Henry was an absolute sweetheart who just wanted to save everyone. I wish there had been a bit more of him in the book, but I loved the optimistic snark we did get. The rest of the cast was great too, especially Esteban the himbo troll. He lit up every scene he graced with his presence. The villain, the Crone, was disturbingly evil and quite grotesque, but it did feel a little one note, and her identity was very predictable. This was one area where I wished there had been some more history and a bit more context for her actions. However, she seemed to suggest a history with the doctor and police, or other oppressive forces like them. So, I am curious to see if she was turned into the monster by so many people making her out to be one...
All in all, if you are looking for a queer supernatural story with fascinating world-building, emotional depth, a bi male main character, and a sunshine vampire love interest who wants to save the world, this story is for you. I definitely recommend it. Therefore, I rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars!
See more of my reviews and other bookish content on my blog.
January 5, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of Crescentville Haunting for free and am under no obligation to leave a review. I would love to thank the team at Booksirens and the author M.N Bennet for providing the copy.
This book follows Logan as he is sentenced to a government-controlled facility after being bitten by the crone. Whilst inside, Logan discovers that not everything is the way that it’s presented in his town before agreeing to take part in clinical trials, before finally leaving and living his life.
I liked the way that Logan’s character was written because he was written like an actual teenager. He spoke like one and acted like one, especially in relation to his frustrations about his mother and father. All of the characters felt dynamic and added to the story without becoming plot devices, and there was plenty of untapped potential, which I’m hoping is expanded upon by Bennet in further books in this universe.
The writing style was beautifully done with the right mix of pacing and character development and worldbuilding, and above all the world felt compelling with me flipping through the pages until late in the night, until my eyes gave up. There were a few moments when I had to go back and be like what happened because I was just so shocked. Although I predicted one of the twists, I couldn’t help but find myself thoroughly enjoying this.
This was the first book that I have read by Bennet, and I am going to pick up his next book. I need more of this beautiful world and hope for an expansion on Henry and Logan’s relationship or a book about Ms Goto! Loved! Loved! Loved!
4 stars
(January 3rd 2023 – January 4th 2023)
This book follows Logan as he is sentenced to a government-controlled facility after being bitten by the crone. Whilst inside, Logan discovers that not everything is the way that it’s presented in his town before agreeing to take part in clinical trials, before finally leaving and living his life.
I liked the way that Logan’s character was written because he was written like an actual teenager. He spoke like one and acted like one, especially in relation to his frustrations about his mother and father. All of the characters felt dynamic and added to the story without becoming plot devices, and there was plenty of untapped potential, which I’m hoping is expanded upon by Bennet in further books in this universe.
The writing style was beautifully done with the right mix of pacing and character development and worldbuilding, and above all the world felt compelling with me flipping through the pages until late in the night, until my eyes gave up. There were a few moments when I had to go back and be like what happened because I was just so shocked. Although I predicted one of the twists, I couldn’t help but find myself thoroughly enjoying this.
This was the first book that I have read by Bennet, and I am going to pick up his next book. I need more of this beautiful world and hope for an expansion on Henry and Logan’s relationship or a book about Ms Goto! Loved! Loved! Loved!
4 stars
(January 3rd 2023 – January 4th 2023)
February 26, 2023
Trigger warnings for Crescentville Haunting include: descriptions of depression, anxiety, and paranoia. Depictions of blood and blood loss are on the page. As well as profanity and violence.
☆
☆
I picked this one up on January 19, and it's taken me over a month to even get round to reading it. Not because of the book or the content, just because I had a lot of other things on my TBR I wanted to get to.
~
I might have picked it up at a bad time. It might be that I just can't get into it properly. Or I just don't like this flavour of paranormal fantasy book. But whatever the reason, I got to 25% and couldn't get any further into it. I'm sure it's a great book for the right person, but that doesn't appear to be me.
~
That being said, the characters and the paranormal aspects are interesting and not something I've come across before. Vampires, witches and magic are fairly standard for paranormal fantasy, but there are elements within this book that aren't. Like the fact that all the paranormal elements are referred to as Vices, and that there are halfbreeds (the best way I can really describe it).
~
What I managed to read was enjoyable, and the characters were interesting enough, but it took me over a month to even get to the point I did, so I don't think it's for me unfortunately.
•
Thank you to BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
☆
☆
I picked this one up on January 19, and it's taken me over a month to even get round to reading it. Not because of the book or the content, just because I had a lot of other things on my TBR I wanted to get to.
~
I might have picked it up at a bad time. It might be that I just can't get into it properly. Or I just don't like this flavour of paranormal fantasy book. But whatever the reason, I got to 25% and couldn't get any further into it. I'm sure it's a great book for the right person, but that doesn't appear to be me.
~
That being said, the characters and the paranormal aspects are interesting and not something I've come across before. Vampires, witches and magic are fairly standard for paranormal fantasy, but there are elements within this book that aren't. Like the fact that all the paranormal elements are referred to as Vices, and that there are halfbreeds (the best way I can really describe it).
~
What I managed to read was enjoyable, and the characters were interesting enough, but it took me over a month to even get to the point I did, so I don't think it's for me unfortunately.
•
Thank you to BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2023
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
What a fun read! I loved the characters most of all (I just wanted all the good things for Logan--the guy's had it rough) and Henry always stole whatever scene he was in (although I did expect more of him in the story). The buddies Logan makes after being bitten by the Crone were also really good and I was hoping for more of them!
As a whole, I liked how the story focused on Logan's journey to understand himself and what he wants most of all. He's a confused guy just trying his best to have his normal life back and the steps he goes through to try to get it back is equal parts heartbreaking (because even you as the reader knows it won't happen) and equal parts uplifting because Logan is learning as he goes.
I'm really glad I got to read this! Writing was fun, world building intriguing, the pacing kept me going, and I can't wait to see what else Bennet releases afterward.
What a fun read! I loved the characters most of all (I just wanted all the good things for Logan--the guy's had it rough) and Henry always stole whatever scene he was in (although I did expect more of him in the story). The buddies Logan makes after being bitten by the Crone were also really good and I was hoping for more of them!
As a whole, I liked how the story focused on Logan's journey to understand himself and what he wants most of all. He's a confused guy just trying his best to have his normal life back and the steps he goes through to try to get it back is equal parts heartbreaking (because even you as the reader knows it won't happen) and equal parts uplifting because Logan is learning as he goes.
I'm really glad I got to read this! Writing was fun, world building intriguing, the pacing kept me going, and I can't wait to see what else Bennet releases afterward.
January 21, 2023
Crescentville Haunting is such a fun read! Logan and Henry have great—sometimes conflicting—personalities. They both really stand out and shine in their own ways. The banter that happens between them made for a very believable and realistic (currently separated) couple. The array of paranormal characters added a lot to the world of Crescentville while the story of The Crone and the scientific institute gives the story plenty of action and tension.
While there was plenty of humor to this book, there was also a subtle theme of tolerance and accepting people for who they are which I really appreciated. Overall, a great book!
While there was plenty of humor to this book, there was also a subtle theme of tolerance and accepting people for who they are which I really appreciated. Overall, a great book!
March 5, 2023
I loved this book. The story was very unique and nothing like anything I have read before. I thought there was amazing representation for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The writing was amazing - I was gripped by the second chapter and I couldn’t put it down. I was kept guessing until the last page. Also, the characters all had very interesting and unique personalities.
I would definitely recommend this book as it was so interesting and I really hope many more people get to read this book as I enjoyed it so much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The writing was amazing - I was gripped by the second chapter and I couldn’t put it down. I was kept guessing until the last page. Also, the characters all had very interesting and unique personalities.
I would definitely recommend this book as it was so interesting and I really hope many more people get to read this book as I enjoyed it so much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 3, 2023
I really enjoyed getting to know Logan and Henry, I enjoyed getting to know them and the paranormal romance. It was really well written by M. N. Bennet and had what I was looking for in this type of book. It was what I was hoping for and glad I got to read this.
“Apologies,” he said. “How clumsy of me.” “It’s fine.” I pressed my other foot over the bloody slipper, smooshing my foot to blot the scent, which did nothing to remove it from the air. “Do you know what makes Saints so unique?”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Apologies,” he said. “How clumsy of me.” “It’s fine.” I pressed my other foot over the bloody slipper, smooshing my foot to blot the scent, which did nothing to remove it from the air. “Do you know what makes Saints so unique?”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2023
If you are in for a fun read with a story that will keep you up turning the pages I highly recommend checking this one out. It reads a little more middle grade than young adult but I didn’t find that as a bad thing. It is fun and entertaining, everything a book should be. In the end I loved the message about accepting yourself no matter what, and the diverse cast of characters that helped show that. I would read more from this author and look forward to it!
March 3, 2023
I received this product for free in return for providing an honest and unbiased review. I received no other compensation. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Logan just wants a safe, normal, drama-free junior year, and that means avoiding his vampire ex, Henry, at all costs. Which is easier said than done. Logan may be shy and awkward, but Henry is his complete opposite: confident, outgoing, and suave. When his best friend Kiera (a phantom) drags him to a bonfire party that’s supposed to help Logan relax, he discovers that trouble has a way of following him. Not only is Henry there, but Logan is attacked (for the second time since he first started dating Henry) by a powerful creature, this time a monstrous witch known as the “Crone.” After sustaining a bite from the Crone, Henry’s life changes forever.
Henry and Kiera are known as Vices, a group of monsters including phantoms, witches, vampires, trolls, sirens, and werewolves that are forced to live in the shadows due to public fear and draconian laws. The Crone is a sin, a powerful Vice that feeds on other Vices and can turn humans into undead monstrosities called Hauntings (think zombies and ghouls) with a single bite. After Henry’s attack he’s whisked away by SPU agents (the special police force in charge of catching and neutralizing Sins) to a secure facility designed to treat Hauntings, but to everyone’s surprise he doesn’t transform into a Haunting. It turns out Henry is a rare form of Vice, known as a Viceling, more human than Vice. The lore of Crescentville Haunting can get confusing in places, and there’s a lot of backstory. So much so that I actually checked to see if there was a prequel I had missed. But it’s no worse that any other fantasy novel with rich world building. If you can remember the rules of Quidditch, you can remember the magical classification system Bennet has created.
The characters are relatable and their voices sound authentic. The romance is steamy without being explicit and felt age appropriate for younger teens. It should be noted that while the book contains a paranormal romance, it’s not the central theme of the story. Instead, we focus on Logan’s struggles with his new identity and trying to fit into a human-centric world-- an analogy for trying to fit into a heteronormative society when you’re LGBTQIA+. In Monsters in the closet: Homosexuality and the Horror Film Harry M. Benshoff writes “monster is to ‘normality’ as homosexual is to heterosexual.” LGBTQIA+ scholars have long equated queerness with fictional monsters and stories like Crescentville Haunting reclaim the “monstrous queer.” In Bennett’s story, the “homosexual vampire” is the hero rather than the villain, with the humans representing an oppressive heteronormative society and the facility attempting to “cure” Logan of his monstrousness a metaphor for conversion therapy. In addition to romance, the book also has plenty of horror, violence, and suspense, all courtesy of the Crone who continues to haunt Logan after the initial attack.
Overall, this was a fun read with a good world building, a cute relationship, and teens who actually sounded and acted like teens.
Logan just wants a safe, normal, drama-free junior year, and that means avoiding his vampire ex, Henry, at all costs. Which is easier said than done. Logan may be shy and awkward, but Henry is his complete opposite: confident, outgoing, and suave. When his best friend Kiera (a phantom) drags him to a bonfire party that’s supposed to help Logan relax, he discovers that trouble has a way of following him. Not only is Henry there, but Logan is attacked (for the second time since he first started dating Henry) by a powerful creature, this time a monstrous witch known as the “Crone.” After sustaining a bite from the Crone, Henry’s life changes forever.
Henry and Kiera are known as Vices, a group of monsters including phantoms, witches, vampires, trolls, sirens, and werewolves that are forced to live in the shadows due to public fear and draconian laws. The Crone is a sin, a powerful Vice that feeds on other Vices and can turn humans into undead monstrosities called Hauntings (think zombies and ghouls) with a single bite. After Henry’s attack he’s whisked away by SPU agents (the special police force in charge of catching and neutralizing Sins) to a secure facility designed to treat Hauntings, but to everyone’s surprise he doesn’t transform into a Haunting. It turns out Henry is a rare form of Vice, known as a Viceling, more human than Vice. The lore of Crescentville Haunting can get confusing in places, and there’s a lot of backstory. So much so that I actually checked to see if there was a prequel I had missed. But it’s no worse that any other fantasy novel with rich world building. If you can remember the rules of Quidditch, you can remember the magical classification system Bennet has created.
The characters are relatable and their voices sound authentic. The romance is steamy without being explicit and felt age appropriate for younger teens. It should be noted that while the book contains a paranormal romance, it’s not the central theme of the story. Instead, we focus on Logan’s struggles with his new identity and trying to fit into a human-centric world-- an analogy for trying to fit into a heteronormative society when you’re LGBTQIA+. In Monsters in the closet: Homosexuality and the Horror Film Harry M. Benshoff writes “monster is to ‘normality’ as homosexual is to heterosexual.” LGBTQIA+ scholars have long equated queerness with fictional monsters and stories like Crescentville Haunting reclaim the “monstrous queer.” In Bennett’s story, the “homosexual vampire” is the hero rather than the villain, with the humans representing an oppressive heteronormative society and the facility attempting to “cure” Logan of his monstrousness a metaphor for conversion therapy. In addition to romance, the book also has plenty of horror, violence, and suspense, all courtesy of the Crone who continues to haunt Logan after the initial attack.
Overall, this was a fun read with a good world building, a cute relationship, and teens who actually sounded and acted like teens.
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