A review by aahrobot
Don't Let the Forest In by C.G. Drews

dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Don't ask me if I'm okay because the answer will be no. I cannot express how much ache I feel in my chest after finishing this book. It was slow and painful, yet so fast and all consuming. I love beautiful and lyrical writing like this and I applaud C.G. Drews for their work. 

One part that hurt me instantly was

when Andrew was looking for Dove on Halloween. As soon as they were in the forest together, I just knew. I said aloud to myself, "She's dead." before we ever reached the flashback chapter, before we even caught up with Thomas.

I think not knowing the truth is a good way to end books like this. The yearning to know and not know is one of my favorite feelings. Younger me would have held this book so tight, highlighting every little word and making notes in the margins. Older me feels the same (but I listened to the book, so no highlighting for me). Angst, grief, confusion, absolute ache - that's what this book will give you.