The Monster of Elendhaven checks all the boxes for a satisfying horror story, but there’s still something missing

The Monster of Elendhaven has everything horror fans could ask for leading up to Halloween, but it still falls short when it comes to reasons to truly get invested in the story.

It’s that time of year again. With October just a few days away, plenty of readers are searching for horror and thriller novels to add to their TBR piles, and Jennifer Giesbrecht’s The Monster of Elendhaven certainly makes for a good story to read with Halloween approaching. Giesbrecht’s novella checks all the boxes when it comes to a satisfying horror tale, but unfortunately, it does still manage to feel like something is missing within its pages.

Set in the incredibly atmospheric city of Elendhaven, The Monster of Elendhaven follows a monster and a magician as they enact the latter’s dastardly plan to spread the plague upon those who have wronged his home and his family. The monster, Johann, acts as a servant for the majority of the novel, although it’s clear that there’s something more dangerous lurking beneath the surface, even if he does usually abide by Florian’s many plans and rules.

The relationship between the two main characters is the focal point of the novella, and as it evolves, it becomes increasingly apparent that there’s something deeper and more disturbing at play between the two of them. It’s hard to tear your eyes away from their interactions, and the reveals about Florian’s backstory become more and more intriguing as the book continues.

Unfortunately, despite their twisted relationship, the characters are also, ultimately, where this novella fails to hit the mark. Although the two creatures have an end goal in mind — and outwardly express their motivations on multiple occasions — it’s difficult to truly put yourself inside their heads and understand them. Unlikeable characters can make for great storytelling when there’s something to grab onto, but it’s hard to invest yourself in Johann’s and Florian’s plights when you can’t relate to them much at all.

And given that the supporting cast isn’t much more likeable, it’s not even like you’ll find yourself rooting against Florian and Johann. Instead, the outcome falls somewhere in the middle — leaving the reader simultaneously mesmerized by all the bizarre event series happening and questioning what they’re getting out of the experience.

Still, that missing element doesn’t mean The Monster of Elendhaven isn’t worth your time at all. With its short size and gruesome moments, it’s definitely a great way to kickstart the Halloween season. You just may find yourself craving some more horror after the fact — and hey, who’s stopping you from picking some up?

Will you be picking up The Monster of Elendhaven this fall? Tell us in the comments section!