On Goodreads, I’m proud to be a member of Horror Aficionados. Every month, members vote for two books to read, usually based on a theme. I don’t vote myself — I’m more than happy to let fate decide the winners — but I do my best to read each month’s selections (even if I’m often months or a full year behind). Being part of this community exposes me to a wider range of authors, many of whom I might never have discovered on my own.
Chuck Wendig was a new name to me until Black River Orchard won one of these polls. I went in blind — just how I like it. I’m one of those people who avoids movie trailers for fear of spoilers. I want the tease, not the whole plot. The same goes for books. Once I’ve read the blurb, I’m good to go.
At first, Black River Orchard seems simple enough. We’re introduced to Dan Paxton, a single father raising his teenage daughter, Calla. The two share a strong bond, having weathered the grief of losing Dan’s wife. Dan owns an orchard that’s been in his family for generations, but times are hard.
Dan thinks his luck has changed when the trees produce a strange new variety of apple. Calla — who famously hates apples — is sceptical. But she’s stunned when the town becomes obsessed with them. Dan can’t grow them fast enough. They’re delicious, sure — but they also seem… magical.
Dan’s eyesight improves. Calla’s boyfriend’s broken leg heals within days. As word spreads, Dan’s invited to join an exclusive social club, and for the first time in his life, he feels like he truly belongs. But not everything about this “membership” is as wholesome as it seems.
Community, Corruption, and Creepy Fruit
Community is at the heart of this novel. Wendig gives us a large ensemble cast, each connected to Dan or his apples. A newlywed lesbian couple moves into town but hides fractures beneath the surface. A liberal couple’s behaviour ruffles their elderly neighbour. And so on.
The structure reminded me of Stephen King’s Needful Things — a high compliment. It’s no easy feat to juggle this many characters and make them feel distinct and compelling. But Wendig pulls it off like it’s no sweat off his sack.
Final Thoughts
Calla becomes one of the few who see the apples for what they are. But when you’re the minority, it’s easy to doubt yourself. Still, she and her allies must stand strong if they hope to save the town from the orchard’s growing evil.
At over 600 pages, it’s a hefty read. While gripping overall, I think the book could’ve been trimmed a bit. That said, it’s a fantastic, creepy horror novel that I absolutely recommend.
My Goodreads rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
Buy the Book:
These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.
