The Twisted Ones by T. Kingfisher: A Unique Blend of Creepy Atmosphere and Quirky Humor
T. Kingfisher’s The Twisted Ones combines eerie horror with unexpected humor, following Mouse as she cleans out her late grandmother’s hoarder home. What starts as a mundane chore quickly spirals into a nightmare when she uncovers bizarre secrets and encounters an otherworldly presence known as the Twisted Ones. Set against a creepy rural backdrop, the novel expertly crafts an unsettling atmosphere, though its frequent humor may distract from the tension for some readers. Perfect for fans of quirky, genre-bending horror.
BOOK REVIEW
Amber Dean
3 min read
A Twisted Take on Horror: The Twisted Ones by T. Kingfisher
For horror readers seeking an eerie escape, T. Kingfisher’s The Twisted Ones delivers plenty of unsettling moments—but not without some quirks that might divide opinions. Known for her fantasy works, Kingfisher shifts gears into horror with this novel, blending her signature storytelling style with a new, darker tone. The result is a creepy narrative with occasional attempts at humor that, depending on your taste, either add charm or feel out of place.
At the heart of the story is Mouse, a self-deprecating and awkward protagonist sent to clear out her deceased grandmother’s hoarder house. What begins as a tedious task turns into a horrifying descent into the unknown when Mouse uncovers bizarre family secrets—and a haunting presence known as the Twisted Ones. It’s a promising setup that thrives on its eerie atmosphere and unsettling discoveries, even if the humor occasionally detracts from the tension.
The Humor: A Hit or Miss?
One of the most divisive aspects of The Twisted Ones is its use of humor. While Kingfisher’s comedic touches aim to make Mouse relatable, they often come across as cheesy or forced, breaking the immersive dread that horror fans crave. For instance, Mouse’s sarcastic quips in moments of danger can feel jarring, pulling readers out of the suspense just as it starts to build. Instead of heightening the stakes, the humor sometimes undermines them, softening what could otherwise be spine-tingling moments.
This tonal clash might appeal to readers who enjoy a lighthearted approach to horror, but those seeking a purely unsettling experience may find the levity distracting. In several scenes, the humor undercuts the gravity of Mouse’s situation, making it difficult to fully invest in the story’s darker elements. While humor can be an effective tool in horror when used sparingly—think of the occasional comic relief in Scream or The Cabin in the Woods—here it feels overused, diluting the sense of dread rather than complementing it.
Atmosphere and Suspense: Where The Twisted Ones Shines
Despite its tonal missteps, The Twisted Ones excels in crafting a creepy, slow-burning atmosphere. The rural setting, with its claustrophobic woods and unsettling relics, sets the stage for an immersive horror experience. Kingfisher’s descriptive writing brings these eerie environments to life, making readers feel as though they’re right alongside Mouse as she stumbles through the darkness.
The book’s best moments are those that lean into its horror elements without interruption. When Kingfisher focuses on the unsettling discoveries in Mouse’s grandmother’s home or the enigmatic entity haunting the story, the tension builds beautifully. It’s in these chilling scenes that the novel truly delivers, drawing readers deeper into its twisted world.
Who The Twisted Ones Is For
The Twisted Ones offers a unique horror experience that blends eerie storytelling with moments of levity—but this blend won’t work for everyone. Fans of lighter horror or genre mashups might appreciate the quirkiness Kingfisher brings to the table. However, for readers who prefer their horror unrelenting and immersive, the humor may feel like an unwelcome distraction from the tension.
While the novel’s atmosphere and creepy imagery are undeniably effective, the inconsistent tone makes it less likely to satisfy horror purists. If you’re looking for a story that’s rich in unsettling detail but willing to sacrifice some of its suspense for quirky charm, The Twisted Ones might be worth a try. For those seeking a grittier, more serious take on horror, this one might leave you wanting more.
Final Thoughts
T. Kingfisher’s The Twisted Ones is a bold experiment in blending horror with humor, but the results are mixed. While the book shines in its atmospheric horror and unique premise, the frequent injections of humor can disrupt the tension, leaving readers torn between laughter and fear. It’s a novel that dares to be different—whether that’s a strength or a weakness depends on what you’re looking for in a horror story.