This was an arc read for me and I enjoyed it. I like how the story played out and how things started to come together. I enjoyed the characters except for Roma. She rubbed me the wrong way but I could look past it for the rest of the story. I really enjoyed this

Beautifully strange and deeply unsettling, Mad as Birds is a psychological horror that lingers long after the last page.

When teen artist Milo and his brother move to a remote, off-grid community for a fresh start, he hopes to escape the grief and chaos of his past. But something isn’t right in this supposed sanctuary. Milo starts painting a mysterious woman who begins to blur the lines between muse and menace and what follows is a descent into obsession, madness, and the question of whether he’s creating art… or being controlled by it.

M.C. Schmidt writes with eerie lyricism and creeping dread. This is a haunting, slow-burn tale of isolation, creativity, and the thin line between inspiration and destruction.

Milo didn’t ask for a fresh start, but that’s exactly what he gets when his brother moves them to an off-grid, isolated community with no internet, no TV, and no connection to the outside world. Once a retreat for famous artists, the place starts to awaken something in Milo, especially when a ghostly woman begins appearing while he paints. At first, he mistakes her for inspiration… until he realises she’s something far more dangerous.

This book reminded me so much of the video game What Remains of Edith Finch, which I happened to be watching while reading (not at the same time though!). The apartments felt just like the game, full of hidden rooms, creative nooks, and that eerie coastal atmosphere. I think my brain kept blending the two together as I could see a lot of similarities.

I love stories set in small, self-sufficient communities, and this one had just the right amount of unsettling cult energy. The apartments gave me strong Overlook Hotel vibes from The Shining. I was fascinated by the large herons too as they felt symbolic, almost like ghostly guides to the underworld, and that theme paired beautifully with the haunting figures in the story. Florence, the woman drifting through the halls looking to possess people, was truly creepy (honestly, some ghosts just need therapy 😅), and her presence was handled in such an intriguing way.

The narrative shift halfway through, from first-person to a strange third-person perspective that still felt rooted in Milo’s POV, worked surprisingly well. It gave the book a voyeuristic, unsettling quality, as if the reader was peering into lives not meant to be seen. My only real complaint was the ending as it felt a bit abrupt, and I would’ve loved more insight into Sam’s perspective.

Overall, the writing was immersive, the pacing sharp, and some scenes genuinely gave me the chills. A great, eerie story I really enjoyed. 3.75/5.

Thanks to Black Rose Writing and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Available on the 24 July 2025.

I was really enjoying this story at the beginning. I loved the characters (even if they didn’t feel real at times), I enjoyed the setting, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. Especially with the spirit that is using Milo. I thought it was fun. Though by the time I got to the end it had gone downhill a bit for me and everything felt a bit rushed. Not a great conclusion which left me with a just okay feeling overall which is unfortunate as I was really enjoying it at the beginning.

Thanks to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC copy. This has not affected my review at all, which are my own thoughts.

With their parents dead, his big brother in charge and Milo having been made a pariah after an incident that got him expelled, for them both to move to a community with no internet connection is the fresh start they definitely need. Complete isolation from the outside world. Milo may not be totally in favor, but what else can he do?
As a talented painter, Milo gets intrigued about his new home, a plce called The Castle, upon learning that it used to be a retreat for past painters. And so, when a ghostly woman appears whenever he thinks about getting to paint, he thinks her as a muse, or the remnant of one of those painters, and so Milo accepts her and they start creating perfect works. Milo gets lost in it, obsessed with the oils, unaware of what the ghost might actually be doing to him and the rest of the residents and the danger it posses.

I have mixed feelings about this... Well, not exactly that, more like no feelings at all. That's my biggest issue with this book, that it made me feel nothing as the pages went on. In fact, I must say that the only character that made me feel for them and care was my girl Sam, a secondary character, one of the other residents of the community and a friend Milo makes. She was nice, a fellow painter and the brains around when things get strange. I felt for her because, even though we don't get her POV and she's a secondary character, she's relatable, she makes sound decisions and she's a nice person, and yet she suffered but kept going, thinking always about her dad and friends, full of contradictions, yet, just...so human.

I can't say the same about Milo. He's the narrator and main character, the sufferer of most of the strange events taking place at The Castle. Yet, his voice was So Annoying. And I get that he's young, some people can be annoying and, eventually, change. But I couldn't stand him for the first chapters, so by the time he started to realize and tried to be nicer, or, at least, to change the way he thought about others, and how he related to his brother, I wasn't able to bring myself to care about him.

So, I'd say, for me, this book was a intriguing idea-poor execution case. Also, I thought it would be heavier on having vibes/reminding me of Hitchcock's Birds movie, but it didn't; birds even don't appear enough for me given the title and how the book presents them as this important element that will save the day or something in the end, and it felt, that they were more use as a "deus ex machina". They felt a bit shoehorn withing the narrative for my liking.

There were other elements like this, that could have been mentioned before, so we already new them by the time they become relevant to the characters/plot. Maybe I'm too picky, but even in novellas, I'd like to have a little precedent, moreover when the writing would allow it, like in this case. Because, for example, and no spoilers 'cause I'm gonna be vague, but there's some obscure door at The Castle's grounds that Milo saw with Sam while making a tour at the start. Yet, this door is not mentioned until later on, by a third character, and then Milo thinks it important enough to mention it. But yeah, this is just a personal preference, other people may not mind this and that's completely find.

I'm also not entirely sold on how the past of the ghost was discovered/told to us. And how, instead of introducing a new narrator, it was Milo seeing what others characters were doing when he wasn't around trough some magical forces, the way we were described these other scenes and actions to know what both sides were doing at those final times. But, again, preference of story formatting, I'm sure.

On the other hand, I did like the mystery surrounding The Castle, the ghost haunting it and what might be happening to Milo. How the painting aspect was implementing and how the different characters interacted with each other. And, again, the premise, which was far more promising than the actual result.

Overall, I can recommend this one if y'all are looking for a short read with interesting characters and a mystery to keep y'all on the edge of the chair. Otherwise, I don't think I can recommend it, 'cause it was too bland, I didn't like the ending and even got bored at times, though the mystery can actually carry the story for most of it, I had the temptation to skip some parts, and that's never a good sign. But, if my review made any of y'all want to read it to check it out for yourself, go for it I say

Thank you for NetGalley for the ARC
This was a really good haunting and creepy read. The perspective from each of the characters made this a great storyline and a hard to put down book. The cover drew me in and now seeing how the heron plays a part makes it even better.

Mad as Birds is chaotic, tender, and completely unhinged—in the best possible way. M.C. Schmidt has written a novel that defies easy categorization: part dark comedy, part tragedy, part surreal fever dream. I laughed out loud, cringed hard, and felt my heart get squeezed in ways I didn’t see coming.

This book is full of people you might not want to sit next to on a bus—but you do want to read about them. They're messy, loud, painfully human, and oddly lovable even when they’re falling apart. Schmidt has this incredible ability to swing from absurd humor to gut-punch emotional moments without missing a beat. One second you're watching someone spiral in the most ridiculous way possible, the next you're choking on a line that cuts deeper than you expected.

The prose is sharp, weird, and electric. The structure plays with form in a way that keeps you on your toes, but never feels like a gimmick. Everything here feels purposeful—even the madness.

If you're drawn to literary fiction that’s offbeat, a little wild, and brimming with heart beneath all the weirdness, Mad as Birds is absolutely worth the ride. Just hold on tight—it gets delightfully bumpy.

This was a great gothic horror story. I really enjoyed how the story was written and told through different perspectives, which was then wrapped up perfectly at the end. All the characters were interesting and unique and added their own flare to the story. Some parts may not have hit as effectively as they could have but overall I really enjoyed this story and I really enjoyed how the author wrapped it all up at the end, almost coming full circle.

Reading Mad as Birds felt like being lured into a fog and waking up gasping for breath. M.C. Schmidt’s writing walks this razor-thin line between the uncanny and the deeply human—grief, guilt, creativity, and the need to be seen, all tangled up in one boy’s haunting. It took me by surprise that I needed tissues by the end of the story!

What undid me completely was the final chapter. The fact that Milo is now in therapy, grappling with what happened and doing the hard, quiet work of healing; hit me harder than any of the book’s most terrifying moments. It left me thinking about how often we forget that recovery is its own kind of horror story, but also its greatest act of courage.

The symbolism of the great blue heron hooked me before I even opened the book—the cover is what first drew me in—but by the end, that image held such weight. The final scene with the heron and the lamia gave me full-body goosebumps. It’s not just eerie; it’s beautiful and devastating in equal measure.

Though I devoured this book in one sitting I have to stress that this isn’t a light read. Some of the tropes are confronting, and at times, disorienting. But I’d recommend it in a heartbeat—especially to creatives who’ve ever used art to process what they couldn’t say out loud. It’s the kind of book that stays with you!

Mad as Birds is easily read in one sitting and is more than a horror story. By setting the book in a rural commune-like community, one that has a no-internet policy, the author immediately captures the reader's attention. It's difficult to imagine teenagers willingly living there. Family trauma plays a big part, although there is no counseling service available. The horror aspect builds slowly, as the lamia's possession of Milo strengthens, until it feels like a runaway train. I thought the inclusion of herons, often depicted as messengers, was a clever plot twist. I like a story that comes full circle, as this one does for Milo. "You never know what struggles someone is going through, so you can't know what effect it will have when you flip them the bird or call them a name or say something mean about them online. I'm not responsible for her death, but I am responsible for my actions, and my actions were harmful." Mad as Birds will appeal to a variety of readers, and I'm sure that I will enjoy rereading it.

My thanks to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC. This review and opinions are entirely my own.

Rating: 4 stars!

Ok why am I obsessed with this?? Most horror books go a little something like this: really good build up, scary peak, super cheesy "its not really scary" type reveal, everyone lives happily ever after. THIS IS NOT THAT. The build up starts a little slow. Our main character gets invited to live off the grid in a new community with his brother. There is no technology, no wifi, but some kind of demonic spirit?? The chapter breakdown in this book adds to the suspense, the "fly on the wall" perspective is everything, and the backstory add in create the ultimate scare factor. The "real" ending vs the happily ever after you normally get in horror books just adds to this books greatness. Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Netgalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

M.C. Schmidt’s “Mad As Birds” is a haunting, atmospheric story featuring contemporary gothic horror and psychological thriller while exploring themes of grief, creativity, and the dangerous seduction of inspiration taken too far. This is a short, fast-paced book guaranteed to keep your attention throughout.

After a single impulsive comment gets him expelled for cyberbullying, teenage artist Milo is relocated by his older brother and guardian, Jack, to an “intentional community” deep in the countryside, which involves no phones, no internet, and no connection to the outside world. Meant to offer healing and reflection, this isolated anti-tech commune instead becomes the setting for something far more sinister. Milo, grappling with guilt and emotional detachment, finds new focus in painting. That is until a ghostly muse named Eleanor begins visiting him, offering him bursts of inspiration... and slowly taking over his body.

Schmidt delivers a chilling, slow-burn horror story with a distinctly modern twist on the possession trope. Unlike the over-the-top exorcisms of classic horror, Mad As Birds roots its terror in quiet dread and psychological unraveling. The ghost, Eleanor, described as a lamia than spirit, feeds on grief and creative potential, choosing Milo as her latest canvas for revenge. Her possession is not immediate but incremental, tightening its grip as Milo becomes more dependent on the talent she lends him.

The relationship between Milo and his brother Jack is quietly poignant, and Milo’s connection with Sam, a fellow young painter who’s had similar experiences, adds both tension and tenderness. The characters are well-developed for the book’s short length, and Milo in particular stands out with his dry humor, vulnerability, and openness about mental health, which is an especially refreshing portrayal in YA fiction.

Visually, the novel is rich and evocative. Herons serve as a recurring and symbolic motif—eerie, elegant sentinels that carry emotional weight and become central in the story’s emotionally charged climax. Schmidt effectively uses the setting featuring a crumbling artists' retreat turned community compound to layer in the isolation, claustrophobia, and slow creep of dread.

While the book moves quickly, I did wish for more depth in the folklore surrounding the lamia and its background. The climax, though memorable and emotionally potent, felt slightly rushed given the buildup. Still, the final chapters deliver a strong blend of suspense, action, and self-reckoning, ending on a note of healing and growth. Milo’s journey from guilt-ridden outcast to someone confronting his trauma and reclaiming his autonomy is both moving and satisfying.

Overall, “Mad As Birds: is a tight, atmospheric YA horror story that pairs ghostly possession with timely commentary on artistic identity, social media fallout, and the messy process of healing. With sharp writing, an engaging cast, and a unique take on supernatural horror, it’s a compelling read, especially for the spooky season.

An unfortunate incident leaves young artist Milo and his guardian/brother Jack longing for a fresh start. That fresh start appears as a small anti-technology community in an old mansion in the countryside. When Sam, a girl Milo's age who also paints, tells him that she has been seeing a ghost, and that this ghost has been painting through her, Milo is sucked into the mystery of what happened long ago, and what this ghost wants now.

The cover had me a bit hesitant, but the Prologue drew me in instantly. I love supernatural thriller type books, and this one definitely delivered. I wanted to know more about this entity, but did enjoy how the book was on the shorter end, so it never slowed/stalled. A solid YA horror- perfect for the spooky season!

I rated it 4/5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC!

A slow-burn ya horror of the perfect length! The characters were easy to get along with, and the main character, Milo, were very easy to feel sympathy for, even though we don't get to the root of his shunning before later in the book. His dark-ish humour was attractive to me, and it meshed well with his inner turmoil and self doubt.

I read some of the most interesting parts in the middle of the night with the lights off, and I definitely felt that horror thrill that means the book got to me on an emotional level.

My only peeve was that the lead up was so absolutely perfect that the really vague ending left me a little disappointed after the big climax. But overall I really enjoyed the book, and the length was perfect, especially for people who want to dip their toes into the genre, but don't want to commit to a 300+ book.

Thank you M.C. Schmidt and Black Rose Writing for this e-arc!

(I will also post on StoryGraph if/when the book gets there as I don't use Goodreads anymore)

Sometimes isolation and a artistic personality isn’t always the best thing. And the one person you choose to trust is not your chosen person. Be careful. Hopefully you have a strong enough moral compass and will power to fight. This book is heavy psychological and a bit slow at first but it’s very worth it.

After being expelled from school, Milo and his brother / guardian move to an “intentional community,” which offers residence for those looking for peace and in-person connection. With no phones, no internet, and no outside connection, Milo finds the isolation bittersweet. He discovers this was once an artists’ retreat, which appeals to him, being a painter himself. When a ghost on the premises becomes his muse, will his mysterious newfound talent come with a price? Can he regain control over his body before he’s forced to kill?

“Mad as Birds” by M.C. Schmidt had me invested from the start. This slow-burn horror grabbed my attention immediately with the setting and the mystery of Milo’s backstory. Milo’s narration offers glimpses of dark humor that kept me engaged throughout the story. The characters were well-written and I really loved Milo, Sam, and especially Roma. This story offers a new take on the possession trope that I loved. Without giving anything away, my only gripe was that the climax, while unique, felt a little rushed.
“Mad as Birds” is a compelling (and quick) read that is worth your time. This book is out on July 24, 2025.

Trigger warnings: bullying, suicide, cancer, death of a parent(s)

Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!

An interesting read, although I found the formatting difficult to follow in this particular copy. Worth a try for fans of thrillers and slow-burn horror.

What a wonderful read! The characters are so well written I feel like I know them. It was creepy but not too scary. I enjoyed the history that gave the story a great presence. Would recommend over and over again.