Shelf To Table
Food Spotlight: Rum Cake
The perfect food pairing for this novel is a rum cake. Spiced rum cake is rich, decadent, and soaked with flavor—much like the atmosphere of It Waits in the Forest. The warmth of the spices and the depth of the rum mirror the novel’s blend of Caribbean culture with something darker lurking beneath the surface. It’s a dessert often tied to tradition and family, which makes it a perfect match for Selina’s journey as she uncovers the long-buried secrets of her own family. Just as each bite of rum cake lingers with complexity, this story leaves readers with layers of suspense, folklore, and the bittersweet taste of truth. It’s indulgent, a little dangerous, and utterly unforgettable—exactly like the novel.
It Waits in the Forest by Sarah Dass
It Waits in the Forest by Sarah Dass is a YA Caribbean gothic thriller. Selina DaSilva doesn’t believe in magic—until strange murders on her island force her to face the dark folklore she’s long denied. Teaming up with her ex-boyfriend, Selina races to uncover the truth behind the evil lurking in the forest, while confronting secrets about her family and her own past.
Page To Plate
Food Featured In The Book
Stewed oxtail and rice is a featured dish in the novel, capturing the heart and soul of Caribbean comfort food. Slow-cooked until tender and rich in flavor, the oxtail is simmered with herbs, spices, and gravy, then served over perfectly seasoned rice.
Character Cravings
Set in the fictional Caribbean town of St. Virgil, where jerk chicken is a staple dish, the food mirrors the bold, vibrant world Selina is navigating. Known for its smoky heat and spicy kick, jerk chicken embodies the lively, complex culture of the region—full of intensity, hidden layers, and resilience. Paired with traditional sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or festival bread, the meal brings the rich tastes of the Caribbean to life. Much like Selina, an outcast trying to unravel a mystery, jerk chicken balances fire and depth, reflecting her determination, sharp instincts, and ability to stand out as she pieces together the truth.
Book Club Bite
A fruit salad or fruit tray makes the perfect snack for a book club discussion of this novel. Light, colorful, and easy to grab, it adds a refreshing sweetness that complements the story’s tropical Caribbean setting while keeping the focus on lively conversation and the book’s deeper themes.
“If they were afraid, then I didn’t have to be.” – Sarah Dass