Review: "Everything The Darkness Eats" by Eric Larocca, 2023

Everything the Darkness Eats by Eric LaRocca, 2023
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Eric LaRocca's "Everything the Darkness Eats" is a novel that masterfully intertwines the cosmic and the personal, creating a haunting narrative set in the deceptive tranquility of Henley’s Edge. LaRocca crafts a story that not only delves deep into the human psyche but also explores the profound impact of otherness in a world marred by bigotry and homophobia.

At the heart of the narrative are two compelling, interwoven stories. First, we have Ghost Everling, a grieving widower grappling with the loss of his wife and unborn child. Ghost’s journey is a poignant exploration of grief and the supernatural, as he encounters the enigmatic Heart Crowley. Crowley's introduction into Ghost's life opens up a pathway to understanding the town's dark secrets, including the unsettling disappearances that plague Henley’s Edge. Ghost’s story is beautifully written, capturing the essence of loss and the desperation to find meaning in the inexplicable.

Parallel to Ghost's narrative is the story of Nadeem Malik, a gay police officer, and his husband Brett. Their experiences in Henley’s Edge are a stark depiction of the violence and prejudice faced by LGBTQ individuals. LaRocca doesn’t shy away from portraying the brutal realities of homophobia, making their story a powerful commentary on the societal challenges the queer community faces. Despite the darkness they encounter, Nadeem and Brett's love and resilience shine through, offering a beacon of hope amidst the despair.

LaRocca’s prose is both elegant and accessible, weaving these two narratives together with a skill that keeps the reader engaged and invested. The author’s ability to portray complex emotions and the subtleties of human (and inhuman) interactions is exceptional.

As the stories of Ghost and Nadeem converge, LaRocca masterfully brings together the themes of loss, otherness, and the fight against pervasive evil. The climax is not only a resolution of the novel's mysteries but also a profound statement on the endurance of the human spirit against overwhelming odds.

"Everything the Darkness Eats" is reflection on the human condition, the pain of loss, and the relentless struggle against societal evils. It’s a testament to LaRocca's skill as a storyteller and his ability to craft narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are moving. This book is a fantastic horro-read for anyone who appreciates emotionally resonant storytelling, especially those interested in LGBTQ themes and the exploration of grief and otherness in modern society.

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Review: " Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree, 2023"

Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Travis Baldree's 'Bookshops & Bonedust' isn't just a prequel to 'Legends & Lattes'; it's a whole new adventure that takes us back to the start of Viv's story. She's the tough orc from the first book, and here, we get to see her younger days, full of energy and ready for battle. But then, there’s a twist. Viv gets injured and ends up in this small, seaside town called Murk to heal up. She's not happy about it at first – imagine being all ready for action and then having to sit still!

Murk might seem boring on the surface, but Viv's stay there turns into something special. She meets Fern, who runs this quirky bookshop along with Potroast the pet, and Maylee, a baker with a past as adventurous as Viv’s. The way they become friends is heartwarming and real. There's even a sweet romance tucked in the story.

This book has a bit more action than 'Legends & Lattes.' Viv deals with some spooky stuff like a necromancer and a mysterious guy in gray. But don't worry, the story still keeps its focus on Viv's growth and the friendships she makes in Murk.

Baldree writes in a way that pulls you right into the story. You can almost hear Viv’s thoughts as she learns to enjoy life’s quieter moments and discovers a newfound love for books. The scenes set in the bookshop are a real treat, especially if you love books as much as I do.

'Bookshops & Bonedust' shows us a different side of Viv. She’s not just a warrior here; she's a young person figuring out who she is, making friends, and growing in ways she didn't expect. It’s a story that many of us can relate to, especially if you've ever been at a point where you're figuring out what you want in life.

All in all, 'Bookshops & Bonedust' is a brilliant blend of fantasy adventure and genuine human connection. Whether you’re already a fan of Baldree’s work or just jumping in, this book offers a heartwarming and engaging story about life's quieter battles and the importance of the connections we make.

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Review: Twelve Nights with Viola & Olivia, by Lady Vanessa S.-G., edited by Hannah Miyamoto, 2023

Twelve Nights with Viola & Olivia by Lady Vanessa S.-G., 2023
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Twelve Nights With Viola & Olivia," was an unexpected journey for me. I'm not typically the target audience for books heavy on Shakespearean flair or explicit sapphic themes, but there were parts of this book that really stood out to me.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is not the story itself but the reader's guide in the foreword. This guide delves into the complexities of social rank and grammar during Shakespeare's era, shedding light on the intricate use of personal pronouns and their meanings based on one's social standing. The guide includes a detailed table outlining each rank and its corresponding territorial right, enhancing the reader's understanding of the societal framework within which the story unfolds. This exploration of language, particularly the nuanced use of pronouns like "Thou," "Thee," "Ye," "Thy," "Thine," and "Sirrah," reveals much about the characters' relationships and their relative social ranks. It's a fascinating study, though it can be somewhat perplexing, especially when considering the dual implications of certain pronouns, which can denote intimacy or animosity.

The structure of the novel is like each chapter playing out a scene from a play. I found it helpful to take a moment after each chapter to reflect on what had happened, which really helped me connect with the characters and their arcs, particulary that the plot plays heavily with mistaken identities.

Speaking of characters, while the novel includes gay men in its cast, they seem more peripheral to the main storyline. Their presence feels ancillary, and I suspect they might not receive much more depth in the upcoming installment, given the novel's focus on the titular characters, Viola and Olivia. The heterosexual characters, though not explicitly labeled as such, are implied to be part of the general populace, particularly among the lower social ranks. 

One scene that really stands out is with Maria, the chambermaid. The author's attention to detail here is something else – it's quite a vivid and immersive description and will most likely titillate some groups of readers moreso than than others.

"Twelve Nights With Viola & Olivia" is a novel that might cater more to a niche audience, particularly those with an affinity for Shakespearean language and sapphic themes. However, its exploration of historical linguistics and social hierarchy provides an interesting lens through which to view the narrative, offering something of value even to those outside its target demographic.

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Review: "Bored Gay Werewolf" by Tony Santorella, 2023

Bored Gay Werewolf by Tony Santorella,2023
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tony Santorella's "Bored Gay Werewolf" is a unique entry in the world of queer literature, offering more than just a tale of transformation and moonlit escapades. It's a story that resonates deeply with the complexities and absurdities of modern gay life, all through the lens of our protagonist, Brian, a werewolf who's as aimlessly charming as he is hairy in wolf form.

Brian's life, tangled between his Grindr escapades and lunar-induced transformations, is beautifully
chaotic. His friends, Nik and Darby, stand as pillars of normalcy in the whirlwind of his life, grounding the story in a reality that's both relatable and endearing.

While the climactic showdown is packed with excitement, it does rush towards its conclusion, particularly with the introduction of Abe, whose sudden appearance feels a bit like a jolt in an otherwise smoothly running  action narrative. However, this is balanced by the beautifully executed 'coming out' moment- a scene that is a blend of sweet, absurd, and heartwarming elements, perfectly encapsulating the nuances of revealing one's true self.

"Bored Gay Werewolf" goes beyond the typical werewolf narrative, weaving in threads of friendship, self-discovery, and the quest for identity in a world that often feels as unpredictable as a full moon night. Santorella has crafted a story that not only entertains but also reflects on the deeper aspects of the gay experience with sensitivity and wit.

"Bored Gay Werewolf" is more than a clever title. It's a heartfelt exploration of what it means to find one's place in the world – a world that may not always understand the complexities of being queer (and a werewolf, if you are lucky). For those seeking a story that combines earnest exploration of identity with a touch of the supernatural, this book is a compelling choice.

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Review: "Fellow Travelers" by Thomas Mallon, 2007

Fellow Travelers by Thomas Mallon, 2007
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

In "Fellow Travelers," Thomas Mallon attempts to weave a tale that treads the line between a political thriller and a poignant exploration of a clandestine relationship in the oppressive atmosphere of 1950s America. Set against the backdrop of the Lavender Scare, the novel traces the relationship between Timothy Laughlin and Hawkins Fuller, interlaced with the presence of Mary Johnson, who acts as a grounding force in their tumultuous world.

The novel's strength, I found, lies in its character development, particularly in the evolving dynamics
between Timothy and Hawkins. Their growth is steady, albeit somewhat predictable, culminating in a tragic end that leaves a lasting impression. Mary, as a character, serves as a crucial fulcrum in their relationship, providing a touch of relatability and grounding in a narrative that often feels distant due to its heavy political context.

For readers like myself, who are less inclined towards politics, the novel's deep dive into the political intricacies of the era can be somewhat off-putting. While I appreciate the necessity of the historical backdrop in establishing the stakes for Timothy and Hawkins, it often felt as though the political elements overshadowed the personal story at the heart of the novel.

The 'talky' sections, particularly those involving Senator Potter and other political figures, contribute to this overshadowing. These segments, often laden with exposition, could benefit from a more show-don't-tell approach, allowing readers to grasp the socio-political landscape through action and interaction rather than dialogue-heavy scenes.

However, the novel's epilogue stands out as its most striking part, beautifully encapsulating the emotional essence of the story. It is in these quieter, more introspective moments that "Fellow Travelers" truly shines, offering poignant insights into the human condition amidst historical turmoil.

"Fellow Travelers" is a novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate character-driven narratives set against a rich historical tapestry. However, those seeking a less politically charged read might find the emphasis on the era's political dynamics a bit daunting. It's a story of love, loss, and the sacrifices we make, set in a time when such sacrifices were all too often demanded by the world.

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Review: "The Night House" by Jo Nesb0, 2023

The Night House by Jo Nesbø, 2023
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Jo Nesbø's foray into the domain of horror with "The Night House" marks a daring pivot from his famed crime-thriller series featuring Inspector Harry Hole. Notably known for his multi-faceted career, including his roles as a rock band vocalist and children's book author, Nesbø's latest release cements his status as a maverick in genre-bending narratives.

"The Night House" is artistically split into three distinct parts, each unraveling with increasing

complexity and depth. The initial section sends readers spiraling into the 1980s, where nostalgia interweaves with a young adult (YA) horror vibe. Here, we meet Richard Elauved, a fourteen-year-old whose life in Ballentyne morphs into a living nightmare as his acquaintances begin disappearing under bizarre and terrifying circumstances. The narrative in this part, reminiscent of a Lovecraftian tale gone awry, unfolds through the eyes of Richard, whose unlikable persona as the school bully makes him a suspect and, paradoxically, a victim of the hauntingly mysterious events. This section has been likened to the dark, eerie undertones of "Stranger Things," albeit through a lens that seems to simplify the complexities of the supernatural.

The second part of the book is a paradigm shift, a jolt that catapults the reader fifteen years forward, where Nesbø masterfully executes a twist that reshapes the entire storyline. This revelation is not entirely unprecedented in horror literature, but in Nesbø's hands, it becomes a fresh and captivating narrative device that enhances the suspense.

In the third and final segment, Nesbø delivers yet another volte-face, plunging the narrative into an even more profound psychological maze. It's a testament to his ingenuity, drawing comparisons to the likes of Catriona Ward in crafting mind-bending turns that leave readers questioning their grasp on the plot's reality.

Throughout the novel, Nesbø teases the reader, embedding clues and foreshadowing that might seem heavy-handed in retrospect but are easily overlooked during the first encounter with the story. Literary and cinematic references abound, providing a tapestry of cultural touchstones that enrich the reading experience.

"The Night House" steps beyond what you might expect from a typical horror story. Instead of just scary

moments, it gives us a deep dive into the main character's personal struggles and his journey to figure out who he is, all while spooky, supernatural things happen around him. Jo Nesbø's writing may be different from the usual horror fare and not as dark as his detective stories, therefore comes across as intended for YA. The book invites readers on a unique and creepy adventure that really gets into the mind of the hero/anti-hero.

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