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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Book Review of "Cleanness" by Garth Greenwell, 2020

Cleanness by Garth Greenwell, 2020
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Garth Greenwell's "Cleanness" is a mesmerizing tapestry of human emotion and connection, set against the evocative backdrop of Sofia, Bulgaria. As a continuation of Greenwell's debut, "What Belongs to You", this novel skillfully intertwines the trials and tribulations of an unnamed American English teacher as he navigates the intricacies of love, desire, and identity in a foreign land. The novel, with its casual and winding tone, presents each encounter and observation with an exquisite tenderness, highlighting the delicate balance between pleasure and pain, joy and sorrow.

One of the novel's early encounters, an arranged meeting with Gospodar "which means master", is

particularly titillating, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation and anxiety. It's a testament to Greenwell's storytelling prowess that he can transform such moments into a visceral experience for the reader. However, it's the poignant and searing encounter with the 'little saint' that truly stands out. The raw emotion in this scene – where the narrator re-enacts a form of learned abuse and is overcome with an 'acid grief' – is both harrowing and deeply moving. The culmination of this encounter, with the narrator breaking down and being comforted, showcases the complexities of human relationships, where pain and tenderness often coexist.

The heart of "Cleanness" lies in its exploration of love – its highs, lows, and the compromises it often demands. The central relationship with R., introduced in Greenwell's previous work, encapsulates the novel's themes of passion, vulnerability, and the often cruel dance between love and cruelty. The stories set in the decaying city of Sofia, juxtaposed with the moments of beauty and connection the narrator finds, create a rich, atmospheric setting that complements the emotional depth of the narrative.

In summary, "Cleanness" is a beautifully crafted novel that delves deep into the human heart, capturing the myriad emotions and experiences that define our existence. With its keen observations and intricate character dynamics, it's a poignant reflection on love, identity, and the stories we tell ourselves. Whether you're a returning fan of Greenwell's work or a new reader, this novel promises a journey that is both introspective and profoundly moving.

#BookRecommendation #GarthGreenwell #Cleanness #LiteraryJourney #SofiaStories #DeepReads #BooksOfInstagram #EmotionalOdyssey #ReadingRecommendations

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Review: "Walking Practice", by Dolki Min, 2023

Walking Practice by Dolki Min
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Walking Practice": A Deep Dive into Gender, Alienation, and the Quest for Acceptance

Dolki Min's "Walking Practice" is a masterclass in speculative fiction, weaving a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is darkly humorous. At its core, the novel delves into the intricacies of gender identity, societal norms, and the ever-present human yearning for acceptance and belonging.

Min's protagonist, Mumu, a shape-shifting extraterrestrial, serves as a mirror to our society's rigid

constructs. Stranded on Earth and navigating the complexities of human interactions, Mumu's experiences underscore the challenges faced by those who don't fit neatly into societal boxes. The novel's exploration of gender is particularly poignant, highlighting the fear and discrimination faced by those who defy traditional gender norms. Min's astute observation that anything not immediately classifiable as male or female is met with prejudice is a stark reminder of the deep-seated biases that persist in our society.

Drawing parallels with Michel Faber's "Under the Skin," both novels center on extraterrestrial beings preying on humans, only to find themselves grappling with unexpected empathy for their victims. While Faber's protagonist discovers the humanity within her prey, Min's Mumu undergoes a similar journey of self-discovery, challenging its own beliefs and perceptions.

Comparatively, the novel's exploration of gender fluidity is reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Left Hand of Darkness." However, where Le Guin's work is subtle and philosophical, "Walking Practice" is more direct, confronting the reader with the stark realities of discrimination against anything that doesn't fit neatly into binary categories.

The narrative is enriched with Min's unique voice, blending wry humor with profound insights. Readers are treated to Mumu's candid observations on the absurdities of human behavior, especially concerning body standards and gender performance. The alien's perspective, both humorous and heart-wrenching, offers a fresh lens through which to view our own world.

While the novel boasts intricate black and white illustrations, some readers might find them leaning more towards the serious side, contrasting with the story's whimsical undertones. The artwork by Ian Mackay, as highlighted in a New York Times review, seems to capture the essence of the story more fittingly, merging absurdity with depth.

"Walking Practice" is an essential read for a broad spectrum of readers, from LGBTQIA advocates and bizarro fiction aficionados to those with a penchant for dark comedy, science fiction, and tales infused with absurdity. Dolki Min's storytelling prowess ensures that even the most bizarre premises can offer deep insights into the human psyche, making "Walking Practice" a standout in contemporary speculative fiction.

I rate the novel a 4.9 out of 5.

#BookRecommendation #WalkingPractice #SpeculativeFiction #LGBTQIA #Bookstagram #QueerLit #BizzaroFiction #ScienceFiction #DolkiMin #VictoriaCaudle #KoreanBooks #TranslatedLiterature

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Review: Drowned Country by Emily Tesh, 2020

Drowned Country by Emily Tesh, 2020
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Drowned Country" utterly captivated me from the moment I began reading. This mesmerizing sequel to "Silver in the Wood" transported me into an atmospheric, dark fairy tale world that blended adventure, mythology, and a deeply touching love story. As a fan of the first book, I found this installment to be just as enchanting, and I believe newcomers to the duology will be equally enthralled.

The story follows Henry Silver as he reluctantly takes on the mantle of the Wild Man of Greenhollow, embarking on a thrilling quest to find a missing girl in the enigmatic Undersea. I was captivated by the danger, magic, and mythical creatures that populated this incredible realm, which drew me even deeper into the rich folklore and fantasy that the author masterfully weaves.

One aspect of the novel that particularly resonated with me was the love story between Henry Silver and Tobias Finch. The sensitive portrayal of their relationship within the narrative added depth and emotion to the story. I found their connection heartwarming.

The author's bewitching, alluring, and at times, haunting writing style swept me away. The vivid descriptions, well-paced narrative, and immersive world-building made "Drowned Country" a truly exceptional reading experience, and I was completely absorbed in this magical realm of adventure and romance.

In conclusion, "Drowned Country" stole my heart with its captivating and haunting tale of love, magic, mythology, and adventure. The unforgettable characters, evocative themes, and enthralling twists left a lasting impression on me, and I wholeheartedly recommend this sequel to anyone who dares to dive into its magical world.

I rate this novella 5 out of 5 stars.

#DrownedCountry #MagicalAdventure #LoveAndMythology #LGBT #QueerLit #EmilyTesh #SilverInTheWood #Fantasy #Romance

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