It seems like forever since I last sat at my keyboard, attempting to write anything, least of all a book review. But thankfully things have somewhat settled down around my household (not so much in the country or world, but I know I have no control over others and it’s best for my mental well-being and blood pressure to avoid news channels and certain social media for now). And with the persistent spring rains and cooler weather that just won’t change over to summerlike temps I’ve had a lot of reading time on my hands!
The Week in Books
Kind Nepenthe by Matthew Brockmeyer — 4.5 out of 5 stars
In literature, nepenthe is used to describe a drug or drink that brings forgetfulness or “chases away sorrow.” Very fitting title for this outstanding novel set in modern Northern California. Deep in the forested mountains is another world, one of outlaws and drugs, not a place for the faint of heart. A few of the characters include a young mother trying to create a better life for her child, an ex-con trying to change his ways, and his son who is hell-bent on revenge. Oh, and there’s ghosts, too! I would describe this as noir meets the paranormal…and it’s a very good mix.
Penance by Kanae Minato — 4.5 out of 5 stars
Five young girls encounter a stranger at a local park. One of the girls never makes it home. Fifteen years later, the now-grown young women tell their stories of what happened that day, and how their own guilt and other feelings, coupled with the curse put upon them by their friend’s grieving mother, has affected their lives (with some surprising outcomes). Wow, this book! I went into it totally blind, based on a recommendation from a goodreads friend, and devoured it in two short sittings. The various POV narratives work well here, as there is not a constant jumping around. Each characters voice is distinct, and the writing (and translation) is spot-on. Powerful story, highly recommend.
Dead Silence by S.A. Barnes — 4 out of 5 stars
A repair crew in outer space stumble upon a missing luxury spaceliner that had been missing for twenty years. After deciding to claim the ship as salvage, they board the vessel, only to discover the horrors within. The story gives off total Alien vibes, but (spoiler alert) there are no exploding alien pods or creatures breaking their way out of human torsos. It’s fast-paced and addictive reading, and the jump scares were great (hey, if I can feel a jump scare when reading, you know it’s pretty darn good). Perfect for sci-fi and horror fans.
Just Like Mother by Anne Heltzel — 3.5 out of 5 stars
Maeve and her cousin Andrea were raised in a cult known as Mother Collective. After an escape/rescue, Maeve found a home with a new family and lost contact with Andrea until many years later. Will reconnecting with her cousin be a good thing for Maeve or will her past come back to haunt her? I’d label this more as a psychological thriller with hints of horror (because the thought of a room full of creepy dolls is definitely horrific). I enjoyed the story well enough, but Maeve was just too wishy-washy for me. I don’t mind unlikeable, unreliable MC’s, but I just couldn’t muster up enough “give a crap” to care about her and her outcome.
Novellas, Short Stories, and Anthologies
Beautiful Atrocities by Ross Jeffery — 5 out of 5 stars
I don’t think I’ve ever given the full five stars to a collection/anthology before, but this one totally deserves every star! Ross Jeffery’s writing is loaded with mood and each disturbing tale draws you in and doesn’t let go, even after the last sentence. I still can’t stop thinking about a few of these dark stories. Highly recommend.
Stargazers by LP Hernandez — 4 out of 5 stars
Something strange is happening. People are drawn out of their houses late at night to gaze up at the stars. Then these people, the Stargazers, start walking…but where are they going? What is happening?? Focusing on a war vet named Henry and his wife and child, LP Hernandez weaves a tale of societal breakdown as the Stargazers follow some unnamed force. Fast-paced and absorbing read, I really enjoyed this one…but I was left wanting more! I could totally see this being the first in a duology of sorts (hint, hint!). Great afternoon read, especially for fans of apocalyptic horror.
Stay safe, and Happy Reading!