Reading This Brutal House in June 2020 was incredibly timely. Govinden engrosses us in the world of Vogue balls and the African American and Latin American queer community which made them what they are. The narrative focuses on the House Mothers and their desire for justice as the young people they refer to as the … Continue reading Review of This Brutal House, Niven Govinden
Originally published on Reedsy Discovery. The Rocky Orchard is Monier’s fourth novel and a testament to her experience and craft. Monier captures Mazie, the novel’s protagonist, exceptionally. From four years old to her late twenties, Mazie’s characterisation is realistic and charts her growth as a young woman; whilst still reminding us all of the traits … Continue reading Review of The Rocky Orchard, Barbara Monier
STRESS IS AN OPEN DOOR "She is sat at the bus stop, arms crossed, when I reach her. Her eyes lift to mine as she hears my scattered breaths and clunky steps. I see in hers a hate and kindness I cannot untangle. Necklace chains of every emotion she must have felt in the last … Continue reading The Dee Diaries #5
First published on Reedsy Discovery Cherney’s novel is a beautifully written account of Saskia Soyer’s downward spiral after her father’s death. The writing is fluid and buoyant; taking you from one part of Saskia’s story to the next. It isn’t an easy ride, however, as moments like Saskia’s encounters with Rick, substance abuse and Grey, … Continue reading Review of Happy as Larry: A New York Story of Cults, Crushes and Quaaludes, Kaethe Cherney
Although you could consider Dead’s Haven from Nicholas Gagnier a stand alone novel, I personally believe reading at least Founding Fathers beforehand is the best way to approach reading Dead’s Haven. Having read Leonard the Liar, Founding Fathers and Mercy Road, the appearance of Alex Halford, Samantha Wallace, Rupert Smith, Olivia, Hale with long hair … Continue reading Review of Dead’s Haven, Nicholas Gagnier
Syrdal’s Pantheon is a modern novel but of epic proportions; seeking to harness the same storytelling power of Homer’s Odyssey or Virgil’s Aeneid. I found the first two chapters/books a fascinating exploration of the human condition and the daily battles we face, framed in fantasy. The novel as a cohesive whole was perhaps lost on … Continue reading Review of Pantheon, Eric Syrdal
Biscello’s style is new, unique and refreshing. The switch in pace, perspectives and narrative person unravelled a story which has no beginning nor end. It is a snapshot of a moment. The story centres around Pierangela - a troubled soul I could try and compare to characters like Holden Caulfield or Dorian Gray. I won’t, … Continue reading Review of Nocturne Variations, John Biscello
Originally posted on Indie Blu(e). Austin stuns with her debut novel, Magpie in August. A lovingly written narrative about living, dying and the purgatory in between. I’ve been an admirer and reader of Austin’s poetry since late 2016, a little while after she started poemsandparagraphs. Austin always writes honestly with the razor-sharp ability to steal … Continue reading Review of Magpie in August, Kindra M. Austin
