Ali Seay

Man, this book was a LOT of fun. It immediately sets us up with our two main characters and throws us into the action. I like how the story switches back and forth between the perspectives of Jack and Meg, giving us insight into their background and motivations. I definitely was rooting for Meg the whole time and, despite them both being serial killers, I felt more empathy for her character. Jack is also painted in broader strokes and not given the same character development, but I wasn't too bothered by for what this is.

I love the whole killer vs killer premise, and when Meg and Jack finally meet you have no idea how the story is going to go. Sure they're attracted to one another, but they also want to kill each other. This makes for great underlying suspense as you never know when things are going to pop off.

I also love the stripped down nature of the book, especially in the second half: two characters at odds in a confined setting using whatever objects are around them to survive. I think it allows for more creativity, dark comedy, and tension in the final act (which, without spoiling anything, is GREAT). There's plenty of violence, as to be expected, but there's also humorous moments I did not expect. I actually laughed out loud at the scene where Jack and Meg meet for the first time.

I tried not to say "fun" too many times in this review, but that's my main take away. It's one of those stories that has some genre tropes but manages to elevate beyond with grim humor and shocking surprises. Based purely on feeling, and not actual plot details, it makes me think of cross between Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and Green Room, or The Nice Guys and Don't Breath. Does that make sense? Probably not haha.… (plus d'informations)

Loved this dark novella! Stories about libraries and books (especially powerful books that can do shit) are among some of my favorites. When I found out this one was about an entity in an old book I had to read it. So glad I did. Wonderful writing, stunning descriptions of the book and the terrifying lady with antlers and claws, and a really interesting plot really cemented my enjoyment of this book. Personally think this is a story that could be revisited by the author as the ending is left wide open. If that happens I will absolutely be here for it.

Also, I will be adopting a black cat some day and I will 100% be naming it Solace. Such a great name! I would like to personally thank Ali Seay for keeping the violence that we were shown be against the humans only.

Would recommend!… (plus d'informations)