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Desperate Measures
There's Something in the WoodsAs a virtual prisoner in her suburban DC home, Rhonda faces a chilling reality: she's failed to protect her gay son, Joey, from the brutality of his own father, Max. As Max's violent hatred escalates, Rhonda's maternal instincts scream for her to act before it's too late.
During an emotional phone call, Rhonda's sister, Elizabeth, offers to shelter Rhonda and Joey when they come to her home in West Virginia for Thanksgiving. But they never arrive. On the drive, a blizzard strands the family in a desolate hollow, and Rhonda and Joey are helpless in the face of Max's murderous intent.
But a glimmering light in the forest sparks hope as they realize they are not alone. Salvation! Setting off into the forest, Rhonda prays they're trudging toward rescue because if not, she knows they face certain death at Max's hand.
Praise for Desperate Measures "Themes of justice and revenge entwine in a folk horror story with its own unique horror element. Desperate Measures is a good read for a cold, dark night." —Alma Katsu, author of The Fervor
"Michael Reed's debut novel, Desperate Measures, is a complex potion, made up of myth, trauma, folklore, queerness, magic, good and evil, things that go bump in the night, and an unassailable belief in the healing power of love. It's a story that's as beautiful and unforgiving as the Appalachian mountains themselves. I just loved it." —Eric Peterson, author of Loyalty, Love & Vermouth (winner, 2021 Gay Scribe Award)
During an emotional phone call, Rhonda's sister, Elizabeth, offers to shelter Rhonda and Joey when they come to her home in West Virginia for Thanksgiving. But they never arrive. On the drive, a blizzard strands the family in a desolate hollow, and Rhonda and Joey are helpless in the face of Max's murderous intent.
But a glimmering light in the forest sparks hope as they realize they are not alone. Salvation! Setting off into the forest, Rhonda prays they're trudging toward rescue because if not, she knows they face certain death at Max's hand.
Praise for Desperate Measures "Themes of justice and revenge entwine in a folk horror story with its own unique horror element. Desperate Measures is a good read for a cold, dark night." —Alma Katsu, author of The Fervor
"Michael Reed's debut novel, Desperate Measures, is a complex potion, made up of myth, trauma, folklore, queerness, magic, good and evil, things that go bump in the night, and an unassailable belief in the healing power of love. It's a story that's as beautiful and unforgiving as the Appalachian mountains themselves. I just loved it." —Eric Peterson, author of Loyalty, Love & Vermouth (winner, 2021 Gay Scribe Award)
230 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
November 13, 2024
A queer Appalachian folklore...
I don't know that I have ever read anything like this, it was quite unique. I was sent a copy by the author, Michael Reed, and I am extremely thankful for that. I will say, this book is not going to be for everyone but if you like horror and are looking for some queer fiction, this is like 100% match!
My biggest gripe with this book is that the character you are supposed to hate felt a little over the top and if anyone exists like this in reality...my god, they should be taken off this earth immediately. But alas, this was inevitably the feeling the author wants for you in this story.
I don't know that I have ever read anything like this, it was quite unique. I was sent a copy by the author, Michael Reed, and I am extremely thankful for that. I will say, this book is not going to be for everyone but if you like horror and are looking for some queer fiction, this is like 100% match!
My biggest gripe with this book is that the character you are supposed to hate felt a little over the top and if anyone exists like this in reality...my god, they should be taken off this earth immediately. But alas, this was inevitably the feeling the author wants for you in this story.
September 7, 2025
I stumbled upon this book purely on accident. One of the best accidents this year!!! This book is a great story about mystery & folklore. Beautiful character development. The story grabbed ahold quickly and still hasn't let go. I missed my bedtime twice, but totally worth it!!!
January 31, 2025
Appalachian folklore queer horror? YES PLEASE! Absolutely was not expecting what I received from this very gripping and addictive read. One teeny little gripe regarding one the characters, but otherwise, absolutely LOVED this story.
Full review to come in Cemetery Dance.
Full review to come in Cemetery Dance.
December 27, 2025
This is not my typical read, but I found myself enthralled! It’s unique and captivating. I don’t know much Appalachian folklore, but if it’s this interesting- I need more!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews