labyrinthine self

by Nicole Mello

Laurel is determined to go on an impulsive camping trip in Mosswood Grove this January. They don't know much about camping, but they do know they need some time away, alone, with only themself for company. A solitary being already, Laurel knows there are worse things in this world than a brief break from it all. As their senses slip away, though, and the woods become an inescapable labyrinth, and a great Creature stalks them through the trees, Laurel must determine whether this hunted, endless purgatory is their worst nightmare or their dream come true.

Genres: Horror, Transgender

185 pages, Hardcover

Published February 21, 2025

About the author

queer storyteller, dark comedian, emotional writer, hopeless romantic, cheerful publisher, horror obsessor, atavistic cryptid, humanity lover, excited creator, chaos advocate, constant learner, everyday appreciator, mistake maker, art enjoyer, professional pretender, and dream weaver, by trade.

author by profession.

nicole currently resides in massachusetts with their husband. they encourage everyone reading this to question everything, be true to themselves, stay hydrated, and treat others with kindness.

Reviews

[Joe Mello · Rating 5 out of 5]

A feral, surreal, horrific and dreamlike tale unlike anything I’ve read before.

[Joshua Hair · Rating 5 out of 5]

labyrinthine self is an odd duck, which I think is exactly what Nicole Mello was going for in writing it. It is about Laurel, who has decided they will go on an impromptu camping trip despite seemingly knowing nothing about surviving in the wild. Shortly into said trip they realize they are being stalked by something. One may assume this turns into a hunter/hunted survival tale, but one would be wrong. labyrinthine self has depth that belies its short page count and is an excellent addition to any library looking for a thoughtful addition with LGBTQ+ rep.

[Seemo · Rating 5 out of 5]

"That’s all they want. Something different. Something—Something that sparks a light inside them, something that gives them heat, something that feels like something. They’re not sure what it is right now, but—when they feel it, they’ll know. They know they’ll know. There has to be something inside the woods. It’s their last resort, their final grasp, their hand outstretched for more."

the characterisation of laurel!! the creature!! the atmosphere!! the mix of both insane and sane-considering-the-situation thoughts and actions!! i have devoured this like [REDACTED] and intend to again

[Gabriel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story is very unmoored, with no time or place existing outside of this moment in the forest. The main character isn't anyone but a vessel for this experience. The imagery of the icy darkness of the forest stretching on forever, with the main character being fully consumed by it, had its appeal. It externalized a certain sense of directionlessness and isolation that gave character to the mindless trek, making it feel like something out of a dream that sticks with you long after waking.
But while the insular nature of the story was purposeful, at times it still left me wanting more substance. When the descriptions that had been evocative became repetitive and when Laurel approached the point of breaking from the dreamlike world, but still did not seem any more defined as a person in their own right.

[Nicole Mello · Rating 5 out of 5]

full disclosure, I did write this. but it still earned five stars from me!