AJ > Recent Status Updates

Good news! The book has diverged from being the derivative work that I expected (around 30-35% of the way through; pp. 209-247). Vis is still very much Darrow of Lykos and Fang Runin, but the plot has strongly come into it‘s own. I am no longer derisive, but I am still enjoying the book plenty.

On another note all the measurements are imperial (miles, lbs), but the spelling is British (honour, centre)…

I am unfortunately enjoying this so far. It’s well written, and the Le Guin-esque world-building is strong.
I say unfortunately because I am really struggling with the Red Rising similarities, which are turning this into a blatant derivative (so far). I’ve heard that it diverges, but even smaller details - down to ‘extrapolational thinking’ and pyramids - are pushing the benefit of the doubt… we will see.

There is plot! We have developed into an overarching meta-plot in this anthology-esque novel, and all elements of horror are still standing firm.

Somewhat thin plot and relatively basic characterization, this is more of a folk horror anthology tied into an overarching setting and theme. That being said, I love folk horror and everything that comes with it, so this is such a cozy and comforting book for me to indulge in after a long day. Base notes of Old Gods of Appalachia and top notes of The Skull by Jon Klassen and Swiss Army Man (2016).

Ohh man this book is tough to stick with so far… will see how far I get before a DNF. More info when I finish (or decide not to).

I am fucking terrified