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This abstract horror blew my mind in the best possible way.

This book is a must read if you like: Abstract art, unreliable narrator, dual time narratives, Japanese history, and unique storylines and relationships.

My Thoughts

This book has a pervasive intense feeling. To the point that, even though I wanted so badly to know what happened I had to take a break after 4 hours. But first, back to the beginning.

I found an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at used bookstore (they were not selling it, it was in a special section if people were interested). I read the back and snapped it up.

Then it sat on my shelf until I met an Australian bookstagrammer who absolutely LOVES Kylie Lee Baker. I started this book and binged almost the first half in one day and then had to take a break. It is an intense, complex, incredibly detailed story so I took it rest in small bite sized chunks… and re-listened to some things.

As I read I could see this complex fishtail plait coming together…but I couldn’t possibly understand how it could resolve. And I never could have conceived an ending that wrapped everything together in a nice bow…but left you thinking and speculating.

While extremely gore and trauma-packed, this book was very much my vibe. The abstract writing style took me back to studying theatre of the Absurd. I didn’t realize how much I missed it. The complex storyline drew me in completely.

One of the most unique things about this book is how she resolves the story from the beginning, but you will have to read it to understand what that means.

If you are going to pick up this book please read the trauma warnings. It is not for children as it deals with complex psychological issues and family trauma. It also has some pretty graphic scenes. You can see more details below.

As usual, I very much enjoyed the narrator and I thought she fit perfectly with story and after completing it I understand having only a female narrator.

If you are in the mood for a book that will break you and heal you, a book you can sink your teeth into, this is a fabulous read.