A review by bookb1itch
The Empusium by Olga Tokarczuk

challenging mysterious tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

The blurb and publicity for this book promised it to be my jam.  Although it was beautifully well-written, the story didn't deliver the "Horror" promised on the cover.  There was only a vague unease or creeping menace most of the time.  (Except the references to specialty dishes - these really were horrific!) And the goings-on in the woods...  (!) Also, it was a difficult read, because the language was so dense, so I wasn't able to read much at a time, spoiling continuity.  Some really interesting conversations between characters about politics, women, philosophy, but I would have preferred more chills.
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