A review by alphabetseeds
The Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph White

challenging dark emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I read and loved AJW's first novel and knew I had to this up as well. And, fuck, this novel is horrific. Uncomfortable, bloody, unyielding. I read so much of this book with one hand over my mouth and the other clutching my stomach or over my heart, spellbound and horrified. I viscerally felt Silas' anxiety and confusion, felt the glass, clenched my teeth. This story is powerful in its portrayal of the pain and shame inflicted on those deemed lesser or unworthy or unwell.

But there are also moments of softness and tenderness that break up the claustrophobic violence, and these moments are so important. As the reader, I glimpsed for a better life, a safer life, for Silas and the girls and woman, and I desperately yearned for them to get there. To get out. To be loved and free.

To me, this is a must-read, absolutely recommend, with the caveat to brace yourself and prepare to be haunted.
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