A review by claire_elek
Butcher by Joyce Carol Oates

challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book is an exploration of power and gender dynamics, and how mediocre white men were able to establish themselves as pioneers through the exploitation of society's most vulnerable. Butcher contains a lot of body horror, which was in no way gratuitous - it was compelling regardless. The protagonist, Dr Weir is loosely based on three individuals whose experimental procedures were considering groundbreaking at the time, but also grossly unethical, cruel, and inhumane.