A review by mackinseyjoy
Peach Pit by Kristel Emma Buckley, Molly Llewellyn

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

4.25

 Peach Pit is a collection of sixteen short stories that can each be described as individual villain origin stories, all centered around women. Historically, origin stories for 'bad women' often revolve around tragedy: bad women aren't bad, they are simply victims of bad circumstances.

What I found striking about Peach Pit was just how unsympathetic many of the central characters were (Maps and Mrs. Wrong, I'm looking at you BOTH). Their choices were motivated by greed, lust, or rage. Each writer brings their own specific writing style, making the reading experience more fun.

My favorite stories were Fuckboy Museum, A Scholarship Opportunity, and Aquafina, but all of the stories were unique and horrifying in very different ways. This collection will serve as a starting point for me to explore these authors. This book was deliciously wicked, yet refreshing. Please review my content warnings before reading this book as each story focuses on intense, dark themes.

Thank you so much to Dzanc books for an eARC and happy publication day! 
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