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A review by max_audet
Henry Henry by Allen Bratton
dark
sad
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
2.75
I had a hard time with Henry Henry.
This is presented as a queer reimagining of Shakespeare's Henriad, but to me, the purpose of the Henriad is to witness the character's growth. Here, while there were hints of evolution, I feel like the main character didn’t advance much during the story and it was hard to relate to anyone since everyone was unlikeable.
The writing was dense but cohesive and easily the best part of the novel. It keeps me reading to the end even when the storyline seems to stagnate and meander endlessly during the book's middle section.
This is presented as a queer reimagining of Shakespeare's Henriad, but to me, the purpose of the Henriad is to witness the character's growth. Here, while there were hints of evolution, I feel like the main character didn’t advance much during the story and it was hard to relate to anyone since everyone was unlikeable.
The writing was dense but cohesive and easily the best part of the novel. It keeps me reading to the end even when the storyline seems to stagnate and meander endlessly during the book's middle section.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Drug abuse, and Sexual assault
Moderate: Homophobia