A review by voxvenati
The Divine Flesh by Drew Huff

dark emotional funny sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A fascinating bit of SFF horror. 

It whispered, Drink of Me and be at peace. Eat of My-
(Divine Flesh)

The prose is quirky, interesting, has a good, chewy texture; the characters are unique and so very flawed; and the lore is plentiful, engaging, strange. In some ways, I wanted so much more — more world building, more lore — but I think the author does a nice job of keeping the focus on current events. 

"Show me what's wrong, and I will find it. Tell me how you died, and I will speak for you, because you can't anymore. If there's a who, show me, and I will find whatever bits they left behind."

Equal parts body horror, horny, and heartfelt, I loved the whiplash between POVs, and you get many. And unlike some books, each character lends something to the narrative. The only detractor is that the pacing does falter toward the middle before picking up again for the last part of the story. 

Some people have mommy issues, some have daddy issues, but everyone has God issues.

For all the eldrich horrors, gods, and abominations, this is really a story about what it means to be human. Is happiness — true or otherwise — worth giving up the things that make you truly you? For all your despicable actions, can you still be redeemed? Can god be killed? The themes were delightful and unexpected. For anyone into religious types of horror, and who isn’t squeamish, this one is for you. 

All opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in return for my honest review.