A review by fouillis
Oddbody by Rose Keating

challenging dark mysterious fast-paced

4.0

Oddbody is one of the weirdest books I’ve read lately, and I really enjoyed it.

This short story collection explores the strangeness of being in a body, especially as a woman, and mixes everyday feelings (shame, desire, loneliness) with surreal or disturbing events. A woman lays eggs during her breakfast shift, someone has wings surgically attached, and there’s even a ghost ex. Yes, it’s that kind of book… and somehow, it all works.

The stories are short, sharp, and deeply atmospheric. They reminded me of Raw or Titane, or even some Cronenberg films: grotesque but also emotional. I’m not sure I caught all the deeper meanings, but I was totally immersed in the writing and tone.

My favorites were “Eggshells” and “Bela Lugosi is Not Dead”; both stayed with me long after finishing. If you like strange, feminist, body-focused fiction that makes you feel things (and squirm a little), this is a great pick.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.