A review by fruitjuiceandfigs
Stag Dance: A Novel & Stories by Torrey Peters

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

5.0

I wasn't sure to expect from this since I haven't yet read Detransition, Baby, and I had heard a lot of mixed reviews, however this quickly became one of my favourite books I've ever read! But, if you aren't a fan of literary prose or creepy/gory elements, I can understand why this book isn't for you.

I found this book almost impossible to put down, and I love that Peters doesn't shy away from writing mean or flawed trans characters. I enjoyed all of the stories, but if I had to choose a favourite it would definitely be the titular novel; the isolated forest setting and hypermasculine environment made the perfect setting for an exploration of femininity and trans sisterhood. I also enjoyed The Chaser being told from the perspective of a chaser, seeing how he justified his actions to himself really took the story in an interesting direction. Be aware, however, that this is the story which contains extreme violence against, and the death of an animal.

I will definitely be buying my own copy so that I can reread in the future!
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