A review by fayexabia_
Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica

dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

The worst thing i heard about this book was the writing style, but personally i found it easier to read because of how simple, or maybe even blunt all the writing was. I heavily disliked the main character, but i believe that was necessary for the plot and in my opinion made it more enjoyable as the reader to experience life as a man who tried to justify his horrible choices, and at parts of the book i even felt myself feel sorry for him, almost as if as the reader im being manipulated into believing Marcos is a good person. I enjoy how the author describes the world and "the transition" early on, and doesnt leave many questions. I thought the ending was excellent, though upsetting, and I wouldn't have seen it coming. 5/5 book, I would recommend if you are not easily disturbed. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Slavery, Grief, Cannibalism

Moderate: Death of parent

Minor: Sexual assault

I dont know if sexual assualt is the right phrase, but the heads do not have vocal chords, nor do they function as humans, so they have no way to consent. One specific scene with Spanel also confused me, as she never consented and Marcos did use force. I dont know for sure, but i thought it was worth mentioning.