A review by cheechisapie
The Devil All the Time by Donald Ray Pollock

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Read this book on a whim after hearing about the Netflix movie and was looking for something spooky to read for the month of October. This book took me by surprise. It was dark, gruesome, yet surprisingly human. I found it challenging getting through some scenes and there were times I had to put the book down to take a break because reading this book genuinely horrified me. Then again, I don't really go around looking for something gory to read. However, if that's your cup of tea then this book will definitely be for you. Despite my weakheartedness, I could not put this book down. I was captivated by Pollock's strong and beautifully written prose. It also helped that the chapters were short and fast-paced so even if I wanted to stop at times, I would tell myself just one more chapter and found myself zooming through this book. He is also able to humanize these vile characters and gets you invested in each of their plots. I think it is a true skill to be able to let his readers feel for these characters even after all their horrific and monstrous deeds. If you are able to get through this deeply disturbing book, you will not be disappointed. 
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