A review by becandbooks
Odder Still by D.N. Bryn

4.0

Odder Still is an engaging, queer fantasy with a steampunk feel and a plot of political uprising. The story takes place in gorgeously depicted worlds of swamps, beaches and underwater societies and follows Rubem, a reclusive drunk with attachment issues - unless it's with his exotic rescue pets. He is drawn into a whirlwind ride when a parasite decides to make him a host. On a quest to avoid being completely taken over, Rubem elicits the help of a powerful family.

Full of slow-burn romance, unique world-building, and a fierce battle for survival, loyalty and doing the right thing this is a fantastic ride of a story. It is unapologetically inclusive, with main and side characters with queer, trans and disabled identities. An absolute must-read for fantasy lovers chasing books with a heartwarming touch.

→ trigger warnings:

Spoiler

alcohol consumption & abuse, alcoholism, death of an animal (including graphic pet death), gore, mind control, near-drowning, nonconsensual medical experimentation, needles, blood depiction, body horror

Note: Review copy received from NetGalley. This does not impact opinions within this review.

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