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A review by kkenna7
Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng by Kylie Lee Baker
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
*Thank you to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for the ALC! Opinions are my own.*
I loved this from minute one. The tension built between Cora and Delilah feels so real and tangible. Sisterly relationships are ones that are deeply unique. You can't possibly know that dynamic unless you have a sister yourself. Then, there's the layers to the horror within this novel. You have gore, certainly. But there are paranormal elements as well. And there is *absolutely* psychological and social horror at play. It comes at you from all angles.
The true marvel is that despite all of these layers, Kylie Lee Baker never once struggles to balance them all. There was no point where I felt like the plot was muddled or convoluted. This book never feels like it's trying too hard. It forces you to face the horrors head-on without ever being gratuitous.
This is one I'd recommend to a wide range of people too. Just enough crime-solving for the mystery crowd. The horror is horrifying enough for the horror fans, but not so inaccessible that general fiction enjoyers or other miscellaneous recommendation seekers might be put off.
This novel is incisive, unflinching, and honest. It never lets up and for good reason; it has something important to say. Highly recommend a look at this one.
I loved this from minute one. The tension built between Cora and Delilah feels so real and tangible. Sisterly relationships are ones that are deeply unique. You can't possibly know that dynamic unless you have a sister yourself. Then, there's the layers to the horror within this novel. You have gore, certainly. But there are paranormal elements as well. And there is *absolutely* psychological and social horror at play. It comes at you from all angles.
The true marvel is that despite all of these layers, Kylie Lee Baker never once struggles to balance them all. There was no point where I felt like the plot was muddled or convoluted. This book never feels like it's trying too hard. It forces you to face the horrors head-on without ever being gratuitous.
This is one I'd recommend to a wide range of people too. Just enough crime-solving for the mystery crowd. The horror is horrifying enough for the horror fans, but not so inaccessible that general fiction enjoyers or other miscellaneous recommendation seekers might be put off.
This novel is incisive, unflinching, and honest. It never lets up and for good reason; it has something important to say. Highly recommend a look at this one.