A review by jaylinsoto
Antenora by Dori Lumpkin

dark mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Thank you Amanda Manns, Creature Publishing, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this spellbinding and heart wrenching book, Antenora by Dori Lumpkin.

This book deeply resonated with me. The writing is gorgeous, and I was completely hooked by the storyline. "Antenora" tells the story of Nora, a girl misunderstood and ostracized by her Southern Pentecostal community. While Nora commits disturbing crimes, the true villains are shown to be the hypocritical religious leaders and the dark side of fundamentalist ideology.

The snake symbolism, intertwined with themes of religion was particularly intriguing. The story evokes a "Carrie" vibe but within a Christian context, making it both horrifying and tragic. The exploration of sexuality adds a layer of sadness, highlighting the destructive impact of repressive beliefs. This book masterfully combines gorgeous writing, complex characters, and thought-provoking symbolism, making it a compelling and unforgettable read!! Highly recommend!!