kcraig73's reviews
59 reviews

Brave New World Revisited by Aldous Huxley

challenging reflective medium-paced

4.0

More excellent work from Aldous Huxley. A close analysis of the methods of control used in Brave New World, this book is slightly terrifying and depressing but shows off some of Huxley’s philosophical work nicely. Huxley’s views on genetic manipulation and eugenics are…dated to be sure. Otherwise, the concepts of the book hold up even today.

The Doors of Perception and Heaven and Hell by Aldous Huxley

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informative inspiring slow-paced

4.0

A rare non-fiction 4 star read for me. As usual, I find Huxley’s work compelling and, to use his word, transporting. A great perspective on the use of psychedelics and hallucinogens. I can see how Huxley inspired so many to explore the mind’s “antipodes”. Heaven and Hell is a great addition to this work and provides a compelling insight to Huxley’s speculations and ruminations on religion and spirituality. You get a sense from him that he was exploring these options with questions but an open mind to possibility, a perspective that is refreshing in the intellectual and academic community. This works continues to prove Huxley to be one of my favorite writers of all time (fortunate for me that he was so prolific).

The Case Against Satan by Ray Russell

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challenging dark mysterious medium-paced

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

4.0

The pacing of this story is spot on. Ray Russell approaches the matter of exorcism with an air of grace that attracts believers and non-believers alike. The internal conflicts of the characters were very well formed. I also found the relationship between Father Gregory and the Bishop to be delightful.

Come Closer by Sara Gran

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dark tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Absolutely thrilling. This book genuinely scared me. The fast paced spiral into complete insanity, along with the insidious and beautiful nature of Amanda’s possession is completely captivating. This book grabbed me by the throat from the first page and it still hasn’t let go. I absolutely loved it.

Content Warnings

Man, Fuck This House by Brian Asman

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dark funny medium-paced

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

4.0

Is this book good? No. Did I like it? Yes. Takes an absolute wild left turn in the last 1/4 of the book but still enjoyable despite jumping the shark.

Content Warnings