Necessary Evils by Serena Jayne Book Review
Necessary Evils by Serena Jayne Book Review
Jayne weaves a deliciously frightful collection of eighteen short stories guaranteed to disturb. Stories range from short and wicked to longer tales of depravity and terror. Stalkers, slighted lovers, evil men, and venomous women lurk on the pages, ready to strike and fulfill their darkest whims. Whether set in Sin City, a grocery store during the Apocalypse, or darkened bedrooms, danger is never far. Readers beware! Sometimes, evil is necessary.
Speckled throughout the collection are short flash pieces that break up the intensity of the longer tales and allow readers a much appreciated chance to catch their breath. "Unlikeable" takes a quick stab at social media culture while "Banana Bread" delivers a peak into the world of an abusive husband whose days are numbered. Longer stories such as "Chet-Shaped Lure" stick with readers well after the final word, encompassing a world of torture and heartbreak, and "Darkside Effect" mixes science fiction and violence with horror and female empowerment. Additionally, readers will enjoy the unique format of "Best Friend Forever" where the plot is unraveled through personal correspondences between a lawyer and perpetrator. Overall, each story is well developed with memorable characters that will certainly remain firmly implanted into readers’ minds.
Jayne bravely doesn't hold back with disturbing and raw context. Themes of betrayal, abuse and retribution, heartache, lust, and greed are regularly featured. While some may find the violence against women excessive, others will recognize and revel the characters' resilience and determination to survive. The stories fly by as each does a fantastic job of digging deep into the reader’s brain and not letting go. Horror fans looking for twisted plots and wicked characters will enjoy this quick paced collection.
Format
186 pages, Paperback
Published
February 20, 2022 by Unnerving
ISBN
9781989206850 (ISBN10: 1989206859)
