First Line:
Carcass. Cut in half. Stunner. Slaughter line. Spray wash.
Summary:
Marcos' life has taken a turn for the worse. His wife has left him at their house alone, his father's dementia is worsening, and he makes a living aiding the slaughter of humans for meat.
A highly infectious virus has rendered all animals unsafe to eat, so the government found a way to provide them with "special meat," a word that distracts from the fact that humans are being bred for meat.
When Marcos is given a live specimen one of the "finest quality," as a gift, he slowly descends a path that can get him slaughtered too.
My Review: NO SPOILERS
Haunting, beautiful, deceptive
I knew what I was getting into with this book, and yet, the ending still managed to catch me off guard. This was so captivating to read as someone who doesn't flinch at gore. I'm sure those who are squeamish will have problems finishing 😅
This book touches on the thin line of separation between humans and animals and makes you think about how close we are to being 'cattle' for slaughter. I loved the short moments of humanity and joy the main character had.
So mesmerizing and beautifully composed!
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Favorite Quote(s):
"He leaves the tannery and feels relief. But then he questions, yet again, why he exposes himself to this. The answer is always the same. He knows why he does this work. Because he's the best and they pay him accordingly, because he doesn't know how to do anything else, and because his Father's health depends on it. There are times when one has to bear the weight of the world."
Page Count
209 Pages
Date Finished:
September 11th 2023
Book Genre:
Horror, Fiction, Dystopia, Science Fiction, Thriller, Adult, Audiobook, Dark, Contemporary, Literary Fiction
Comments