Who Would Like This Book:
Black Sheep is a witty, offbeat blend of dark humor, family dysfunction, and cult horror that makes for a genuinely fun and fast read. Rachel Harrison's snarky voice and sharp dialogue shine through her relatable, flawed main character, Vesper, whose struggle with family, faith, and self-identity will resonate with anyone who loves quirky, character-driven horror with a dash of heart. Fans of Grady Hendrix, quirky cult stories, or those curious about unconventional takes on religion and family drama will enjoy this one - especially if you like your chills with a side of laughs.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers might find the plot twists predictable, especially if they're seasoned in the horror or cult fiction genres. If you prefer your horror scary rather than funny, or get frustrated by protagonists who are a bit too sarcastic or self-absorbed, this tone might not land for you. Plus, those looking for deeply fleshed-out side characters might crave more complexity than what’s offered by its first-person style. It's more cozy horror than full-on nightmare fuel, so hardcore horror fans may be left wanting.
About:
'Black Sheep' by Rachel Harrison follows the story of Vesper, a young woman who is disenchanted with her life working at a chain restaurant. After receiving a wedding invitation from her ex-boyfriend and best friend, she is intrigued to return home to a small village that is actually a Satanic cult called Hell's Gate. As she navigates her family dynamics, particularly her cold and non-loving mother who is a famous horror movie actress, Vesper begins to unravel her past and make realizations about her identity and desires. The plot unfolds delicately, revealing little tidbits that keep the reader wondering how they fit into the big picture, while the writing style combines elements of humor, darkness, and relatability.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
'Black Sheep' has medium content warnings, including references to past trauma, family dysfunction, and themes surrounding cults.
Has Romance?
The book contains a moderate level of romance, primarily revolving around the protagonist's past relationships and the emotional complexities tied to returning home.
From The Publisher:
A New York Times Best Horror Book of the Year
A cynical twentysomething must confront her unconventional family's dark secrets in this fiery, irreverent horror novel from the author of Such Sharp Teeth and Cackle .
Nobody has a "normal" family, but Vesper Wright's is truly...something else. Vesper left home at eighteen and never looked back-mostly because she was told that leaving the staunchly religious community she grew up in meant she couldn't return. But then an envelope arrives on her doorstep.
Inside is an invitation to the wedding of Vesper's beloved cousin Rosie. It's to be hosted at the family farm. Have they made an exception to the rule? It wouldn't be the first time Vesper's been given special treatment. Is the invite a sweet gesture? An olive branch? A trap? Doesn't matter. Something inside her insists she go to the wedding. Even if it means returning to the toxic environment she escaped. Even if it means reuniting with her mother, Constance, a former horror film star and forever ice queen.
When Vesper's homecoming exhumes a terrifying secret, she's forced to reckon with her family's beliefs and her own crisis of faith in this deliciously sinister novel that explores the way family ties can bind us as we struggle to find our place in the world.
Ratings (39)
Incredible (2) | |
Loved It (15) | |
Liked It (11) | |
It Was OK (8) | |
Did Not Like (3) |
Reader Stats (117):
Read It (41) | |
Want To Read (69) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (6) |
1 comment(s)
I understand that the mother had a important part, but I did not need the repetitive Mommy issues hitting me every other page and honestly, the cult could’ve been better
What can you read after
Black Sheep?
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