Read an Excerpt From The Faceless Thing We Adore by Hester Steel
A Deep Dive into Hester Steel’s “The Faceless Thing We Adore”
Hester Steel’s “The Faceless Thing We Adore” presents a compelling excerpt that offers a tantalizing glimpse into a queer, feel-good cosmic horror narrative, promising a unique exploration of gaslighting and emotional abuse. While this review is based solely on the provided excerpt, it lays a strong foundation for what appears to be a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel.
Plot Summary and Setting
The excerpt introduces us to a relationship grappling with an unsettling undercurrent. While the specific plot details are not fully revealed, the narrative suggests a dynamic where one character, through subtle manipulation and denial, erodes the other’s sense of reality. The setting, though not explicitly detailed, evokes an atmosphere that could easily lend itself to cosmic horror, hinting at vast, unknown forces or psychological landscapes that mirror internal turmoil. The main characters, implied to be in a close, potentially romantic relationship, are navigating a precarious emotional terrain.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
Based on the excerpt, “The Faceless Thing We Adore” feels like a refreshing and potentially powerful addition to the cosmic horror genre. The promise of a “feel-good” cosmic horror is particularly intriguing, suggesting a narrative that acknowledges the unsettling nature of the universe and human psychology without succumbing to despair. The approach to themes of gaslighting and emotional abuse, framed within a queer context, offers a space for nuanced and relatable storytelling. The excerpt itself sparks a sense of unease and curiosity, hinting at a deeper, more complex narrative waiting to unfold.
Writing Style and Character Development
Hester Steel’s prose in the excerpt is evocative and precise. The language used skillfully captures the subtle nuances of manipulation and the emotional toll it takes. There’s a delicate balance between the everyday and the encroaching sense of the uncanny, which is a hallmark of effective cosmic horror. While character development is necessarily limited in an excerpt, the dynamic between the characters is immediately palpable. The potential for rich character arcs, particularly in how they confront and process the gaslighting, is evident.
Literary Themes and Motifs
The central themes of gaslighting and emotional abuse are clearly at the forefront. The excerpt effectively demonstrates how these insidious forces can warp perception and erode self-trust. The “feel-good” aspect, juxtaposed with these darker themes, suggests an exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and perhaps even healing in the face of adversity. The “cosmic horror” element likely serves as a metaphor for the overwhelming and often incomprehensible nature of psychological manipulation.
Pacing and Structure
The excerpt’s pacing is measured and deliberate, allowing the underlying tension to build gradually. It avoids overt exposition, instead relying on implication and atmosphere to convey the story’s core conflicts. This structure suggests a narrative that prioritizes character interiority and the slow unravelling of psychological truths. The plot holds significant interest due to its unconventional premise, and the slow burn approach seems well-suited to its thematic concerns. There were no parts that felt slow or confusing within the provided sample, rather, it created a compelling desire to read more.
Author’s Use of Language and Vivid Imagery
Steel’s language is a significant strength. The excerpt is rich with imagery that contributes to both the psychological and potentially cosmic dimensions of the story. The ability to create vivid impressions through carefully chosen words suggests a writer who is deeply attuned to the power of language to shape reader experience. While no specific quotes are provided in the prompt to analyze directly, the overall impression is of a writer capable of crafting memorable and impactful prose.
Emotional Impact
The excerpt effectively evokes a sense of disquiet, empathy, and intrigue. The portrayal of gaslighting is likely to resonate with readers who have experienced similar situations, provoking reflection on the nature of trust and perception. The underlying warmth hinted at by the “feel-good” descriptor suggests a potential for moments of genuine emotional connection and catharsis. The exploration of these themes, especially within a queer framework, promises to be deeply moving and thought-provoking for many.
Themes and Messages
The author appears to be conveying a message about the insidious nature of psychological manipulation and the importance of validating one’s own experiences. The queer aspect of the narrative likely adds layers of commentary on societal pressures and the unique challenges faced within marginalized communities. The success of this conveyance will depend on the full novel’s ability to explore these themes with nuance and authenticity.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Unique Premise: The combination of queer representation, feel-good cosmic horror, and themes of gaslighting is highly original and promising.
- Evocative Prose: The excerpt showcases skillful use of language and imagery.
- Thematic Depth: The exploration of complex psychological and social issues suggests a rich and meaningful narrative.
Weaknesses:
- Based solely on the excerpt, it is impossible to identify definitive weaknesses. The full scope of character development, plot resolution, and thematic execution would need to be assessed in the complete novel.
Recommendations and Comparisons
“The Faceless Thing We Adore” would likely appeal to readers who enjoy literary fiction with a speculative edge, particularly those interested in nuanced explorations of relationships and psychological depth. Fans of cosmic horror who appreciate a more character-driven and introspective approach, rather than pure dread, would also find much to appreciate. Readers who enjoy the work of authors like Tamsyn Muir or Catherynne M. Valente, who often blend genre with personal, emotional narratives, might find this novel to be a strong contender. Comparisons to other works by Hester Steel would be beneficial if available, but without further context, it stands as a unique offering.
Conclusion
“The Faceless Thing We Adore” by Hester Steel, as evidenced by this excerpt, presents a captivating and potentially groundbreaking novel. Its ambitious blending of genres and themes promises a reading experience that is both unsettling and uplifting, offering a much-needed perspective on challenging emotional landscapes. The promise of queer representation within this unique framework further enhances its appeal.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
The excerpt leaves a strong positive impression, hinting at a deeply affecting and original work.
Where to Get It
While specific purchase links are not available for this excerpt alone, readers interested in exploring Hester Steel’s work or similar titles can often find them through major online booksellers and independent bookstores. For those interested in digital formats and a wide selection of independent authors, My Ebook is an excellent resource to explore. The full novel, “The Faceless Thing We Adore,” is expected to be a noteworthy addition to your reading list.
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