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877_cashnow's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts, Mental illness, and Body horror
morganjanedavis's review
4.0
Malina’s condition has progressed, she’s really going downhill. Ward’s concern for his wife and her well-being is growing, the Alzheimer’s is taking a larger toll than he anticipated. But what’s the explanation for the weird change in her TONGUE? Why does Ward feel a deep, instinctive fear of his wife? Is this normal? Ward doesn’t think so. With the help of his grandson, Ward is determined to get to the bottom of his wife’s unusual behavior, before it’s too late…for everyone.
Ooh what a read. I’m not sure why but horror involving the elderly adds an extra layer of suspense and eeriness—I don’t want anything bad to happen to them but also they can be so scary?? This translates so well throughout Malinae. Because Ward and Malinae are both elderly and rely on caregivers, I felt really bad for them as they (Ward mainly) tried to get to the bottom of what was happening in their home. I couldn’t imagine having to have someone else provide my basic needs while trying to solve a mystery in secret, it truly made my heart hurt and ramped up the suspense. Although the “bad guy” was easily distinguishable early on, the book had so many unique elements that it didn’t matter. I was sucked in by the culty elements and the fate of Malina and Ward (and the world???). The ending was executed *perfectly*, giving the reader closure while also remaining ambiguous. @booksasmeals and I discussed and she and I agree it’s the perfect length/pacing to read in one sitting. Highly recommend for when you’re in the mood for something extra original!
Ooh what a read. I’m not sure why but horror involving the elderly adds an extra layer of suspense and eeriness—I don’t want anything bad to happen to them but also they can be so scary?? This translates so well throughout Malinae. Because Ward and Malinae are both elderly and rely on caregivers, I felt really bad for them as they (Ward mainly) tried to get to the bottom of what was happening in their home. I couldn’t imagine having to have someone else provide my basic needs while trying to solve a mystery in secret, it truly made my heart hurt and ramped up the suspense. Although the “bad guy” was easily distinguishable early on, the book had so many unique elements that it didn’t matter. I was sucked in by the culty elements and the fate of Malina and Ward (and the world???). The ending was executed *perfectly*, giving the reader closure while also remaining ambiguous. @booksasmeals and I discussed and she and I agree it’s the perfect length/pacing to read in one sitting. Highly recommend for when you’re in the mood for something extra original!
micahcastle's review
dark
funny
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
4.0
I received a copy of Malinae from the publisher for the possibility of consideration for a Bram Stoker Award.
Malinae is a fast-paced, sometimes humorous, read. It has great dialogue, funny quips, a unique cast of characters, and a solid story.
Highly recommend if you're in the market for a cosmic horror novella.
Malinae is a fast-paced, sometimes humorous, read. It has great dialogue, funny quips, a unique cast of characters, and a solid story.
Highly recommend if you're in the market for a cosmic horror novella.
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