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Book Review
Oct. 1st, 2019 01:27 pmDaughters Unto Devils
by Amy Lukavics
This creepy YA horror novel centers on Amanda Verner, eldest child of a 19th century pioneer family. After a very harsh winter in their small mountain cabin, the Verners decide to move down to the plains in hopes of better conditions and a fresh start. Amanda hopes to leave behind her memories of the terrifying cabin fever induced visions she experienced and of the boy she had a dalliance with and whose child she is now carrying. Unfortunately, the new home on the prairie comes with its own horrors and menace.
Daughters Unto Devils was a very slow burn, but the last third of the book really delivers. It's by turns creepy and terrifying. While the short length of the book precludes deep explorations of character, I did find Amanda relatable and compelling as a teenager who has gone through some traumatic experiences and is fighting to maintain her grip. I also loved the way Lukavics deftly sidesteps a bad horror cliche by giving the character who makes a really foolish decision a history of similar missteps.
by Amy Lukavics
This creepy YA horror novel centers on Amanda Verner, eldest child of a 19th century pioneer family. After a very harsh winter in their small mountain cabin, the Verners decide to move down to the plains in hopes of better conditions and a fresh start. Amanda hopes to leave behind her memories of the terrifying cabin fever induced visions she experienced and of the boy she had a dalliance with and whose child she is now carrying. Unfortunately, the new home on the prairie comes with its own horrors and menace.
Daughters Unto Devils was a very slow burn, but the last third of the book really delivers. It's by turns creepy and terrifying. While the short length of the book precludes deep explorations of character, I did find Amanda relatable and compelling as a teenager who has gone through some traumatic experiences and is fighting to maintain her grip. I also loved the way Lukavics deftly sidesteps a bad horror cliche by giving the character who makes a really foolish decision a history of similar missteps.
