I Am Made of Death: A Heartfelt Exploration of Horror and Humanity
The moment I cracked open I Am Made of Death by Kelly G. I knew I was in for something special. With high hopes for the finale of this trilogy, I found myself diving into a world that mixed fantasy, horror, and emotional depth in a way that resonated with my very soul. Three days later, as the haunting imagery and unforgettable characters settled in, I felt like I had survived an emotional rollercoaster that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
At its core, this book is a haunting exploration of trauma, identity, and the painful journey of self-acceptance. The story weaves the concept of bones throughout the trilogy in such an intricate way that it leaves a lasting impression. I remember a striking moment when the protagonist reflects on how “the thing inside her is curled up behind her ribs.” This metaphorical embodiment of pain and control was fascinating; it challenged the typical focus on blood and instead used bones to create an eerily visceral experience. The imagery of “a sunken horror wrapped in shipwreck silence” lingered with me long after reading.
The characters truly stole the show. Vivienne is one of the most richly developed protagonists I’ve encountered; her journey through horror and heartache felt so real. One line that hit me hard was about her fragility: “She’d never been held like this before- like she was brittle primrose, and not deadly nightshade.” Kelly captures the nuances of adolescence through Vivienne’s experiences, inspecting the horror not just of monsters within but the monsters of self-loathing and societal expectations. It’s a poignant reminder of how many of us grapple with our own internal beasts.
Then there’s Thomas—oh, Thomas! His blend of humor, emotional intelligence, and vulnerability made him one of my favorite characters in recent memory. I could practically hear him saying, “You can’t expect me to do nothing.” His character arc, shifting from snarky jester to a tender figure of stability for Vivienne, perfectly showcased the emotional complexity of young love amidst chaos. Their relationship dynamics felt so authentic; it was heartwarming and tumultuous all at once. The line, “It’s you and me” encapsulated the type of bond that grows when faced with impossible odds.
The writing style stood out to me, too. Kelly G. crafts her prose with a balance of humor and chilling horror that had me laughing and gasping one moment and sobbing the next. The narrative flows with a palpable rhythm, capturing the urgency of the plot while also allowing for moments of introspection. I mean, who can resist a book that has you laughing out loud while also delivering gut-wrenching lines like, “What if I need you?” It captures the struggle of leaning on someone while simultaneously fearing the vulnerability it demands.
One minor quibble I had was a brief hiccup in Thomas’s character during a chapter where he grapples with his emotions. It felt a touch out of character for someone I had grown to adore. But honestly, this minor flaw barely put a dent in my overall enjoyment of the book.
In conclusion, I Am Made of Death is an evocative read for anyone drawn to stories that blend horror with profound character development. It speaks volumes to those who have ever felt like they’re battling monsters—both literal and metaphorical. Kelly G. has delivered a narrative that lingers in your heart, making you reflect on your own inner battles long after you’ve turned the last page. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those who appreciate intricate storytelling, raw emotion, and a dash of dark fantasy. You won’t just read it; you’ll carry it with you.