I’m still processing what I just read. This book truly embodies the essence of a queer thriller—not in the Michael Jackson sense, but as a gripping and genre-defining narrative. The story centers on Jonah Keller, an aspiring playwright who leaves his small-town religious upbringing to carve out a name for himself in New York City. However, he quickly finds that achieving recognition and affording the city’s high cost of living is a daunting challenge.

Jonah's struggles lead him to pursue a relationship with Richard Shriver, an established older man, aka Daddy. Jonah’s initial success in wooing Richard allows him to quit his waiting job and join Richard at his summer estate, ostensibly to focus on his writing. But this is where the story takes a dark and unexpected turn, as the idyllic setting reveals sinister secrets. What follows is a harrowing journey through a labyrinth of fear and suspense, with events that resonate for years to come.

Be warned, this novel delves into heavy and potentially triggering topics, including sexual violence, trauma, religion, non-consent, suicide, death, conversion therapy, and homophobia. The author navigates these complex themes adeptly, weaving them into a compelling and chilling narrative. Personally, I found the frequent references to religion challenging, though this is more of a personal sensitivity than a critique of the writing itself.

In conclusion, this dark queer thriller is not for everyone, but if you appreciate a mystery with gay protagonists and a penchant for suspense, it’s definitely worth a read. Because after all, “desire places people in dangerous positions”.

3.5 ⭐️