🍂 Book Review 🍂
The Dead Take The A-Train by Cassandra Khaw and Richard Kadrey - 4⭐️
I had a really good time with this book. I knew from the opening scene that this was going to be quite an adventure, and I wasn’t disappointed. Cassandra and Richard did a fantastic job of inventing the NYC magic scene, introducing flawed, but beautiful characters, and creating a story that is more than just cosmic horror. The main plot is about Julie, our MC, who accidentally brings upon herself, and the rest of the world, the wrath of an eldritch god who is bent on destroying everything. She works to undo what has been done alongside her landlord, her gaming buddy, and her childhood friend. We also get to witness the budding relationship emerge between Julie and her childhood friend, Sarah.
My little summary does this book very little justice. If cosmic horror, urban fantasy, magical realism, and lgbtq+ representation are your thing, definitely check out this book! This is the first in a duology, and I look forward to book 2 when it comes out!
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Having just closed the covers on 'The Dead Take The A-Train,' I can honestly say this book left a lasting impression, and I wanted to share a bit more about why it captivated me so much. Beyond just a typical review, I feel like this story deserves a deeper dive, especially for anyone curious about what makes it tick. The blend of genres here is truly masterful. It’s not just a cosmic horror; it’s woven seamlessly with urban fantasy and a touch of magical realism that makes the impossible feel incredibly real. When I think of cosmic horror, I often picture vast, unknowable threats, and this book delivers, but it grounds it in the gritty, vibrant streets of New York City. Imagine Cthulhu-esque entities lurking just beneath the surface of a familiar metropolis – it’s genuinely unsettling and exhilarating. What really stood out was the inventive 'NYC magic scene.' It’s not your typical wizard school or hidden magical society. Instead, the magic feels ancient, dangerous, and deeply integrated into the city’s forgotten corners and underground networks. The authors, Cassandra Khaw and Richard Kadrey, did an incredible job of creating this vivid, atmospheric world. The cover art itself, with its monstrous face, tentacles, and a haunting image of the Statue of Liberty, perfectly encapsulates the vibe. It hints at the surreal and terrifying beauty within, where iconic landmarks become backdrops for unspeakable horrors. This isn't just a backdrop; NYC is a character in itself, pulsing with dark energies and hidden histories. The characters are another strong point. Julie, our protagonist, is refreshingly flawed and relatable, and watching her navigate this terrifying new reality is a journey in itself. Her group of allies – her landlord, gaming buddy, and childhood friend Sarah – feel authentic, and their interactions provide much-needed moments of humanity amidst the chaos. I particularly appreciated the organic development of Julie's relationship with Sarah. The LGBTQ+ representation felt natural and added another layer of depth and heart to a story that could easily have been overwhelmed by its darker elements. It's a testament to the authors' skill that they balance terrifying cosmic threats with such genuinely human connections. If you’re someone who loves a story that pushes genre boundaries, enjoys a dash of queer romance, and appreciates world-building that is both imaginative and unsettling, then you absolutely need to pick this up. It appeals to readers who enjoy dark fantasy with a strong sense of place, and who aren't afraid of encountering truly alien threats. Knowing it’s the first in a duology only makes me more excited for what’s to come. It’s a book that invites you to think beyond the conventional and lose yourself in a uniquely terrifying, yet strangely beautiful, version of New York.
