Shadows of the Past, Echoes of the Future
In the gaslit streets of turn-of-the-century Paris, where the shadows of the past linger and the promise of a new era beckons, Susan J Morris weaves a captivating tale that breathes fresh life into the gothic genre. “Strange Beasts” by Susan J Morris is a delightful concoction of historical fantasy and puzzle-box mystery, seamlessly blending the world of Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes universe. Yet, this is no mere pastiche. Morris crafts a story that is uniquely her own, exploring themes of feminine power, trust, and the monstrous nature that lurks within us all.
A Dance of Light and Shadow: Plot and Pacing
The Beast Unleashed
As Paris teeters on the brink of a new century, a series of gruesome murders rocks the city’s elite. Enter Samantha Harker, daughter of the famed vampire slayer, now a researcher for the Royal Society for the Study of Abnormal Phenomena. Sam harbors a secret of her own—she’s a channel, capable of glimpsing the minds of monsters. This power, both a gift and a curse, thrusts her into the heart of the investigation.
An Unlikely Partnership
Sam finds herself paired with the enigmatic Dr. Helena Moriarty, daughter of Sherlock Holmes’ nemesis. Their partnership is fraught with tension from the start, as Hel’s previous partners have met mysterious ends. As they delve deeper into the case, navigating the opulent salons and treacherous catacombs of Paris, Sam and Hel must confront not only the beast they hunt but also their growing attraction to each other.
Morris expertly balances the pacing of the novel, alternating between heart-pounding action sequences and quieter moments of character development. The plot unfolds like a finely crafted timepiece, each revelation clicking into place with satisfying precision. Readers will find themselves eagerly turning pages, desperate to unravel the mystery alongside Sam and Hel.
Monsters in the Mirror: Characters and Themes
Samantha Harker: A Reluctant Heroine
Sam is a refreshingly complex protagonist. Her struggle with her channeling abilities mirrors the broader theme of societal expectations placed on women. Morris deftly explores the dichotomy between Sam’s intellectual prowess and her self-doubt, creating a character that readers will readily empathize with and root for.
Helena Moriarty: The Enigmatic Detective
Hel serves as the perfect foil to Sam. Brilliant and aloof, she carries the weight of her family’s legacy and the suspicion of her colleagues. Morris peels back Hel’s layers gradually, revealing a character of surprising depth and vulnerability beneath her prickly exterior.
The Beast Within
The titular “Strange Beasts” are more than mere plot devices. They serve as a potent metaphor for the suppressed desires and rage that society forces us to contain. Morris challenges readers to consider what truly makes a monster – is it the creature that stalks the night, or the societal structures that create them?
A Tapestry of Mystery: World-Building and Atmosphere
Morris excels in bringing turn-of-the-century Paris to life. The city becomes a character in its own right, from the glittering salons of the elite to the dank, bone-lined catacombs beneath. The author’s attention to historical detail is impeccable, seamlessly blending fact and fiction to create a world that feels both familiar and fantastical.
The supernatural elements are integrated organically into this historical setting. Morris’s take on vampires, werewolves, and other creatures of the night feels fresh and original, while still paying homage to the gothic traditions that inspired them.
Love in the Time of Monsters: Romance and Relationships
The slow-burn romance between Sam and Hel is a highlight of the novel. Morris crafts their relationship with a deft touch, allowing it to develop naturally amidst the chaos of the investigation. Their growing trust and mutual respect form the emotional core of the story, adding depth to the overall narrative.
The Devil in the Details: Writing Style and Prose
Morris’s prose is a joy to read, striking a perfect balance between atmospheric description and propulsive narrative. Her dialogue crackles with wit and tension, bringing the characters vividly to life. Particularly noteworthy is her ability to capture the distinct voices of Sam and Hel, each with their own unique cadence and perspective.
A New Classic in the Making: Final Thoughts
“Strange Beasts” by Susan J Morris is a triumph of genre-blending fiction. Morris has crafted a novel that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy, gothic horror, and mystery alike. Her exploration of feminine power and societal expectations resonates strongly in our current cultural moment, while never feeling heavy-handed or preachy.
For readers familiar with the works that inspired it, “Strange Beasts” offers a delightful game of spot-the-reference. However, prior knowledge of Dracula or Sherlock Holmes is by no means necessary to enjoy this richly imagined tale.
As a debut novel, “Strange Beasts” announces Susan J Morris as a formidable new voice in fantasy literature. It stands confidently alongside other recent gothic revivals like Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s “Mexican Gothic” or Susanna Clarke’s “Piranesi,” while carving out its own unique niche.
Strengths:
- Richly detailed historical setting
- Complex, well-developed characters
- Intriguing mystery plot
- Thoughtful exploration of themes
- Engaging prose and dialogue
Areas for Improvement:
- Some readers may find the pacing slow in the early chapters
- A few plot threads feel slightly underdeveloped
Who Should Read This Book?
- Fans of historical fantasy and gothic literature
- Mystery lovers who enjoy a supernatural twist
- Readers interested in feminist reinterpretations of classic stories
- Anyone looking for a richly imagined, character-driven adventure
In Conclusion: A Beastly Good Time
“Strange Beasts” is a captivating debut that promises great things from Susan J Morris. With its blend of mystery, romance, and supernatural thrills, it offers something for a wide range of readers. Morris has created a world that begs to be revisited, leaving us eagerly anticipating what strange and wonderful tales she might conjure next. Whether you’re a longtime fan of gothic literature or new to the genre, “Strange Beasts” is sure to cast its spell on you.
