Review: Victorian Psycho

4 stars. It's not like we haven't seen this before... in many shapes and sizes. But this one effectively - delightfully - evokes its granddaddy in all the ways that matter. Consider me deeply impressed. And disgusted. 

The Victorian psycho in question is Winifred Notty, newly appointed governess to the Pound children at Ensor House. Her wards, Andrew and Drusilla, are insufferable, though nothing compared to their dreadful parents. But Miss Notty is full of surprises, and secrets, and when guests arrive for the Christmas holiday, bloody chaos ensues.

Sharp and clever in so many ways, Victorian Psycho is a great time. It pulls a lot from the classic: the protagonist’s topsy turvy grasp on reality, dark and creative kills, etc., but this book is shorter, tighter, and simpler than its American predecessor. It still manages to weave a rich tapestry of disturbing characters. Nobody is spared by the murderess, or the author. And it's hilarious.

Check TWs. I can't recall having read a more graphic book.

Victorian Psycho on: Amazon | Bookshop.org | Goodreads