(Reviewed by JD Jung)
I’m still trying to figure out why I enjoyed Earth Angel so much, and I suspect that might be part of my fascination with this offbeat collection. Seventeen weird, dark stories that seem to pull you in with a subtle yet undeniable grip. There’s something compelling about how these bizarre, often repulsive characters are presented as “normal” by the narrator. Even when the protagonists are wronged or subjected to absurd circumstances, their responses feel strangely… unremarkable. Like they’ve grown numb to the abnormalities around them.
The stories feature a range of quirky, unsettling situations: A PR firm that represents a terrorist group, a woman who hires a company to throw her a thirtieth birthday slumber party that descends into chaos, a CEO who destroys the environment and conducts dubious experiments on dogs (sadly, too close to reality in some ways), an eccentric man giving illegal Hollywood tours, and a famous child actor who grows into a sadistic adult. There’s so much more, and it’s difficult to name a favorite piece. You’ll need to remember these characters when you first encounter them, as some will reappear in other stories. Fortunately, they are so memorable, but in a bad way, that they won’t be difficult to track.
The writing is sharp, with a deadpan sense of humor that shines through the dark absurdity of each plot. You’re left with a mix of discomfort and fascination, as if you’ve uncovered something you can’t look away from, even if it’s far from pleasant. I love the irreverence, and it’s so weird in a way that keeps you hooked.
I found myself not wanting to put it down, even after finishing the book. Earth Angel feels like a rare gem that’s both strange and alluring. I’m eager for more from this author.
