Book Review: Their Monstrous Hearts by S.A. Turhan
From the moment I stumbled across S.A. Turhan’s Their Monstrous Hearts, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was a book that whispered secrets, beckoning me to uncover layers of intrigue hidden beneath its striking cover. The promise of Gothic fables intertwined with chilling family secrets felt irresistible. As someone who thrives on tales of the eerie and the unknown, this debut novel piqued my curiosity like a fluttering butterfly—beautiful yet potentially treacherous.
At its heart, Their Monstrous Hearts intertwines two narratives: that of Riccardo, a 20-year-old orphan grappling with the weight of an unwritten manuscript, and his grandmother Perihan, whose own story unfolds through a captivating manuscript left behind. When Riccardo inherits his grandmother’s villa and butterfly collection in Milan following her unexpected death, the promise of familial connection quickly spirals into mystery and unease. Turhan expertly encapsulates the allure of familial ties and the shadows they cast; the slow burn of Riccardo’s quest for answers is intoxicating.
Riccardo’s voice, while at times feeling a tad lackluster compared to the grandeur of his grandmother’s narrative, adds essential tension. His struggles as an aspiring writer resonate with readers familiar with the pressures of creativity and the existential dread that often accompanies it. As he dives deeper into Perihan’s manuscript, we see a tangible contrast: her lush, intricate storytelling stands in stark opposition to Riccardo’s hesitant prose. This dichotomy highlights Turhan’s deft handling of narrative perspectives, making the reader acutely aware of the journey’s stakes.
Within the pages of Perihan’s manuscript, the gothic richness surfaces in a spellbinding manner, reminiscent of an Erin Morgenstern tale, cloaked in the rich backdrop of Italian high society. Turhan’s writing shimmers with vivid language, drawing readers into a world that blends dark fantasy with heart-stopping terror. The quote, "Nobody ever suspects the butterfly," serves as a haunting reminder of the ominous undercurrents woven throughout the story. It’s a phrase that lingers like an eerie melody, echoing the theme of hidden horrors that unfold.
What truly sets this book apart is the culmination of the narrative’s gradual build-up, leading to a twist that hits like a thunderclap. Just when you think you have your bearings, the story veers into a realm of existential terror that leaves an indelible mark. This transformation from slow burn to gripping suspense is not just skillfully executed; it’s a testament to Turhan’s promise as a storyteller.
Readers who embrace the slow pacing will find themselves richly rewarded. While Riccardo’s perspective may feel subdued at times, this might just capture the essence of his character—a reflection of his inner turmoil against the backdrop of an enchanting, yet unsettling, world. If you’re drawn to narratives framed by dark family secrets and the eerie beauty of the unknown, this book is a must-read.
In conclusion, Their Monstrous Hearts is not just a debut; it’s an invitation to confront the delicate balance between beauty and horror, family and isolation. For fans of dark fantasy and chilling tales like Mexican Gothic and Midnight Rooms, this one should be on your list. Turhan has laid the groundwork for a thrilling career, and I, for one, eagerly await what comes next.