Ali The Hag

Someone You Can Build a Nest In is the sweetest, most disgusting book I've ever read. John Wiswell's story of a eldritch monster stumbling into a fantasy romance is, somehow, both heartwarming and foul.

The way Wiswell weaves romance into a human-eating monster's psyche is truly remarkable, and a testament to himself as a storyteller & character builder. I loved Shesheshen immediately, relating greatly to her repulsion of social courtesies & disregard to pointless societal standards. Following her into love & danger was a journey I'm so thankful I got to experience.

While this novel spends most of the time laughing at its own absurdity, there is also a deeper, bigger, gentler message about grief, abuse, & the uniquely human terror of Being Known. This story is moving, compassionate, & made with lots of love.

One of my favorite reads of the year. A wonderful, fantastical story about magic books, love, loss, pain, time travel, & friendship. Truly such a joy to read, & definitely will be in my rotation of comfort reads.

Special thank you to my friend Atheena, who got me this book for my birthday this year. I wouldn't have gotten to experience it without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you