The Bayou

There is a luscious, lurid quality to The Bayou by Arden Powell. It is as if the reader is peeping into the characters' private moments, mainly those of the photographer protagonist, Eugene. Powell's descriptions are dark and sweltering. I felt a little dirty and careworn after reading some passages, as if the words on the page transferred themselves to my skin. It is quite a talent to show readers this version of the 1950s small town of Louisiana.

My only issue with this gothic story is that sometimes the language is incredible; you feel like you are there staring down gators or sweat is running down the middle of your back. But sometimes, it seems like it switches to very “tell” heavy descriptions. These are pretty jolting and in sharp contrast to other heavy “show” descriptions in the story. Because of the contrast, it feels uneven.

However, sticklers aside, this is beautifully written and would be a perfect Halloween read to get you in the spirit. Check it out