The Monsters We Defy

Updated review: Since I was reading to Penelope's new release, I wanted to relisten to this one. In a world where the spirits roam, Enigmas offer the desperate charms and tricks, and ancestors watch over their loved ones, Clara Johnson was born with the sight. She's vowed never again to use her charm, but when her poorer coworkers and neighbors go missing, what will she do to save them? Followed by the spirit of her grandmother, Mama Octavia, and her roommate, Zelda, who can thieve like it's a gift, Clara sets off on a mission to put together a charmed, ragtag crew who will hopefully help save her community and maybe even save her too.

This historical fiction fantasy will make you feel like you're in 1920's DC, US, with guest star appearances by big names from the time. With lovable characters and characters you'll love to hate, Penelope created a story that is fun and joyful in a bustling backdrop of the Harlem Renaissance while showcasing classism and hinting to colorism, racism, hate and Jim Crow segregation. The plot and pace will keep you engaged with a mystery, loads of humorous dialogue, a smidge of satisfying romance and a burgeoning found family that peels back the layers of shame and regret. This is a must read for anyone who enjoys magical realism, urban fantasy, paranormal or historical fiction. Anyone who likes the arts will likely want to check this out too.

I normally don't like books set in the 20's, but I LOVED every. single. thing. about this book. The lore explored in this and the mystery around what was happening to people both hooked me from the beginning. Then Penelope takes you on a ride and it was such a fun and enjoyable read overall. I adored every character, well except for the snobs we meet, but they are all written fabulously and I especially adored Clara. What was the most impressive is that she felt like a real woman, as imperfect and exceptional, even with her gift and charm. And I wish I had such a boisterous and brave (and a bit reckless) roommate as Zelda, who absolutely shines and got quite a few chuckles out of me. This is multi-POV, but just to help explain some of the backstory of our crew while keeping the main focus on Clara. I'm not saying the book is completely light, there are references to the KKK, slavery and it is clearly the time of Jim Crow. The characters mention they have to navigate their lives around these threats, and there is on-page belittling of characters for their class status. I'm just saying that Penelope has a clear talent for demonstrating how many realities can be true at once, and in this case while making you smile. There's so much more I want to or could say about his book that is missing here, but I truly highly recommend this book.

Comparing her two latest releases: Because I loved Monsters we Defy so much, I was hoping for the same good ol' time in a different story with Daughter of the Merciful Deep. What I found is Penelope demonstrating her range and versatility within her own style: fantastical historical fiction, inspired by real people and real stories, showcasing the beauty within early 20th century African-American communities while not shying away from the truth and horrors inflicted by Jim Crow laws and hate. In the mood for a fun romp featuring spirits and a ragtag crew? Try The Monsters We Defy. In the mood for a historical drama featuring gods? Try Daughter of the Merciful Deep.

I understand that not every fantasy reader enjoys the historical-fantasy mashup, yet I will still say everyone should try at least one Penelope story. In comparing these two I'd say for me the journey through Monsters was smoother than Daughter, but while Monsters is an all time favorite I think Daughter has deeply impacted my being and it is not one I will forget for years to come. Penelope is solidified as an auto-read author for me at this point and I strongly suspect we'll see a lot more from her. I look forward to exploring more of what she cooks up next AND I need to go back to her releases as L. Penelope.