COME CLOSER is a slim horror novel about the demonic possession of a young architect, Amanda. Amanda is seemingly happily married to Ed and having a successful career. One day her boss calls her in to his office regarding some notes she has given him, which turn out to be a X-rated rant about his deficits rather than a work- related report. Things only go downhill from here as all sorts of changes take place in Amanda's psyche and life. Early on she seizes on the idea that what's happening is demonic possession and she researches the signs of it and gradually she exhibits all of them.
What was both original and a bit troubling to me was how little she resisted or was worried by what was happening to her. She immediately fell into it. Perhaps a dull life was rescued by this diversion. Perhaps children that have imaginary friends are prepared for events like this later in life. A good and well-written book by any standards but not a great fit for me. I needed Amanda to rage against the dark but she embraced it.
7 comments:
I have read all of Sara Gran's book except this one and Saturn's Return to New York. I especially liked Dope. She has a new one coming soon which looks interesting.
Interesting point about Amanda's reaction, Patti. I can see how that would trouble you a bit.
I've heard a lot about Sara Gran. You're review and Steve's comment is motivating me to read some of her books.
There was a movie with Barbara Hershey, THE ENTITY, where she was raped and tormented by an invisible assailant.
I've read and enjoyed two or three of Gran's books. I'll pass on this one.
I liked DOPE very much and Phil liked this one. So it might be me. The reviews are excellent. She has started a publishing company and her new book with be its first publication.
It is one way to take a "new" (or at least underused in recent decades, with Don Juan and such so much creatures of the past) spin on possession, in giving into the situation.
You might like Joanna Russ's short horror story "Come Closer" better!
Everyone seems to be reading horror and grimdark. That usually in October, but so much genre fiction these days is dark and grim, I guess it’s year round now. The latest James Lee Burke was so dark Barbara could barely finish it.
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