#bookreviews | La Femme Readers

51c+mJxwPoL._SX319_BO1,204,203,200_ Inside the Outside by Martin Lastrapes
Reading Level: Horror
Release Date: July 9, 2011
Publisher: Cannibal Press
Pages: 295

Book Summary: Timber has lived her entire life as a cannibal within a cult called the Divinity of Feminine Reproach and, by the time she is fifteen years old, she has already killed three men. When Timber takes an opportunity to explore the Outside, she bears witness to some dark and unsettling truths about the world around her and the integral role she plays in it. In this debut novel, laced with scenes of horrific violence and uplifting humanity, Martin Lastrapes has written a one-of-a-kind story about love, friendship, sacrifice, and cannibalism.

My Review: Inside The Outside by Martin Lastrapes got inside my mind, and made me think outside the box. You ever wonder what goes on in an individual’s mind to be involved in a cult? Well, Martin gives the reader a chance to dive into the mind of Timber, a young lady who was born and raised in a cannibal cult.

Timber, was such a delightful and brave character. With that name, she was destined to knock down whatever obstacles came her way. Even though, I couldn’t necessarily relate to her, I still established a connection with Timber that lasted until the end.

The novel was broken up into three parts. The first part was absolutely fascinating. I loved uncovering the ins and outs of a human flesh eating society. It was gritty, raw and down right chilling. Even in times where I literally said, ew or what the Fuck out loud, it definitely moved me and got under my skin. Now, if that’s not great writing, than I don’t know what is!

By the second part, it kind of took a different turn. It was a little hard adjusting to the change since I was on a heart pacing high from the first part. But, a few chapters in, I got back into it and once again I was biting my nails with anticipation.

All in all, this was my first cult book and I loved it. It hit all the elements I expected to feel while reading about cannibalistic cult members. But, Martin also expressed other themes such as sexuality and gender roles. I don’t know how he managed to cram everything in there without making it confusing. He gave just the right balance to keep everything in sync with the story. I highly recommend this novel if you’re into cults or just horror novels in general!

My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

About The Author:

MartinLastrapes
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Girl’s Night Out by Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke
Reading Level: Thriller
Release Date: July 7, 2018
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Pages: 336

Summary: For estranged friends Ashley, Natalie, and Lauren, it’s time to heal the old wounds between them. Where better to repair those severed ties than on a girls’ getaway to the beautiful paradise of Tulum, Mexico? But even after they’re reunited, no one is being completely honest about the past or the secrets they’re hiding. When Ashley disappears on their girls’ night out, Natalie and Lauren have to try to piece together their hazy memories to figure out what could have happened to her, while also reconciling their feelings of guilt over their last moments together.

Was Ashley with the man she’d met only days before? Did she pack up and leave? Was she kidnapped? Or worse—could Natalie or Lauren have snapped under the weight of her own lies?

As the clock ticks, hour by hour, Natalie and Lauren’s search rushes headlong into growing suspicion and dread. Maybe their secrets run deeper and more dangerous than one of them is willing—or too afraid—to admit.

My Review: I started reading Girl’s Night Out on the plane ride back from my vacation. It was just Ashley, Natalie, Lauren and I floating up in the sky. I was so enthralled, that I couldn’t stop reading.

Unfortunately my eyes betrayed me by getting sleepy. They cannot be trusted. *sighs* Anywho, I always envied girl groups who have this sister dynamic and have known each other for a ridiculous amount of years. But, after this twisted story, I must say I am thankful for the few drama free friends in my life.

These girls had deep rooted issues with one another and poor Ashley seemed to be the common denominator. Don’t get me wrong, I loved all of their personalities. Even when they drove me insane and I wanted to jump in the book and yell at them. Each woman was unique in her own way and I loved how Liz and Lisa did a superb job in differentiating their traits.

Behavior wise, it reminded me how gossiping and being fake can take you so far. We’ve all been through some female drama throughout our lives, so it was definitely relatable on that aspect. Haters are going to hate no matter what you do or say.

The plot was thrilling and exciting, I was breezing through the chapters because I had so many unanswered questions! And, I’m not one for tears while I read, but Girl’s Night Out got me. This was the first time a book made me cry. The emotional moments were so raw that I couldn’t help but not feel moved. I was so invested in the characters and story that I felt like I was in it.

Overall, I have nothing but great things to say about Girl’s Night Out. It’s one of those reads that hits your heart and ruins your life in a good way. And, if you pay close attention to the wisdom in this novel, you will take life changing advice away from it.

An absolutely delightful and addictive release from Liz and Lisa, you ladies have a special place in my heart and I look forward to reading more works from you two!

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

liz-fenton_lisa-steinke_author-photo_courtesy_debbiefriedrich