Review of ‘Women of the Weird West’ edited by K C Grifant

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This collection of short stories and poetry is such a great idea. It brings new perspectives to the western genre, with a central focus on women, particularly women of colour, indigenous, queer, or from marginalised communities. The genre is horror and the supernatural, fused with the themes and styles traditionally found in westerns. The stories I particularly liked were ‘My Darling, Clementine’ by Cynthia Pelayo, ‘The Divination of Demons’ by Rebecca Rowland, ‘The Stinger of Hellbinder Gulch’ by Jendia Gammon, and ‘Thirst Trap’ by Jennifer Brody. Some were too violent or gruesome for me, but I think for readers who love both horror and westerns, it will be an ideal read. Although I’m more interested in weird fiction than westerns, I thought the collection as a whole was well-balanced, imaginative and inspiring. Every piece had a paragraph by the author which gave some perspective on their ideas. The introduction was very good, too. In summary, an enjoyable collection which I’d recommend if you want to read something different and unique.

Thank you to the publisher Brigids Gate Press for the advance copy via NetGalley. Publication date: 16th June.


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