Book Review: I Am Made of Death by Kelly
It’s been about 72 hours since I turned the last page of I Am Made of Death, and I’m still reeling. Kelly’s final installment in this haunting trilogy took my expectations and turned them inside out, leaving me with something profound in my heart. The way this book intertwines horror, romance, and the often painful nuances of youth resonated with me on such a personal level that I can’t help but share my thoughts with you all.
Themes, Characters, and Plot
At the core of I Am Made of Death lies an exploration of trauma, identity, and the complex relationships we navigate as we transition from adolescence to adulthood. The central character, Vivienne, grapples with a literal monster lurking inside her—an allegory for both her inner turmoil and the external pressures of expectation. The book’s haunting imagery, especially the motif of bones, strikes a raw and visceral chord that’s hard to shake off. “The thing inside her is curled up behind her ribs”—this line encapsulates not just the horror, but the very essence of Vivienne’s struggle, making it clear that we all have hidden parts of ourselves that we are wrestling with.
And then there’s Thomas. Oh, where do I even begin? His emotional depth and self-awareness had me rooting for him the entire time. The contrast between his teasing banter and moments of vulnerability crafted a relationship dynamic that felt so real and beautiful. Lines like, “You can’t expect me to do nothing,” not only showed his dedication to Vivienne but also reminded me of how essential it is to have someone who understands our complexities.
Writing Style and Highlights
Kelly’s writing is nothing short of enchanting. Each scene flows with a rhythm that draws you in, with beautiful descriptions that linger long after reading—who could forget the “sunken horror wrapped in shipwreck silence”? The balance between elegant prose and the grotesque produces the kind of atmosphere that stays with you.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the humor interspersed throughout the darker themes. I genuinely laughed out loud at many of Vivienne’s quips. This blend of humor within tragedy made the characters relatable, a fact that deepens our connection to their journeys. I also can’t overlook the adventurous references to pop culture that had me giggling—“Are we living in a Buffy episode?” I mean, yes, please!
Personal Reflection and Conclusion
Reading I Am Made of Death was an experience that moved me profoundly. There were moments when I had to pause and reflect—on relationships, anger, and the kind of love that can sometimes feel like a monster in itself. The painful yet beautiful double meanings throughout the novel reminded me that there’s so much more than what meets the eye.
If you enjoy stories that dive deep into the human condition wrapped in a supernatural ambiance, you’ll find a lot to love in Kelly’s work. This book is not just a fantasy—it’s a reflection, a reminder of our intricacies, and I can confidently say it’ll stick with you long after you’ve closed the cover.
So, grab your copy, prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, and join me in losing yourself in a world that feels as real as the monsters we confront within ourselves. Kelly, thank you for this exquisite experience—I’m already buzzing with anticipation for any future tales you might weave!