This book is an absolute knockout. The story of a seeming Utopia for trans women that is a whole lot darker than that. This is a book whose secrets are so fascinating and horrifying to uncover that I really don’t want to say more about the plot. But the writing is beautiful and assured, I truly am shocked this is a debut. It is such an emotionally raw and powerful look at the trans woman’s experience in a world that is so dangerous and so hateful towards them. I absolutely loved this book.

I was honestly not a fan of this book. The main character has no real sense of self or body, and I wasn't interested in her whatsoever. The ending felt rushed and nonsensical. I will say the sex scenes I thought were hot and authentic to the T4T experience. Overall, it wasn't a particularly good book in my opinion, and I'm not going to recommend it.

“Herculine” is Grace Byron's debut horror novel. The story follows the protagonist, a trans woman, as she leaves New York City and returns to the Midwest, where her ex-girlfriend is leading a commune or cult for trans women.

Initially, this idea appears appealing—taking a break from the harsh realities of city life and reconnecting with one’s roots. However, the narrator soon faces both metaphorical and literal demons.

At a time when trans women are often vilified, Byron takes this societal toxicity and turns it on its head. The horrors depicted in the novel include the cult-like, demonic commune, as well as very real dangers such as conversion therapy, Midwestern politics, liberal microaggressions, TERFs, internalized misogyny, transphobia, and much more.

I recommend this novel to fans of *Yellowjackets*, Torrey Peters’ *Stag Dance*, and Chuck Tingle’s *Camp Damascus* and *Bury Your Gays*. Thank you to S&S Saga Press and NetGalley for providing this ARC.

I would caution readers to check out the CWs before reading.