Of Flesh and Blood
Hunter Burke, N.L. Lavin
Release Date: 06/10/2025
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
Of Flesh and Blood is a gripping fusion of horror, folklore, and crime, told through the lens of a unique narrator — a psychiatrist investigating the dark past of his own cousin, the man accused of being the infamous Cajun Cannibal. What sets this novel apart is its immersive, case file-style narrative. Medical records, autopsy reports, police transcripts, historical accounts, and rich regional folklore are all woven together to create a chillingly realistic experience. It reads like a true crime novel — one that feels unnervingly real.
The setting is deeply atmospheric. South Louisiana, with its shadowy bayous and thick, humid air, becomes a character in its own right. The authors do an exceptional job of bringing the region to life through vivid descriptions of the food, traditions, superstitions, and landscape. The folklore is especially compelling — I found myself diving down internet rabbit holes about the Rougarou and other local legends. With a trip to New Orleans coming up in September, I’m already planning to explore more of these eerie tales in person.
The dialogue stands out for its authenticity. It shifts naturally between characters, reflecting their backgrounds, voices, and personalities. (Mitch in particular) The book also touches on small-town politics, eccentric locals, and cultural tensions, all of which deepen the sense of place. Southern horror folklore has a distinctive flavor — a haunting mix of gothic atmosphere, regional history, and supernatural dread. Of Flesh and Blood delivers on every front. It’s the kind of story that stays with you, unsettling and absorbing in equal measure.

If you didn’t know better, you might believe this is a true crime story, but it’s a cleverly written novel about a vicious killer and the psychiatrist who tries to understand what motivated the murderer after his death, only to find that his investigation brings out a copycat. Impossible to stop listening!