Just finished We Used to Live Here? Next up read Sorrowland…
Imagine escaping one nightmare only to find the real horror is growing inside you—that's the chilling hook of Sorrowland, a novel that echoes the psychological tension and identity struggles in We Used to Live Here without retreading the same haunted-house ground. Rivers Solomon crafts a story around Vern, a Black queer teen who flees a repressive compound with her newborn twins, seeking refuge in the woods where her body begins to undergo inexplicable, grotesque transformations.
"Sorrowland is a fantastical, fierce reckoning... something terrifying and powerful that just might allow her to break free from all that haunts her. Sorrowland is gorgeous and the writing, the storytelling, they are magnificent."— Roxane , Goodreads
What makes this a stellar follow-up is its appeal to readers who love unreliable perspectives and atmospheric builds, but with a speculative edge that adds layers of body horror and survival grit. Unlike straightforward thrillers, Sorrowland layers in elements of sci-fi and folklore, creating a narrative that's as intellectually engaging as it is spine-tingling.
It's a bold blend of horror and social commentary, diving into themes of race, queerness, and autonomy that feel urgently relevant, much like the uncanny belonging questions in Kliewer's debut. The fast-paced plot keeps you guessing with twists that challenge what's real, all wrapped in dark, poetic prose that's both visceral and thought-provoking.
"This is, without doubt, a disturbing and distressing read, but so ferocious, profound, poignant and moving... it feels like a beautifully written book I will never forget and I can see it occupying my thoughts for quite some time to come."— Paromjit , Goodreads
Perfect for Cozy Horror Fans
It's perfect for those cozy horror fans who appreciate scares with substance, offering queer representation that's integral to the story without feeling tokenistic. If We Used to Live Here hooked you with its blend of domestic intrusion and mind-bending reveals, this book's exploration of personal and societal monsters will leave you equally unsettled and satisfied.
