April 2023

The Destroyer of Worlds: A Return to Lovecraft Country by Matt Ruff

Meanwhile, in Chicago, George Berry seeks a cure for his cancer from the ghost of Hiram Winthrop, a deal that will come with a high price.

Step right up, folks, and enter the thrilling, terrifying world of Matt Ruff’s latest masterpiece, The Destroyer of Worlds: A Return to Lovecraft Country.

This fusion of historical fiction and fantastical horror creates a spellbinding story that explores the power of hope, the weight of the past, and the meaning of death.

Set in 1957, the story follows the intertwined lives of several characters as they navigate the complexities of identity and power. Atticus Turner and his father Montrose travel to North Carolina to commemorate their ancestor’s escape from slavery, only to find themselves in the middle of a deadly pursuit.

Meanwhile, in Chicago, George Berry seeks a cure for his cancer from the ghost of Hiram Winthrop, a deal that will come with a high price. And as if that weren’t enough, Hippolyta and Horace Berry embark on a journey to the far end of the universe, uncovering a dangerous secret that threatens the safety of their loved ones.

As their paths diverge, each of the characters must confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets while facing off against a supernatural force that threatens to destroy them all. The return of Caleb Braithwhite, stripped of his magic and banished from Chicago, adds another layer of suspense as he seeks revenge and regains his power.

Ruff is a master of the genre whose writing is nothing short of remarkable—evoking the sights, sounds, and emotions of the time period with vivid detail. His characters are rich and complex, each with their own struggles and motivations that propel the story forward.

And let’s not forget the horror.

His descriptions of the supernatural elements in this book will make your skin crawl. From ghosts and demons to otherworldly creatures, the horror in The Destroyer of Worlds: A Return to Lovecraft Country is visceral and unforgettable.

The Destroyer of Worlds: A Return to Lovecraft Country is a stunning achievement in storytelling, a blend of genres that comes together to create something truly unique and unforgettable.