DNF at 40%. Got bored. ( )

Since 2016, many stories have celebrated feminine ferocity and decrying patriarchal societies. In that regard, Extasia by Claire Legrand is no different. What sets Ms. Legrand’s version apart is that it feels much rawer and angrier than those books that came before hers, and I am here for it.

Ms. Legrand never fails to impress me with her writing. Her words are so evocative, and her novels are almost always atmospheric. She knows how to blend fantasy, realism, and horror to create something unique. In Extasia, she creates something that is much a horror story as a warning about the rising conservatism plaguing our country these days.

Extasia is a difficult story to read. What Amity and her sisters face and the ideology behind Haven are, quite frankly, disgusting. Plus, there is so much anger coursing through the story, coming from all sides. All of this makes Extasia less an escapist read and more one that serves as a cautionary tale or wake-up call for those paying attention to what is happening in the world right now.

After reading several of Ms. Legrand’s novels now, it feels as if writing is a form of therapy for her. Her stories are always dark and full of complex topics. It is as if she pours out her fears and worries onto paper as a coping mechanism. However, her novels almost always have an element of hope to lighten the darkness. This hope serves as a balm against all of the bad. Thus, if Extasia is a warning against the shift to extreme conservatism, it is also a reminder that the light always returns no matter how dark the night is. ( )

Where does one begin with this hauntingly beautiful tale of a girl, her faith, her power and her desire to save those she loves? Extasia is magic, born from the suffering, pain and blood of women who have died. The girl who will be named Saint Amity is one of four girls in the small village of Haven who have been chosen by god and the elders of the community to be symbols of piety and faith to those who live there. But being a saint has a darker side. They must endure the fists and scorn of those encouraged to purge their anger upon these girls to rid themselves of their impure thoughts.
The townsfolk of Haven have been taught for generations that they are the last surviving people of Earth. Chosen by God to learn from the past and live pious lives to appease the Lord. But something sinister is afoot in Haven, several men have been killed in horrific, un-natural ways and the town believes it is the power of Satan at the root of this evil. Amity soon discovers another power outside their small village, a power knowns as Extasia. Amity decides she will do whatever it takes to protect her village, even if it means taking on Satan himself.
This book was phenomenal, I loved the world building, the characters, the magic system is fascinating and the surprise twist in the storyline was fantastic! I loved it and I cannot wait for the next book! It certainly left off with more twists to come. Highly recommend! ( )