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Deification
The sky has opened. Angels descend to earth in fiery fury. Some claim to have seen these creatures, others claim to have been touched by them. Those with psychic abilities find their gifts magnified by the spiritual presences rising from Hell and falling from Heaven. Yes, the end is near. Or is it the beginning? After a life of violence and crime, gang-leader Torrence provides meaning to her groups’ destructive endeavors through discovery of Conrad, a once-possessed orator of demonic doctrines. Destroying virtues for the sake of sin, Torrence leads her band of bad-boy brethren to murder, blood sacrifice, and supernatural ritual in an effort to restore her dark savior’s powers so the apocalypse can be an unholy paradise.
152 pages, Paperback
Published February 17, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 27, 2021
“My Saviour. I am your Awakener, your humble servant.”
“Deification” was one of the best surprises I've had this year, if not ever.
This book is written in such a way that you can’t help but see the scenes happening as if it were a movie or a TV series. You also cannot help but care for the story and its characters.
And the funny thing about it is that they are not good people at all, but you feel drawn to them and to their stories.
They commit the most hideous crimes and actions in the name of the unholy and you still feel in love with them. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
"Fear not." His words, exasperated and low. He'd explained this already. "All there is to lose is the body But what there is to gain […] It's eternity."
The story follows Torrence and her group of misfits and criminals as they go around gathering and killing people they see as personifications of Virtue, so Conrad, a Messiah of demonic forces, can recover his Dark Powers.
We are shown the last sacrifices that precede the coming of Hell while, through the use of flashbacks, we are shown how Tor (as some call her) found her merry men and other scenes that will impact the story.
“That was the funny thing about fiction- Everything was overused and overdone and desensitizes the reader or watcher to its violence until they're face to face with it. Love didn't feel as good in fiction, and horror stories weren't as frightening as what real life could do.”
It has the perfect balance between violence, horror, shock, and, against all odds in a book with a theme as this one, love.
It’s not the kind of love where you see the characters leaning against a sheet of glass while rain splatters on the other side, but a love that is almost forbidden, in a way. Either because it’s a love you feel for your enemy or for someone who is so close to you that you shouldn’t be feeling it.
And that love is not limited to the characters. I have to say that even I fell in love with Tor in a way. Her personality and her beauty, her rawness and violent ruthlessness, her sweetness (yes, even a killer can be sweet if it helps her cause) and depth – all of these things make her feel more human than just a book character. And they make you fall head over heels for her.
“She murders, and she consumes, and in her consumption she commands the tearing of the skies. […] She is sacrilege; sin and violence and blasphemy.”
Brooklynn Dean's writing and development of the story is addictive and it’s really hard to put the book down. As I said at the beginning, it’s like a TV series or a movie, the action keeps on coming and you can’t wait for what will come next. And like all the best ones, it leaves you salivating for the next installment when it ends.
This is one of the series that I will be sure not to miss and I will do everything I can to have the next one in my hands as soon as it comes out. And, just like Torrence, I’ll cut and maim and kill. I’ll give my all for it. But in the end I will get it.
What are you willing to give to get yours?
“Deification” was one of the best surprises I've had this year, if not ever.
This book is written in such a way that you can’t help but see the scenes happening as if it were a movie or a TV series. You also cannot help but care for the story and its characters.
And the funny thing about it is that they are not good people at all, but you feel drawn to them and to their stories.
They commit the most hideous crimes and actions in the name of the unholy and you still feel in love with them. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
"Fear not." His words, exasperated and low. He'd explained this already. "All there is to lose is the body But what there is to gain […] It's eternity."
The story follows Torrence and her group of misfits and criminals as they go around gathering and killing people they see as personifications of Virtue, so Conrad, a Messiah of demonic forces, can recover his Dark Powers.
We are shown the last sacrifices that precede the coming of Hell while, through the use of flashbacks, we are shown how Tor (as some call her) found her merry men and other scenes that will impact the story.
“That was the funny thing about fiction- Everything was overused and overdone and desensitizes the reader or watcher to its violence until they're face to face with it. Love didn't feel as good in fiction, and horror stories weren't as frightening as what real life could do.”
It has the perfect balance between violence, horror, shock, and, against all odds in a book with a theme as this one, love.
It’s not the kind of love where you see the characters leaning against a sheet of glass while rain splatters on the other side, but a love that is almost forbidden, in a way. Either because it’s a love you feel for your enemy or for someone who is so close to you that you shouldn’t be feeling it.
And that love is not limited to the characters. I have to say that even I fell in love with Tor in a way. Her personality and her beauty, her rawness and violent ruthlessness, her sweetness (yes, even a killer can be sweet if it helps her cause) and depth – all of these things make her feel more human than just a book character. And they make you fall head over heels for her.
“She murders, and she consumes, and in her consumption she commands the tearing of the skies. […] She is sacrilege; sin and violence and blasphemy.”
Brooklynn Dean's writing and development of the story is addictive and it’s really hard to put the book down. As I said at the beginning, it’s like a TV series or a movie, the action keeps on coming and you can’t wait for what will come next. And like all the best ones, it leaves you salivating for the next installment when it ends.
This is one of the series that I will be sure not to miss and I will do everything I can to have the next one in my hands as soon as it comes out. And, just like Torrence, I’ll cut and maim and kill. I’ll give my all for it. But in the end I will get it.
What are you willing to give to get yours?
March 4, 2021
One of my absolute favorite things about this book was the prose. It's not often I find an author willing to play with their prose, and do so with such grace. Beautifully written it's contrasted by the content to make for some of the best and most jarring descriptions.
Reading this I imagined a post apocalyptic wasteland, a mad max world of disasters all clashing into our real world, while the fantastical elements elevated the story into something unique.
There's a lot in here that twists and turns so seamlessly that I genuinely finished it in one day. I found myself putting it down to do my own shit only to stop and pick it up again because I needed to know where it was going.
We take the POV of Torrence, you're not so average main character, and quickly realize that for the better part of the story we're stuck with the villains. Do we root for them? Do we sympathize? I don't know, and I don't know if I did, but by the end her and bad boys were fully realized characters.
I don't want to take away from the story because it's an absolute ride of what the fuck, greatly paced with brief brief flashbacks that are just as enlightening, with unique and interesting story concepts. But the prose, the turn of phrases, the inner dialogue, the road that unfolds through these words is the main highlight for me. I am in love with the writing style, making the most disgusting moments flash with a sort of beauty that I haven't seen anyone try to do, not on this level at least. Even now a full night's rest later, I reel from what the words provoked.
Reading this I imagined a post apocalyptic wasteland, a mad max world of disasters all clashing into our real world, while the fantastical elements elevated the story into something unique.
There's a lot in here that twists and turns so seamlessly that I genuinely finished it in one day. I found myself putting it down to do my own shit only to stop and pick it up again because I needed to know where it was going.
We take the POV of Torrence, you're not so average main character, and quickly realize that for the better part of the story we're stuck with the villains. Do we root for them? Do we sympathize? I don't know, and I don't know if I did, but by the end her and bad boys were fully realized characters.
I don't want to take away from the story because it's an absolute ride of what the fuck, greatly paced with brief brief flashbacks that are just as enlightening, with unique and interesting story concepts. But the prose, the turn of phrases, the inner dialogue, the road that unfolds through these words is the main highlight for me. I am in love with the writing style, making the most disgusting moments flash with a sort of beauty that I haven't seen anyone try to do, not on this level at least. Even now a full night's rest later, I reel from what the words provoked.
May 19, 2021
Brooklynn Dean’s Deification tells the hellbound story of Torrence, a wickedly cunning paragon with an unnerving predatory approach, coupled with frightening recruiting powers that bring Manson to mind. Make no mistake about it, whatever talk she talks, Torrence walks the walk — with a catlike lithe and a tiger-like tenacity.
“Did she want to consume the gospels of the masses, the glory-to-Gods, and the so-called uplifting serenity of salvation? Of heaven? Or did she, perhaps, thrive in the violent words of horror tales and the gruesome songs of death?”
Torrence caught me off guard with her antics more than once, occasions which were somehow as calculated and controlled as they were seemingly chaotic and vicious. I stress seemingly, because Torrence makes it quite clear early on that she knows exactly where she’s going — the only question is if you’re coming with her, while understanding that she typically gets what she wants, and is highly unlikely to leave her prey unclaimed.
“She closed her eyes, considered the power swirling in her savior’s veins, in her veins, in the communions shared by them through spirituality and fate and nothing more, and she prayed to her demonic orator that tomorrow would bring virtue to her too.”
Torrence’s approach is quite scary in places. A small part of this is her sheer unpredictability, but the larger part that caused my caution is her uncanny ability to hone in on her prey’s weaknesses, as well as how she orchestrates the band to help execute her master plan. Without reservation, I can honestly say that Torrence is the scariest female character I’ve encountered in dark fantasy. She is a haunting, calculated nonpareil with sickening chess play. You’re best served to stay out of her way, praying you don’t become one she’s tracking to slay.
“Nothing stopped her, and nothing stopped her band of brothers — the handsome, vile creatures who were more monster than human, but not in any otherworldly way. Their monstrosities developed in childhood, in youthful teenage rebellion, in the suffering inflicted upon them; monstrosity of the spirit, and in Torrence, they’d found a leader.”
Ms. Dean is phenomenal with creative language. All of her lyrics tease with poetic power, blooming purple on occasion, effusing romanticized-yet-realistic philosophical observations while dancing with the devil in a sky-ripped realm.
“To Torrence, God was simply an idea — a thought or a sensation. God was the reminder of supposed-morality, that voice in one’s mind that paused the hand of a would-be thief before its fingers could lock around an item and push it into a coat pocket. God was synthetic.”
Also of note is an experienced sense of restraint in the writing that points to the Author’s awareness of the lanes dividing literary fiction and dark fantasy. While the prose playfully swerves over the line from time to time, the ride usually feels well in control.
“Visual and audible became physically felt, as if the spirit of the universe broke through the channels that separate parallel realities and exerted all of its power into simply making itself known.”
“ . . . and that alone would force the world into systems far deadlier and greater than any apocalyptic encounter anyone had thus far.”
Elegant and yet brutal, chaotic and yet controlled, Deification is a delightfully twisted tale, opening a helter-skelter portal straight to hell.
“Did she want to consume the gospels of the masses, the glory-to-Gods, and the so-called uplifting serenity of salvation? Of heaven? Or did she, perhaps, thrive in the violent words of horror tales and the gruesome songs of death?”
Torrence caught me off guard with her antics more than once, occasions which were somehow as calculated and controlled as they were seemingly chaotic and vicious. I stress seemingly, because Torrence makes it quite clear early on that she knows exactly where she’s going — the only question is if you’re coming with her, while understanding that she typically gets what she wants, and is highly unlikely to leave her prey unclaimed.
“She closed her eyes, considered the power swirling in her savior’s veins, in her veins, in the communions shared by them through spirituality and fate and nothing more, and she prayed to her demonic orator that tomorrow would bring virtue to her too.”
Torrence’s approach is quite scary in places. A small part of this is her sheer unpredictability, but the larger part that caused my caution is her uncanny ability to hone in on her prey’s weaknesses, as well as how she orchestrates the band to help execute her master plan. Without reservation, I can honestly say that Torrence is the scariest female character I’ve encountered in dark fantasy. She is a haunting, calculated nonpareil with sickening chess play. You’re best served to stay out of her way, praying you don’t become one she’s tracking to slay.
“Nothing stopped her, and nothing stopped her band of brothers — the handsome, vile creatures who were more monster than human, but not in any otherworldly way. Their monstrosities developed in childhood, in youthful teenage rebellion, in the suffering inflicted upon them; monstrosity of the spirit, and in Torrence, they’d found a leader.”
Ms. Dean is phenomenal with creative language. All of her lyrics tease with poetic power, blooming purple on occasion, effusing romanticized-yet-realistic philosophical observations while dancing with the devil in a sky-ripped realm.
“To Torrence, God was simply an idea — a thought or a sensation. God was the reminder of supposed-morality, that voice in one’s mind that paused the hand of a would-be thief before its fingers could lock around an item and push it into a coat pocket. God was synthetic.”
Also of note is an experienced sense of restraint in the writing that points to the Author’s awareness of the lanes dividing literary fiction and dark fantasy. While the prose playfully swerves over the line from time to time, the ride usually feels well in control.
“Visual and audible became physically felt, as if the spirit of the universe broke through the channels that separate parallel realities and exerted all of its power into simply making itself known.”
“ . . . and that alone would force the world into systems far deadlier and greater than any apocalyptic encounter anyone had thus far.”
Elegant and yet brutal, chaotic and yet controlled, Deification is a delightfully twisted tale, opening a helter-skelter portal straight to hell.
October 8, 2021
Leave your morals behind and willingly indulge!
Coming from someone who loves the Gospel, this Anti-Gospel had a beauty of its own!
Deification Definition
1. An embodiment of the qualities of a god
2. The condition of being treated like a god
3. the elevation of a person (as to the status of a god)
Brooklynn Dean's writing is intelligent, beautifully poetic, descriptively visual, and well paced.
I love gritty horror, I love theology, I love learning about cults, I love storylines with biblical characters and elements. I GOT EVERY ONE OF THOSE THINGS with Brooklynn Dean's, Anti-Gospel Masterpiece "Deification" ! (Book 1)
The plot is a simple mission with very complex characters! Torrence is a Satanist who worships "The Savior", her savior (Conrad). He is a guru, cult leader type of individual with a deity possessing his body. Once 7 pure souls are sacrificed, Hell will come to earth while both Torrence and Conrad will become Gods.
But what I loved most about the story was Torrence. Though devoted to her savior for bringing her sinful nature a purpose, she is a natural dominant leader. She has a group of men who worship her and the author's explanation as to why is VERY WELL DONE! Though you may not agree with their worship of her, it's close to impossible for the reader to not UNDERSTAND at the least.
It was gory, violently sadistic, heartless, offensive, gritty, lustful, sinful and yet... I was so honored to indulge.
Coming from someone who loves the Gospel, this Anti-Gospel had a beauty of its own!
Deification Definition
1. An embodiment of the qualities of a god
2. The condition of being treated like a god
3. the elevation of a person (as to the status of a god)
Brooklynn Dean's writing is intelligent, beautifully poetic, descriptively visual, and well paced.
I love gritty horror, I love theology, I love learning about cults, I love storylines with biblical characters and elements. I GOT EVERY ONE OF THOSE THINGS with Brooklynn Dean's, Anti-Gospel Masterpiece "Deification" ! (Book 1)
The plot is a simple mission with very complex characters! Torrence is a Satanist who worships "The Savior", her savior (Conrad). He is a guru, cult leader type of individual with a deity possessing his body. Once 7 pure souls are sacrificed, Hell will come to earth while both Torrence and Conrad will become Gods.
But what I loved most about the story was Torrence. Though devoted to her savior for bringing her sinful nature a purpose, she is a natural dominant leader. She has a group of men who worship her and the author's explanation as to why is VERY WELL DONE! Though you may not agree with their worship of her, it's close to impossible for the reader to not UNDERSTAND at the least.
It was gory, violently sadistic, heartless, offensive, gritty, lustful, sinful and yet... I was so honored to indulge.
November 8, 2021
DEIFICATION, written by Brooklyn Dean, is a pre-apocalyptic horror novel. At its core, this book is dark, violent, and thrilling. It follows the merciless quest of Torrence (Tor), a beautiful, strong woman, and her band of loyal followers, hellbent on destruction, ritual, and blood sacrifices. If all goes according to plan, Tor will take her rightful place as The Awakener, beside her evil savior, Conrad.
DEIFICATION strays from formulaic ideologies, such as good conquers evil and men rule women. This book celebrates female empowerment through Tor’s unyielding power. Her male followers worship with unwavering reverence.
From page one, Dean pushes her foot on the literary gas pedal and does not let off throughout the entire novel. Her poetic writing style is addicting, contrasting beautifully with the terrifying plot. This concept is unique, creative, and unforgettable. Readers will be left wanting more. The sequel, GRIEVING THE SPIRIT, is available now.
DEIFICATION strays from formulaic ideologies, such as good conquers evil and men rule women. This book celebrates female empowerment through Tor’s unyielding power. Her male followers worship with unwavering reverence.
From page one, Dean pushes her foot on the literary gas pedal and does not let off throughout the entire novel. Her poetic writing style is addicting, contrasting beautifully with the terrifying plot. This concept is unique, creative, and unforgettable. Readers will be left wanting more. The sequel, GRIEVING THE SPIRIT, is available now.
May 12, 2021
This is THE Brooklynn Dean book. It's her newest, and I think everything she's ever written about before all comes together and finds their place in this one book. Warning, this one's a bumpy ride.
It is the apocalypse. Demons are real. Angels might or might not be. Murder. Mayhem. Hell on Earth. Torrence is a young woman obsessed, following the doctrines of a mass murderer who might be possessed by a demon. Torrence and her band of misfits are on a mission, and there's no sugar coating it: to murder people of grace and kindness as part of a certain ritual which is said to bring about The Saviour. Hold on tight.
Pick up a copy of Deification if you want a wild and tempting romp into the heart of Evil.
It is the apocalypse. Demons are real. Angels might or might not be. Murder. Mayhem. Hell on Earth. Torrence is a young woman obsessed, following the doctrines of a mass murderer who might be possessed by a demon. Torrence and her band of misfits are on a mission, and there's no sugar coating it: to murder people of grace and kindness as part of a certain ritual which is said to bring about The Saviour. Hold on tight.
Pick up a copy of Deification if you want a wild and tempting romp into the heart of Evil.
February 25, 2021
You’ve yet to read a story so bold and terrifying that will undoubtedly leave you wanting more of its horrors once it’s over.
An utterly frightening telling of humanity’s end robed in the captivating words so eloquently structured by Brooklynn Dean is only one of the treasures Deification contains.
You’ll find yourself reevaluating your ingrained ideas of right and wrong, good and evil, and how and where true horrors exist in reality.
This book is sure to leave its mark upon your memory, and with it the pieces of your certainties now shattered by the twists and revelations this remarkable author provides.
An utterly frightening telling of humanity’s end robed in the captivating words so eloquently structured by Brooklynn Dean is only one of the treasures Deification contains.
You’ll find yourself reevaluating your ingrained ideas of right and wrong, good and evil, and how and where true horrors exist in reality.
This book is sure to leave its mark upon your memory, and with it the pieces of your certainties now shattered by the twists and revelations this remarkable author provides.
February 27, 2021
Brooklynn Brilliance
Brooklynn is one of my favourite indie authors so it was no surprise that this was another superb offering. Her vivid, intense writing style kept me turning the pages towards a shocking, yet deeply satisfying, conclusion. She can cross genres with ease and tackle multiple themes in an intelligent and insightful manner. Her characters are broken and brilliant in equal measure and themes of obsessive love and doomed salvation are considered against backdrops of blood and the loudest of music. A brilliant addition to get growing body of work.
Brooklynn is one of my favourite indie authors so it was no surprise that this was another superb offering. Her vivid, intense writing style kept me turning the pages towards a shocking, yet deeply satisfying, conclusion. She can cross genres with ease and tackle multiple themes in an intelligent and insightful manner. Her characters are broken and brilliant in equal measure and themes of obsessive love and doomed salvation are considered against backdrops of blood and the loudest of music. A brilliant addition to get growing body of work.
March 16, 2021
Malevolence reborn
Brooklyn Dean opens a whole new experience with Reification. She explores the very darkest side of humanity. I have found that with her books you are never sure what you'll get until you are in deep and realize you finished the book. I found myself wondering what I would do if the sky opened and suddenly there were angels everywhere.
Brooklyn Dean opens a whole new experience with Reification. She explores the very darkest side of humanity. I have found that with her books you are never sure what you'll get until you are in deep and realize you finished the book. I found myself wondering what I would do if the sky opened and suddenly there were angels everywhere.
April 20, 2021
Originally posted over at my personal blog site, Night Terror Novels
“Wesley wondered if Torrence wanted strength to save herself, and hopefully him, from the savior’s wrath if he found them unworthy of his flock. Surely they were more than qualified, more than devoted, but to whom? And why?”
– Brooklynn Dean, Deification
✝️I received an e-Book of this story in exchange for a fair review!✝️
Set against something of a dystopian, post-apocalyptic backdrop, Deification takes place in the aftermath of an event known as the opened-sky, in which the tenuous line between heaven, hell, and the Earth itself is slowly being rent open. I really enjoyed how the details about this event were either drip-fed throughout the narrative or simply alluded to – there wasn’t some overwrought exposition about it, and indeed even by the conclusion there is much that is left to the reader’s own imagination – often the conjurer of the most twisted and warped horrors.
I think one of the strongest aspects of this book was the writer’s unique and memorable authorial voice and style. Even when describing some truly grotesque characters and scenes, Brooklynn’s prose is just gorgeous, and has a really lyrical and poetic bite to it. It’s also just intensely readable, infusing a satisfying, flowing cadence to the way the story is woven. The plot itself concerns gang-leader Torrence and her devout brethren on a quest to destroy the so-called virtues for the sake of sin. They hope that by enacting these destructive endeavours, they will complete the work of Conrad, a once-possessed orator of demonic doctrines – and in doing so, restore their dark saviour’s powers so that the apocalypse can truly be unleashed.
I’ve always been an ardent supporter of the more morally questionable and unsavoury main characters, and in that regard Deification was totally my kind of story. In fact, to call the central focus Torrence a character of dubious and grey morals would be a vast understatement – she was really pretty despicable – but also highly complex. Though most of the narrative is focused entirely on Tor, it still feels that, even by the final page, we only understand a fraction of her character and motivations.
The supporting cast of characters were interesting and engaging too. Each member of Tor’s close circle were fleshed out with their own twisted backstories, and own reasons for following her every whim. Conrad’s ominous presence haunts the plot from the very beginning, and takes on an almost ethereal, otherworldly presence. It isn’t until his late introduction that we see that beneath the veil of villainy, he is but a man too.
Another theme and sub-genre that I unashamedly love is anything concerning cults; I’m fascinated with non-fiction and true crime stories on this subject as well, but love a good fictional cult so much. Basically, anything that focuses on the mentality of devotion and following that comes with sect-like societies, and my interest is instantly piqued. In the case of this book, Torrence and her little gang of loathsome cronies are a textbook clan of cultists, the demagogue they venerate coming in the form of the mysterious Conrad.
Given the premise and the setup, you’d be right in assuming that themes of religion, faith and worship are prominent in Deification’s story. But there is also so much more beyond the angels and demons, the ‘end of the world’ scenario and the twisted characters. This is a story of personal devotion, idolization and veneration, of people broken and jaded by their own histories. Torrence’s gang would follow her to the literal end of the world, and much of their willingness to do so is born of a commitment to her as an individual, rather than to their unholy quest itself, and even to Conrad. This added a layer of complexity and depth beneath the surface plot of ne'er-do-wells committing atrocities in the name of their dark lord.
The only slight thing holding me back from rating this higher is that I felt the ending all happened a little too abrupt for me. I won’t spoil anything here, but will just say that I’d been anticipating more of a confrontation between certain characters in the narrative. There was a late stage role reversal that I really enjoyed, but as I say, I felt it had been building up to more of a showdown of a climax.
Even with that being said though, the ending was still very good and felt fitting for the story, as it maintains consistency with the overall tone of the narrative. Brooklynn notes in one of her author bios that you typically won’t find ‘Happily Ever After’ endings in her stories, and as a lover of the more grim and downbeat finales I have to say I’m totally onboard with reading more misery and bleakness from this writer. This was an excellent example of the kind of dark horror my blackened husk of a heart longs for, terrific and terrifying.
VERDICT: Deification is a well-written and compelling read, with an interesting, if extremely unsavoury, cast of characters, an original premise and highly engaging plot. Brooklynn is a very talented writer, there’s no doubt about it; the language throughout is just fantastic and silky smooth, each line is dripping with atmosphere and character. This is definitely an author I’ll be keeping a close eye on for future projects for sure.
It’s a ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from this reviewer. I also want to say a humongous thank you to Brooklynn Dean for providing a copy and giving me the chance to read and review it.
Book Information
Title(s): Deification
Author(s): Brooklynn Dean
Publisher(s): Self-published
Original Publication Date: 17th February, 2021
Page Count: 131 pages
Format Read: Digital
Advance Review Copy (Y/N): Y
Website(s): https://www.brooklynndean.com/
“Wesley wondered if Torrence wanted strength to save herself, and hopefully him, from the savior’s wrath if he found them unworthy of his flock. Surely they were more than qualified, more than devoted, but to whom? And why?”
– Brooklynn Dean, Deification
✝️I received an e-Book of this story in exchange for a fair review!✝️
Set against something of a dystopian, post-apocalyptic backdrop, Deification takes place in the aftermath of an event known as the opened-sky, in which the tenuous line between heaven, hell, and the Earth itself is slowly being rent open. I really enjoyed how the details about this event were either drip-fed throughout the narrative or simply alluded to – there wasn’t some overwrought exposition about it, and indeed even by the conclusion there is much that is left to the reader’s own imagination – often the conjurer of the most twisted and warped horrors.
I think one of the strongest aspects of this book was the writer’s unique and memorable authorial voice and style. Even when describing some truly grotesque characters and scenes, Brooklynn’s prose is just gorgeous, and has a really lyrical and poetic bite to it. It’s also just intensely readable, infusing a satisfying, flowing cadence to the way the story is woven. The plot itself concerns gang-leader Torrence and her devout brethren on a quest to destroy the so-called virtues for the sake of sin. They hope that by enacting these destructive endeavours, they will complete the work of Conrad, a once-possessed orator of demonic doctrines – and in doing so, restore their dark saviour’s powers so that the apocalypse can truly be unleashed.
I’ve always been an ardent supporter of the more morally questionable and unsavoury main characters, and in that regard Deification was totally my kind of story. In fact, to call the central focus Torrence a character of dubious and grey morals would be a vast understatement – she was really pretty despicable – but also highly complex. Though most of the narrative is focused entirely on Tor, it still feels that, even by the final page, we only understand a fraction of her character and motivations.
The supporting cast of characters were interesting and engaging too. Each member of Tor’s close circle were fleshed out with their own twisted backstories, and own reasons for following her every whim. Conrad’s ominous presence haunts the plot from the very beginning, and takes on an almost ethereal, otherworldly presence. It isn’t until his late introduction that we see that beneath the veil of villainy, he is but a man too.
Another theme and sub-genre that I unashamedly love is anything concerning cults; I’m fascinated with non-fiction and true crime stories on this subject as well, but love a good fictional cult so much. Basically, anything that focuses on the mentality of devotion and following that comes with sect-like societies, and my interest is instantly piqued. In the case of this book, Torrence and her little gang of loathsome cronies are a textbook clan of cultists, the demagogue they venerate coming in the form of the mysterious Conrad.
Given the premise and the setup, you’d be right in assuming that themes of religion, faith and worship are prominent in Deification’s story. But there is also so much more beyond the angels and demons, the ‘end of the world’ scenario and the twisted characters. This is a story of personal devotion, idolization and veneration, of people broken and jaded by their own histories. Torrence’s gang would follow her to the literal end of the world, and much of their willingness to do so is born of a commitment to her as an individual, rather than to their unholy quest itself, and even to Conrad. This added a layer of complexity and depth beneath the surface plot of ne'er-do-wells committing atrocities in the name of their dark lord.
The only slight thing holding me back from rating this higher is that I felt the ending all happened a little too abrupt for me. I won’t spoil anything here, but will just say that I’d been anticipating more of a confrontation between certain characters in the narrative. There was a late stage role reversal that I really enjoyed, but as I say, I felt it had been building up to more of a showdown of a climax.
Even with that being said though, the ending was still very good and felt fitting for the story, as it maintains consistency with the overall tone of the narrative. Brooklynn notes in one of her author bios that you typically won’t find ‘Happily Ever After’ endings in her stories, and as a lover of the more grim and downbeat finales I have to say I’m totally onboard with reading more misery and bleakness from this writer. This was an excellent example of the kind of dark horror my blackened husk of a heart longs for, terrific and terrifying.
VERDICT: Deification is a well-written and compelling read, with an interesting, if extremely unsavoury, cast of characters, an original premise and highly engaging plot. Brooklynn is a very talented writer, there’s no doubt about it; the language throughout is just fantastic and silky smooth, each line is dripping with atmosphere and character. This is definitely an author I’ll be keeping a close eye on for future projects for sure.
It’s a ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from this reviewer. I also want to say a humongous thank you to Brooklynn Dean for providing a copy and giving me the chance to read and review it.
Book Information
Title(s): Deification
Author(s): Brooklynn Dean
Publisher(s): Self-published
Original Publication Date: 17th February, 2021
Page Count: 131 pages
Format Read: Digital
Advance Review Copy (Y/N): Y
Website(s): https://www.brooklynndean.com/
January 2, 2022
Have you ever thought to yourself, “Hey, I wonder what Mad Max would be like written by Clive Barker?”… just me? Brooklynn Dean’s “Deification” is just that. Im not talking about The Road Warrior, get your head out of the post-apocalyptic gutter and realize Mad Max has a totally different tone and approach than it’s sequels. This book is contained with hints of a bigger end times. The apocalypse is there, churning away, but not as the focus of the story. The focus is on a woman named Torrence who I can only describe as an evil shark. What the hell? She’s evil, and she hunts with the instincts of a shark; see, it makes sense. This book is written in a style that I see tried often but never captured quite right. The writing reminds me of Charlee Jacob in all the best ways; violent, brutal, poetic, vile, erotic. This type of writing seems to fall on one side or the other, it’s either too much and sort of makes me cringe(personal preference here) or it’s done so damn well you can’t help but be sucked into it. The words describing the vile acts of the characters are so craftily woven together you can’t help but re read some passages despite how stomach churning the subject matter is. First read from Brooklynn Dean but definitely picking up more of her works. K thx.
October 20, 2021
A dark, violent and unique short story that takes place in an apocalyptic world. We follow a wicked and savage group led by the main character Torrence. She is attractive, cunning and a powerhouse to say the least. Torrence and her gang of sinners have no remorse in this supernatural world of good vs. evil. Her followers are loyal, and their goal is to empower Torrence by destroying virtues with violence. In contrast you have War, the pure hearted and altruistic character that shines a little light in the story. One scene in particular resonated with me that I loved. A thought crosses his mind about humanity and the lack of people appreciating the simple things in life. It was well executed and beautifully written. The pull Torrence and War have towards one another is intriguing, but Torrence is just so good at being bad. I don't see her letting anything stand in her way. This was my first read by Brooklynn Dean. I admire that she does not hold back in her writing. Some scenes were so intense and brutal I couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. Dark Fantasy at its finest! The ending leaves a wide opening for book two. A great fast paced read for horror/dark fantasy lovers.
February 17, 2021
This post-apocalyptic story follows Torrence, a mysterious and powerful woman, on her quest to collect virtues through unwilling sacrifice. With a group of devoted followers to help her with the dirty work in exchange for an unknown reward once the job is done, she leaves a trail of blood and destruction behind her.
This was a powerful story, one that demonstrates that we don't have to live in a fictional world to bear witness to the horrors that exist around us. After all, some of the worst monsters aren't monsters at all. They're people. This story is ripe with violence, some gratuitous (TW: rape, assault), and some left to the reader's imagination, but all of it felt essential to give the full breadth of the world they live in.
Well-written, cunning and insightful to the inner workings of a damaged mind, I enjoyed the back stories of the secondary characters, but found myself wanting to know more about Torrence. I suppose that's part of that character's charming ruse, and thus a job well done by the author.
This was a powerful story, one that demonstrates that we don't have to live in a fictional world to bear witness to the horrors that exist around us. After all, some of the worst monsters aren't monsters at all. They're people. This story is ripe with violence, some gratuitous (TW: rape, assault), and some left to the reader's imagination, but all of it felt essential to give the full breadth of the world they live in.
Well-written, cunning and insightful to the inner workings of a damaged mind, I enjoyed the back stories of the secondary characters, but found myself wanting to know more about Torrence. I suppose that's part of that character's charming ruse, and thus a job well done by the author.
February 6, 2021
Torrence lives in our world, but the skies have opened up and angels have descended upon Earth.
But is the end of our world the start of another?
This grim, short story grabs the indecency of the human spirit and runs with it. Torrence is a very interesting character, dripping with strength and violence both. Her goals are easy to understand, and her methods to achieve them will make you shudder.
Dean unpacks what parts of the human mind are driven towards chaos, to harm done, to violence. The way that people use others as a means to an end. In a semi-apocalyptic world, a lawless world, how far would those already without morals go to achieve their goals? This book takes a very raw approach to this, inspecting evil on every level.
The balance, however, is also there - the opposite side of it is War. A character with a set of morals quite opposite of Torrence’s. The way the two characters are drawn to each other was very well written. I wanted to explore it more, to understand it more, though what we are given is certainly satisfying. War had a lot of internal conflict that showed he could be swayed by human intricacies; it was this that set War apart from the other characters.
There were some instances where, due to the smoothness of the writing, I was unsure if what I was reading was past or present. Also to note, there were some moments where I couldn’t exactly picture the scene how it was intended to be visualized.
Torrence is one of those characters where you will struggle to know exactly how to feel about her. She’s layers of complexity. Her deeds are wicked and evil, and then her determined goals to achieve power are admirable. Her steady self-awareness and slight changing of goals without it ever being blatantly stated was perfectly done.
I was given an ARC of Deification in exchange for a review.
4.5 Stars
But is the end of our world the start of another?
This grim, short story grabs the indecency of the human spirit and runs with it. Torrence is a very interesting character, dripping with strength and violence both. Her goals are easy to understand, and her methods to achieve them will make you shudder.
Dean unpacks what parts of the human mind are driven towards chaos, to harm done, to violence. The way that people use others as a means to an end. In a semi-apocalyptic world, a lawless world, how far would those already without morals go to achieve their goals? This book takes a very raw approach to this, inspecting evil on every level.
The balance, however, is also there - the opposite side of it is War. A character with a set of morals quite opposite of Torrence’s. The way the two characters are drawn to each other was very well written. I wanted to explore it more, to understand it more, though what we are given is certainly satisfying. War had a lot of internal conflict that showed he could be swayed by human intricacies; it was this that set War apart from the other characters.
There were some instances where, due to the smoothness of the writing, I was unsure if what I was reading was past or present. Also to note, there were some moments where I couldn’t exactly picture the scene how it was intended to be visualized.
Torrence is one of those characters where you will struggle to know exactly how to feel about her. She’s layers of complexity. Her deeds are wicked and evil, and then her determined goals to achieve power are admirable. Her steady self-awareness and slight changing of goals without it ever being blatantly stated was perfectly done.
I was given an ARC of Deification in exchange for a review.
4.5 Stars
February 18, 2021
“He was the subject of dreams while being the fuel of nightmares.” Such a great line! I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Brooklynn sure can write some beautiful prose, her descriptions are unique and vivid, while her storyline is fresh and original. If you’re a fan of dystopian horror, pick this one up!
April 29, 2021
Brooklyn Dean writes with clarity, passion and excellence in this dark and dystopian thriller. She unlocks a world of demons and angels on Earth, and we see this through the eyes of a powerful killer named Torrance. She is a chosen one, and must perform 7 ritualistic sacrifices in order to obtain her status as a god; however, will she be stopped?
I love the story and the character of Torrance, she is a tough, beautiful and bewitching woman in the best style of most villains. It always seems to be the baddies who are the most interesting people, perhaps because we need to find reasons why they are so awful. Brooklyn really delves deep into the psyche of her, as she does with all the characters. i particularly love that Torrance's followers are called the Merry Men, and are named after famous killers, both real and fictional.
This was such a good read, a real page-turner (or flipper if you are a Kindle). Brooklyn has control over her dialogue and knows her characters very well. She sets scenes beautifully, and delivers rich prose that slides you effortlessly into her world. She reminded me of Stephen King when I read this, it is dark, edgy, and spine-tingling as all the best King books are.
highly recommended.
I love the story and the character of Torrance, she is a tough, beautiful and bewitching woman in the best style of most villains. It always seems to be the baddies who are the most interesting people, perhaps because we need to find reasons why they are so awful. Brooklyn really delves deep into the psyche of her, as she does with all the characters. i particularly love that Torrance's followers are called the Merry Men, and are named after famous killers, both real and fictional.
This was such a good read, a real page-turner (or flipper if you are a Kindle). Brooklyn has control over her dialogue and knows her characters very well. She sets scenes beautifully, and delivers rich prose that slides you effortlessly into her world. She reminded me of Stephen King when I read this, it is dark, edgy, and spine-tingling as all the best King books are.
highly recommended.
February 17, 2021
This is my third attempt to write a review for DEIFICATION. Every time I think I know what I'm going to say and pick my copy up to make sure I'm remembering things correctly, I find another layer or question. That isn't a knock at all- in fact it's the opposite. At just over 100 pages, I'm blown away by how much ground is covered. I'm going to keep this short since I don't want to spoil anything.
Brief synopsis time: It's the end of the world as we know it. The gates of Heaven and Hell are open. We follow Torrence as she leads a gang of merry men to kill and sacrifice in the hopes of restoring power to Conrad- a man that was at least at one time possessed by a demon and had his prophecies recorded on tape.
Though this book is short, this isn't a quick or easy read. Read too quickly and you'll miss things that you wish you hadn't. I ended up almost re-reading it unintentionally just looking for clues I'd missed and I didn't rush through it the first time. The prose is beautiful and the sentence structure reminds me of Poe a little bit; long sentences with multiple commas, where so much is left up to interpretation. It may not look that way at first- much of it appears straightforward, but then a revelation later will have you poring over an already read section and discovering that that sentence you read could have meant something else.
You're probably not going to like any of the characters much and that makes sense. They're terrible people doing terrible things for terrible reasons, even though we are given reasons to empathize with them at times. Not to excuse them, but at least to understand them. I do wish we knew a little more about Torrence- her backstory doesn't go very far into the past whereas we learn a little more about other characters.
I'll admit, some of this may have gone over my head. There are some very large questions asked and answers don't come easy. I don't think there's anything wrong with that and it all seems very intentional. I enjoyed the book at lot and pondering about it afterwards. This is the type of book I want others to read just so we can discuss our interpretations. So if you're down for an apocalyptic tale that will make you think about the nature of power, destiny, and a lot of other things- check this out.
* I was sent an ARC for review by the author.
Brief synopsis time: It's the end of the world as we know it. The gates of Heaven and Hell are open. We follow Torrence as she leads a gang of merry men to kill and sacrifice in the hopes of restoring power to Conrad- a man that was at least at one time possessed by a demon and had his prophecies recorded on tape.
Though this book is short, this isn't a quick or easy read. Read too quickly and you'll miss things that you wish you hadn't. I ended up almost re-reading it unintentionally just looking for clues I'd missed and I didn't rush through it the first time. The prose is beautiful and the sentence structure reminds me of Poe a little bit; long sentences with multiple commas, where so much is left up to interpretation. It may not look that way at first- much of it appears straightforward, but then a revelation later will have you poring over an already read section and discovering that that sentence you read could have meant something else.
You're probably not going to like any of the characters much and that makes sense. They're terrible people doing terrible things for terrible reasons, even though we are given reasons to empathize with them at times. Not to excuse them, but at least to understand them. I do wish we knew a little more about Torrence- her backstory doesn't go very far into the past whereas we learn a little more about other characters.
I'll admit, some of this may have gone over my head. There are some very large questions asked and answers don't come easy. I don't think there's anything wrong with that and it all seems very intentional. I enjoyed the book at lot and pondering about it afterwards. This is the type of book I want others to read just so we can discuss our interpretations. So if you're down for an apocalyptic tale that will make you think about the nature of power, destiny, and a lot of other things- check this out.
* I was sent an ARC for review by the author.
March 9, 2021
The intimate description and deep prose will consume you long before the apocalypse…
Brooklyn Dean delivers her unique brand of intimate description and style in this apocalyptic tale which carries a depth that’ll consume you and I’m okay with that. Set in a world after the ‘sky opened’ we meet ‘Torrence’ who is on a high stakes path to collect virtues and ascend to a whole new sinister level. She’ll promise you power in return for loyalty for helping her cause which is lined with violent and ritualistic blood spilling but before we even get there this story begins with intrigue and mystery. Just what happened in this part dystopian world? Who is ‘Torrence’ really? And what is she trying to achieve? This intrigue partnered alongside the vivid description and prose is where you’ll find the true strength because sometimes it’s not what’s there, but what could be and it’ll keep you turning pages while building the world in your imagination. Stories that let the imagination breathe like this are hard to come by.
“It was as if, for her and her brethren and her violent delights, the world should have always been this way…”
While on the surface there is symbolism near enough everywhere but like all of Brooklynn Dean’s works it operates on a much deeper level with metaphors throughout that individual readers will interpret in their own way – yet another strength this book has and watch out because it will consume you. To the less applied or even those not paying proper attention it might appear to be just about the end of days but I assure you it is more than that and you’ll find it happening beneath those words. Unique and stylistic, this is a story that cannot be missed.
Brooklyn Dean delivers her unique brand of intimate description and style in this apocalyptic tale which carries a depth that’ll consume you and I’m okay with that. Set in a world after the ‘sky opened’ we meet ‘Torrence’ who is on a high stakes path to collect virtues and ascend to a whole new sinister level. She’ll promise you power in return for loyalty for helping her cause which is lined with violent and ritualistic blood spilling but before we even get there this story begins with intrigue and mystery. Just what happened in this part dystopian world? Who is ‘Torrence’ really? And what is she trying to achieve? This intrigue partnered alongside the vivid description and prose is where you’ll find the true strength because sometimes it’s not what’s there, but what could be and it’ll keep you turning pages while building the world in your imagination. Stories that let the imagination breathe like this are hard to come by.
“It was as if, for her and her brethren and her violent delights, the world should have always been this way…”
While on the surface there is symbolism near enough everywhere but like all of Brooklynn Dean’s works it operates on a much deeper level with metaphors throughout that individual readers will interpret in their own way – yet another strength this book has and watch out because it will consume you. To the less applied or even those not paying proper attention it might appear to be just about the end of days but I assure you it is more than that and you’ll find it happening beneath those words. Unique and stylistic, this is a story that cannot be missed.
October 12, 2021
Deification is the first book of the anti-gospel series by the incredibly talented Brooklynn Dean — the story is centred around Torrance, Tor, and her band of depraved ‘brothers’ on a brutal journey to destroy virtues. I enjoyed the multi-POV as it provided a broader picture of this dystopian world after the “sky opened.” It was fun to just sit back and watch the story unfold, as it were. As spectator into the carnage Dean writes with vivid language and imagery. It was one hell of a ride. (Pun intended) 😈
I’m excited to get into the next book as the ending was tantalisingly brief—begging you for more. It’s been a perfect read for spooky season and definitely a top contender among my indie authors favourites.
I’m excited to get into the next book as the ending was tantalisingly brief—begging you for more. It’s been a perfect read for spooky season and definitely a top contender among my indie authors favourites.
October 4, 2021
It did start off somewhat confusing (definitely keep the cover synopsis in mind when starting), but the premise is certainly interesting. It does pick up further in. I do believe there are more after this, and I will be looking to read more. Brooklynn was awesome to meet and was so nice at Mountaineer Comic Con. Cool premise, awesome author, and plenty of room to expand the story? No problem reading more of this sick and twisted apocalyptical tale.
March 26, 2021
Goodreads users, take note: Brooklynn Dean's 'Deification' is an exceptional read. If you're in the market for solid, thought-provoking horror with apocalyptic overtones, you can't go wrong here. It's set in a near-future where the End Times have begun, and both angels and demons walk the earth. The Rapture has taken all them kindly, God-fearin' folks to the hereafter, but make no mistake, this book isn't some Bible-thumping diatribe decked out in horror drag; in a bold move, 'Deification' focuses on the story's villain: Torrence, a career criminal who is enamored with Conrad, a cult leader who may be the Anticrhist, and has assembled a gang of thugs with the intention of helping him ascend to ultimate satanic power by killing those of pure virtue. To that end she commits ritual murder, but the plot thickens when she develops feelings for one of her intended victims, who may just be an angel from Heaven sent to stop her...
The thing I love most about 'Deification', in addition to all the high-tension terror, is Dean's vivacious, intense prose--her work oozes with the raw power of an imaginative mind unleashed, and she delivers scenes of unadulterated, chilling brutality with an energy rarely seen in what passes for modern horror ficiton. It's something new, and unlike so many books released today, this isn't just intended to entertain. Dean has utilized that most dangerous of literary weapons in crafting 'Deification': ideas, and at its core lies the primary question of why those of us who embrace horror for entertainment do so. She allows us to draw our own conclusion to that answer, but guides us along to the harrowing finale with masterful skill.
If you're tired of the thirty-six flavors of imitation Stephen King that horror often seems to be and want something with intelligence, attitude and panache to go pair with your bloodshed, I HIGHLY recommend 'Deification.' And the best part? There's already a sequel in the works.
The thing I love most about 'Deification', in addition to all the high-tension terror, is Dean's vivacious, intense prose--her work oozes with the raw power of an imaginative mind unleashed, and she delivers scenes of unadulterated, chilling brutality with an energy rarely seen in what passes for modern horror ficiton. It's something new, and unlike so many books released today, this isn't just intended to entertain. Dean has utilized that most dangerous of literary weapons in crafting 'Deification': ideas, and at its core lies the primary question of why those of us who embrace horror for entertainment do so. She allows us to draw our own conclusion to that answer, but guides us along to the harrowing finale with masterful skill.
If you're tired of the thirty-six flavors of imitation Stephen King that horror often seems to be and want something with intelligence, attitude and panache to go pair with your bloodshed, I HIGHLY recommend 'Deification.' And the best part? There's already a sequel in the works.
June 5, 2021
This is my fourth Brooklynn Dean book, and she has this ability to create these delicate, vulnerable male creatures I just want to squeeze into a little ball and eat alive. War, so dichotomically named in this book, is no different. Dean writes with such passion and the prose alone is worth the read!
August 31, 2022
It took me a bit to figure out what was going on but once I did it was a great violent read.
March 12, 2021
I’ve read this three times already? An amazing book that goes into some very dark places. I don’t want to spoil anything at all but I will say Is this book is not the normal good versus evil story. Go into this one as blind as you can
July 20, 2021
This was a dark and edgy post-apocalyptic horror story about good versus bad. It's short but don't let that fool you, it's not an easy read. The story is thought-provoking and makes you realise that some of the worst monsters in life are real people.
I love how Dean writes with passion and sets the scenes beautifully. The descriptions are vivid and her prose is beautiful. As in her other novel, there's more than just the words you see. I think that different parts of the story are gonna be appealing for different people.
This is an unique story with a strong woman as main character. Torrence is a power-hungry leader. She likes violence and she doesn't apologize for who she is. She listens to her own instincts and makes her own decisions. Books with a strong female character always makes my heart flutter. I also liked that there wasn't a romance involved. It was just about Torrence. There aren't enough books about strong female characters that are independent and doesn't look for romance everywhere.
Torrence is a badass surrounded by men. I think Deann wanted to show us how powerful Torrence is and I do get that. Women who claim their lives for themselves, who pursue their dreams regardless of how many people have told them they couldn't do it, is empowering.
While reading I was thinking about something. There's just one interesting female character which limits the possibilities for women to identify with the character and develop a deeper connection. One female protagonist also means that while many men can make it to the top only one women can. Does the society teach us that all men can make it but women have to be in a certain way to make it to the top? Nonetheless Torrence really stands out. She is convincing , interesting and I wanted to know more about her but maybe Deann left that out on purpose. Hopefully I'll get to know more about her in the sequel that came out yesterday. I can't wait to see what happens.
If you love to read about an imaginary place where life is bad because of terror and you appreciate more than the words that are written. Then give this one a go!
I love how Dean writes with passion and sets the scenes beautifully. The descriptions are vivid and her prose is beautiful. As in her other novel, there's more than just the words you see. I think that different parts of the story are gonna be appealing for different people.
This is an unique story with a strong woman as main character. Torrence is a power-hungry leader. She likes violence and she doesn't apologize for who she is. She listens to her own instincts and makes her own decisions. Books with a strong female character always makes my heart flutter. I also liked that there wasn't a romance involved. It was just about Torrence. There aren't enough books about strong female characters that are independent and doesn't look for romance everywhere.
Torrence is a badass surrounded by men. I think Deann wanted to show us how powerful Torrence is and I do get that. Women who claim their lives for themselves, who pursue their dreams regardless of how many people have told them they couldn't do it, is empowering.
While reading I was thinking about something. There's just one interesting female character which limits the possibilities for women to identify with the character and develop a deeper connection. One female protagonist also means that while many men can make it to the top only one women can. Does the society teach us that all men can make it but women have to be in a certain way to make it to the top? Nonetheless Torrence really stands out. She is convincing , interesting and I wanted to know more about her but maybe Deann left that out on purpose. Hopefully I'll get to know more about her in the sequel that came out yesterday. I can't wait to see what happens.
If you love to read about an imaginary place where life is bad because of terror and you appreciate more than the words that are written. Then give this one a go!
June 15, 2021
The Good: That was one intense ride. The skies have opened, hell is coming to earth, and a woman named Torrence leads a band of misfit criminals on a spree to sacrifice seven virtuous innocents in a ritual meant to fill her and her mysterious cult savior with unparalleled power. An imaginative story full of blood and lust and greed and...well, all the deadly sins.
The Bad: Literature generally plays on good vs evil. Even in horror, good usually wins the day. There's generally a hero or at least an anti-hero. This book is simply the evil getting more evil by the day. There are some good characters but they're weak and useless and really the whole story seems to be encouraging the evil. There's no one to root for.
The Ugly: The book could definitely use some editing. Misspelled words, repeated words, omitted words, the usual. And some of the flashback scenes seemed too long, slowing down the momentum of the main story.
The Quirky: Read this list of character names and tell me what pops into your mind: Torrence, Wesley, Jason, Michael, Freddy, Skeet, Jack. Do any horror movie bells go clanging in your head? i know they did in mine.
The Conclusion: A good story, definitely intense and obviously well thought-out, but people who want to hold out hope for humanity and the good in people might want to pick something different.
Content Warning: Aside from the obvious lots of blood and violence, there's also self-harm and rape. So be aware.
The Bad: Literature generally plays on good vs evil. Even in horror, good usually wins the day. There's generally a hero or at least an anti-hero. This book is simply the evil getting more evil by the day. There are some good characters but they're weak and useless and really the whole story seems to be encouraging the evil. There's no one to root for.
The Ugly: The book could definitely use some editing. Misspelled words, repeated words, omitted words, the usual. And some of the flashback scenes seemed too long, slowing down the momentum of the main story.
The Quirky: Read this list of character names and tell me what pops into your mind: Torrence, Wesley, Jason, Michael, Freddy, Skeet, Jack. Do any horror movie bells go clanging in your head? i know they did in mine.
The Conclusion: A good story, definitely intense and obviously well thought-out, but people who want to hold out hope for humanity and the good in people might want to pick something different.
Content Warning: Aside from the obvious lots of blood and violence, there's also self-harm and rape. So be aware.
March 6, 2022
3.5⭐
Post apocalyptic books aren't my school of choice but after reading about this one I thought I'd take a punt.
The skies have opened. Angels descend to the earth. Some claim the angels have given them psychic abilities and they feel the spiritual presences rising from hell.
The story follows Torrence and her band of lone wolves on their mission to sacrifice seven virtuous innocents to satisfy Conrad the demonic.
The book goes down the path of the collection of the last few virtues and flashes back to when Torrence collected her band of men, Michael, Jason, Freddy and Wesley. Names sound familiar?
There's no denying this is a good story. Was this book for me? Probably not. Would I recommend it? Read the synopsis on goodreads and maybe it's a book suited to you.
Post apocalyptic books aren't my school of choice but after reading about this one I thought I'd take a punt.
The skies have opened. Angels descend to the earth. Some claim the angels have given them psychic abilities and they feel the spiritual presences rising from hell.
The story follows Torrence and her band of lone wolves on their mission to sacrifice seven virtuous innocents to satisfy Conrad the demonic.
The book goes down the path of the collection of the last few virtues and flashes back to when Torrence collected her band of men, Michael, Jason, Freddy and Wesley. Names sound familiar?
There's no denying this is a good story. Was this book for me? Probably not. Would I recommend it? Read the synopsis on goodreads and maybe it's a book suited to you.
January 6, 2022
From page one, the literary wordsmith knocked me back with flowing sentences that sucked me into an ever darkening world. The beauty that is the main character, Torrence, allured me and I wanted to know her more, disturbing as she might be.
Her misfit gang, her brothers in debauchery, fit the depiction of everything we are taught to fear. Yet their physic and dedication made me jealous they weren't mine.
Dean tells of the "end times" in Deification, the coming of the dark messiah. I started this book, read most of it before bed, and dreamed of this disturbing world. I wanted to be part of it.
It has the elegance required to speak of horrors done to our fellow man; Dean holds no punches on positively disturbing actions against others. (The story would have lost so much had she done so!)
Deification is the twisted, INTELLIGENT prose I HAD to have in my life I didn't even know I needed. The skies are open?? Human sacrifice?? Angels, and art?? Murder, mayhem and torment? Wait, why am I so aroused?
As I lay the book down upon finishing it, I can only say one final thing: I Wollongong join the congregation of Tor. She is the dark saviour I choose.
(I immediately purchased the second book in this series, Grieving the Spirit. Now I must wait treacherous days before the story may continue.)
Her misfit gang, her brothers in debauchery, fit the depiction of everything we are taught to fear. Yet their physic and dedication made me jealous they weren't mine.
Dean tells of the "end times" in Deification, the coming of the dark messiah. I started this book, read most of it before bed, and dreamed of this disturbing world. I wanted to be part of it.
It has the elegance required to speak of horrors done to our fellow man; Dean holds no punches on positively disturbing actions against others. (The story would have lost so much had she done so!)
Deification is the twisted, INTELLIGENT prose I HAD to have in my life I didn't even know I needed. The skies are open?? Human sacrifice?? Angels, and art?? Murder, mayhem and torment? Wait, why am I so aroused?
As I lay the book down upon finishing it, I can only say one final thing: I Wollongong join the congregation of Tor. She is the dark saviour I choose.
(I immediately purchased the second book in this series, Grieving the Spirit. Now I must wait treacherous days before the story may continue.)
March 12, 2023
I've heard Brooklyn's writing described as purple prose, but my perception of purple prose didn't really align with what Deification was. I found Deification to be beautifully concise. In fact, by the end of it, I really hungered for more and I'm so glad more of the series is out because I would've been upset not being able to grab the next book.
Deification is one of those books I actually was excited to pick up again after each evening of being physically forced to put it down. Despite being quite short (and easily bingeable if that's your mood), I enjoyed the experience of taking this slowly because the intentionality of the power and perception of the narrative voice. I was really worried about missing anything about Torrence. Torrence's narrative voice was so potent that it sometimes over came War and Wesley. I couldn't help but to feel and see Torrence in everything.
This book takes you on a wild ride of devotion and true empowerment. It's dark and it's interesting. It's twisted, but its beautiful. It's supernatural, but it's realistic.
I recommend Deification to any readers who are into something that's closer to a psychological literary thriller akin to a Charles Manson fantasy dream, rather than a classic horror novel.
I will definitely be reading the next book.
Deification is one of those books I actually was excited to pick up again after each evening of being physically forced to put it down. Despite being quite short (and easily bingeable if that's your mood), I enjoyed the experience of taking this slowly because the intentionality of the power and perception of the narrative voice. I was really worried about missing anything about Torrence. Torrence's narrative voice was so potent that it sometimes over came War and Wesley. I couldn't help but to feel and see Torrence in everything.
This book takes you on a wild ride of devotion and true empowerment. It's dark and it's interesting. It's twisted, but its beautiful. It's supernatural, but it's realistic.
I recommend Deification to any readers who are into something that's closer to a psychological literary thriller akin to a Charles Manson fantasy dream, rather than a classic horror novel.
I will definitely be reading the next book.
July 2, 2022
Picture it: It's the end of times. The sky is split, literally shorn into two, letting celestial beings drop to earth. Dark entities also lurk... Torrence is watching as the split grows wider with GLEE.
See, each time she and her band of twisted followers inflict bloody violence in an antigospel ritual she believes she's made more powerful. Also, Torrence has promised these men--they all are enamored with her as she offers them acceptance to their depraved natures-- special privileges that henge on their success.
And Torrence demands nothing short of unfailing loyalty. She's violent, black hearted, but yet there's an enigma about her. If she is so evil, why is she obsessed with the beautiful War, who is as beautiful spiritually as he is physically? He really isn't her normal type, so unlike the sadistic man, Conrad on the videotape that has cemented her lust of violence over a decade ago.
If you like end of times stories, strong female characters, and/or detailed prose, this could be for you.
See, each time she and her band of twisted followers inflict bloody violence in an antigospel ritual she believes she's made more powerful. Also, Torrence has promised these men--they all are enamored with her as she offers them acceptance to their depraved natures-- special privileges that henge on their success.
And Torrence demands nothing short of unfailing loyalty. She's violent, black hearted, but yet there's an enigma about her. If she is so evil, why is she obsessed with the beautiful War, who is as beautiful spiritually as he is physically? He really isn't her normal type, so unlike the sadistic man, Conrad on the videotape that has cemented her lust of violence over a decade ago.
If you like end of times stories, strong female characters, and/or detailed prose, this could be for you.
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