When Devils Sing: A Haunting Southern Journey
When I first picked up When Devils Sing by Xan Kur, I was instantly drawn in by its promise of Southern tales rich with secrets, power struggles, and that spine-tingling tension between the haves and have-nots. As someone who has an undeniable addiction to stories steeped in eerie atmospheres and supernatural intrigue, I felt an almost magnetic pull to this novel. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
Set against the backdrop of a divided Southwestern Georgia, the novel immerses readers in the contrasting worlds of the affluent Lakeside community and the struggling town of Carrion. The story opens chillingly with a podcast episode from Secrets of the South, introducing us to the mysterious disappearances that have haunted Carrion for generations. This eerie prologue sets the stage for a tale filled with dark magic and the sinister allure of power, laying out the groundwork for a gripping adventure.
The heart of this story lies in the lives of four outcast teens: Sam, Neera, Isaiah, and Reid. While I connected deeply with all of them, Sam and Neera stood out as fierce and brave protagonists. Sam’s journey of desperation—kicked out of her home and entangled with the enigmatic Jack, who can revive the dead—creates a gripping tension that had me on the edge of my seat. Neera, dreaming of her musical future while grappling with her family’s debts and tragedies, brings a profound emotional depth to the narrative. Their struggles felt so authentic, and I found myself rooting for them, wishing I could shield them from the harsh realities they faced.
Xan Kur’s writing style is captivating and poetic, weaving a rich Southern gothic atmosphere that makes every page a sensory experience. The pacing is expertly crafted, alternating between moments of high tension and quieter introspection, allowing me to savor the characters’ growth and the unfolding mysteries without feeling rushed. The plot twists are genuinely surprising—just when I thought I had it all figured out, Kur would throw in a curveball that left me breathless.
One moment that resonated profoundly was when Reid reflects on the curse that befalls Carrion every thirteen years, making me question the very nature of evil in this town. It made me ponder: Are the devils in disguise truly among them, or is the darkness a product of the community’s own making? This philosophical layer adds depth to what could have easily been a straightforward horror story.
When Devils Sing has reflexive themes on family, community, and the struggles against one’s own demons, both literal and metaphorical. As someone who delights in Southern horror, I can confidently say this book has solidified itself as my favorite of the year. It’s a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature, power dynamics, and personal courage wrapped in a hauntingly beautiful narrative.
I would highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys Southern gothic tales, supernatural intrigue, or compelling character arcs. If you’re a fan of Grady Hendrix’s works or movies like Ryan Coogler’s Sinner, this book will resonate with you on multiple levels. Overall, When Devils Sing is not just a book; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last page is turned.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for providing a digital review copy of this masterpiece. I can’t wait to see what Xan Kur has in store next—this author is officially on my auto-approved list! You won’t want to miss this one; be sure to add it to your TBR and prepare for a thrilling ride!
Discover more about When Devils Sing on GoodReads >>