Exquisite Hunger by Emma E. Murray
Exquisite Hunger is the debut chapbook by Emma E. Murray, featuring cover art and illustrations by author and artist Caitlin Marceau. It was published by Medusa Publishing Haus on July 18, 2023 and weighs in at 22 pages.
Wow. I went into this story blind. I bought the chapbook because the blurb was intriguing, the cover art was absolutely fantastic, and I had a hunch the writing by would be superb since I’d read Murray’s work in the past. I was not disappointed. This story was refreshingly honest and disgusting at the same time. It gave me visceral reactions, and that’s one of my favorite things about reading horror.
Exquisite Hunger is gory and gross in the best ways. Being firmly entrenched in Carly’s psyche, I witnessed the birth, life, and death of an all-consuming obsession. I enjoyed watching her venture down a path of fixation with no hope of turning back. There was something mesmerizing yet terrifying about being in Carly’s mind. I felt on the brink of chaos the whole time I was reading. The mental transformation she underwent was riveting, and the anticipation for what was unfolding for her was palpable. I’d be remiss if I didn’t also shout out all of the beautful graphics throughout the story, too. This chapbook is an all around work of art.
I’ve read numerous pieces by Murray. After reading this, I’m definitely hungry (bad pun intended) for more. If you have an appetite for horror, grab a copy and sink your teeth into this quick tale. You’ll be glad you did.
This is what indie horror is all about. The cover is a mere taste of what horrors await. Exquisite Hunger is riveting, visceral, and will consume you.
Need more Emma E. Murray?
Who is Emma E. Murray?
I love to write macabre and unsettling stories, mainly in the horror and dark speculative fiction genres. When I’m not writing or reading, I love playing pretend with my daughter, hiking, and being an obnoxious bard in Dungeons and Dragons.
- From Emma E. Murray’s website
About the Publisher:
Medusa is a British Fantasy Award-nominated micro press serving to produce and uplift unique voices in the horror genre.
- From the Medusa Publishing Haus website
Check out my review of Ooze: Little Boosts of Body Horror which includes “If I Carry You” by Emma E. Murray.
