Baron Samedi: The Last Rite by Philip StengelMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book. It was richly detailed and so beautifully written with a picturesque narrative. I read the novel in three days and as I read I could picture the story being made into a very entertaining, spine-chilling movie.
I loved the vividly painted New Orleans backdrop and the cast of characters. I loved and enjoyed the Supernatural depictions of spirits and loa. I liked the describe of glowing veves and dynamic forces of energy that were at play.
The characters were multi-layered and complex. They went beyond simple stereotypes. They had identifiable motivations, a backstory, and internal conflicts that drove their actions and made them relatable and interesting.
Again, I would love to see this book made into a film. I have had firsthand experience with papa legba, erzulie, and a distinct figure that favored baron samedi in a vision twenty years ago warning me of a relative’s death–and I can say the story had tones of authenticity that made it all the more reverent, enigmatic, and creepier.
View all my reviews
LaToya Lawrence 