I Was A Teenage Slasher: A Novel By Stephen Graham Jones

In Stephen Graham Jones's chilling novel set in 1989 Lamesa, Texas, "My Heart Is a Chainsaw," he crafts a gripping slasher tale with a narrative twist that delves into the psyche of its protagonist, Tolly Driver. Lamesa, a small town driven by the industries of oil and cotton, becomes the backdrop for a story where everyone's lives intertwine, and secrets simmer beneath the surface.

Tolly Driver is a seventeen-year-old outsider, perceived as having potential but lacking the drive to fulfill it. His life takes a dark turn when he finds himself driven by a compulsion for revenge, a curse that forces him into a role of unexpected violence and horror. Stephen Graham Jones, drawing from his own Texas upbringing, vividly portrays the dynamics of small-town life, where personal histories and community gossip shape destinies.

What sets "My Heart Is a Chainsaw" apart is its narrative perspective—from the viewpoint of the killer himself. Tolly Driver narrates his own story, writing an autobiography that explores not just the horrors he commits but also the circumstances that lead him down this path. It's a chilling exploration of the human psyche, where readers find themselves compelled to empathize with a character typically seen as the antagonist.

Jones masterfully blends elements of teen movie nostalgia with blood-curdling horror, creating a tale that is both tragic and suspenseful. As Tolly's story unfolds, the tension builds towards a devastating climax, challenging readers to confront their own perceptions of morality and justice in the face of unrelenting darkness.

"My Heart Is a Chainsaw" is a must-read for fans of Riley Sager and Grady Hendrix, offering a fresh take on the slasher genre that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. 📚❤️