Sweetpea, book review: author C.J. Skuse
C.J. Skuse’s Sweetpea is a darkly humorous, deeply unsettling, and highly addictive psychological thriller that takes readers on a wild journey through the mind of Rhiannon Lewis a charming yet unapologetically violent sociopath. This novel blends sharp wit, biting social commentary, and grotesque violence into a unique narrative that stands out in the crowded thriller genre.
Plot
Rhiannon, the protagonist, leads a double life. On the surface, she is an ordinary woman, working as a newspaper subeditor and navigating the mundane challenges of relationships and office politics. However, underneath her unassuming exterior lies a cold-blooded killer with a penchant for meticulous planning and brutal acts of violence. Through a first-person diary format, Skuse allows readers to delve into Rhiannon’s inner world, where her thoughts oscillate between relatable frustrations and murderous fantasies. The diary entries are laced with dark humor, pop culture references, and scathing critiques of modern society, making Rhiannon a character who is equal parts horrifying and compelling.
Writing Style
One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to blur the lines between horror and humor. Skuse masterfully crafts scenes that are laugh-out-loud funny one moment and deeply disturbing the next. For example, Rhiannon’s sardonic commentary on societal norms and her disdain for the people around her are often comically relatable. However, her detailed accounts of her violent acts force readers to confront the stark contrast between her wit and her capacity for evil. This dichotomy creates a morally ambiguous narrative that keeps readers hooked, even as they question their own sympathies for the protagonist.
Supporting Characters
The supporting characters in Sweetpea further enrich the story. From Rhiannon’s insipid boyfriend Craig to her exasperating coworkers, each character serves as a foil to her dark personality. While some of these characters feel intentionally stereotypical, they provide a backdrop that highlights Rhiannon’s sharp intelligence and biting humor. Additionally, glimpses into her traumatic past offer some insight into what shaped her into the person she has become, adding layers of complexity to her character.
The novel also excels in its pacing. The diary format allows for a fast-moving, episodic structure that keeps the story engaging. Skuse’s writing is crisp and evocative, with vivid descriptions that immerse readers in Rhiannon’s world. However, the book’s reliance on shock value and graphic violence may not be for everyone. Readers with a low tolerance for gore or those who prefer more traditional protagonists might find the content overwhelming or off putting.
Pace
What sets Sweetpea apart from other thrillers is its boldness. Skuse refuses to adhere to conventional narrative norms or character archetypes, offering instead a protagonist who defies categorization. Rhiannon is not a character to root for in the traditional sense, but she is undeniably fascinating. The novel challenges readers to question their assumptions about morality, justice, and what it means to be “likable.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sweetpea is an unforgettable novel that combines razor-sharp wit with a chilling exploration of the darker corners of the human psyche. It’s a daring and provocative read, perfect for fans of antiheroes and dark humor. While not for the faint of heart, it’s a thrilling ride that will leave readers eager for the sequel. C.J. Skuse has created a character and a story that are as horrifying as they are hilariously entertaining. The Audible version of this novel is an exceptional listen.
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Richards Osman’s “The Thursday Murder Club” and brand new Crime series “We Solve Murders” reviewed Here.
