Member Reviews
In the pages of Monilinia, Free Mints weaves a tale that delves into the depths of human desire, societal expectations, and the struggle to reconcile one's true self with the facade demanded by society. At the heart of the story lies Loukas, a young man consumed by an abhorrent longing that sets him apart from his peers. Trained to suppress his desires and fulfill his duty as the eldest son, Loukas grapples with the growing realization that his true nature may lie in embracing the very impulses he has always been taught to abhor. As Loukas crosses paths with Hide, a beast-kin repairman, he finds himself torn between his desire for acceptance and the allure of the forbidden. Hide's kindness and carefree spirit offer a glimmer of hope for a different life, one free from shame and secrets. Yet, as their bond deepens, Loukas's inner conflict intensifies. The teachings of his family and church clash with the magnetic pull of his own desires, leaving him on the precipice of undoing years of devotion. With each encounter, the boundaries between what Loukas believes he should be and who he truly is blur. The solitude he has always embraced now threatens to consume him as he wrestles with the consequences of his growing fascination for Hide. In a world where purity and impurity are rigidly defined, Loukas's struggle represents the universal human experience of grappling with our own inner darkness and the social pressures that shape our identities. Mints' writing is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the raw emotions and complexities of Loukas's journey. Through vivid imagery and thought-provoking prose, she invites readers to question their own assumptions and explore the often-contradictory nature of human desire. As Loukas's story unfolds, it raises profound questions about the limits of societal norms, the search for authenticity, and the transformative power of acceptance. In the end, Monilinia is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the resilience of those who dare to embrace their true selves, no matter the cost.