Did I have a good time reading this book? No! But did I love it? Yes! I received a digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.

The Divine Flesh is not going to take it easy on you. It’s just people doing the best with what they’ve been given, but unfortunately what they have been given is some kind of cosmic horror sharing the body of the main character.

Expect body horror, violence, and shitty people.

Wow, what a wild ride! What happens when the fate of the earth is left in the hands of a drug addict who is her own worst enemy? Well, you will need to read this book to find out. This was a highly entertaining gore fest, with truly detestable characters that you can’t help but root for. A worthy addition to any TBR for fans of cosmic, body, and splatterpunk horror!

super trippy and perpetually completely bonkers. like an Awad with a hefty dose of flesh. 4 stars, because it opens slow. tysm for the arc.

Hmmm… I don’t know about this one.

This book follows Jennifer, who has to share her body with a being called the Divine Flesh, a murderous, kind of crazy, alien being. Jennifer takes a drug that splits the two of them into 2 bodies, but the divine flesh goes on a bit of a rampage, and chaos ensues.

What I liked:
This book was incredibly unique and I’ve definitely never read anything like it. I mean, read that plot synopsis and you can see how interesting of a concept it is. I think this author is undeniably very talented and has a brain that is made for writing odd little books.

The whole mirror people/eggs subplot was really cool to me, and honestly more engaging than anything else happening in the story.

The Divine Flesh herself was really funny and I liked the sections focusing more on her. It was fresh and I liked those parts significantly more than when Jennifer was at the helm.

What I didn’t like:
Man, I hated Jennifer. I also hated Daryl. I understand this is probably intentional, but I can only take so much. At least the Divine Flesh was fun despite the crazy messed up things she was doing. I just did not connect with either of them in any way, and as the story is mostly about them, I felt very disconnected from a lot of the book.

I also think this book was just a little too long. It dragged HARD in parts for me and it made it hard to finish. I found myself reading like a page at a time and then closing the book and repeating for days on end because I was just not engaged.

If you like very strange, disturbing, gory little books about weird possessions and alien entities, I think you’ll should give this a shot! I normally like those things, but unfortunately the disconnect I felt from two of the main characters was just too much for me to overlook. I do think I would pick up future books by this author, though, as they clearly are incredibly inventive and I do like that.

2 stars for a undeniably unique yet not super enjoyable read.

A bit like edgy emo Clive Barker on crack?
Less funny John Dies at the End with more theological discussions and relationship talk?

This took to about the 30% mark to catch up with the blurb and that´s pretty long... It is very violent, very gory, so not for the squeamish but I also found the description of the violence and gore to be a bit long and I got bored a bit by them? I do like fictional violence but there are only so many ways organs can be taken out and rearranged that hold my attention tbh.
I am not sure whether I liked the stream of consciousness-y style (still need to think about that) but I did enjoy the use of the parenthesis and italics, that was clever and well done. Having two different characters 's PV in first person was a bit confusing at times. Not too bad because they were distinguishable, though. I loved D.F., btw. Great character. Everybody else was very unlikeable to me but also nicely fleshed out and believable, down to the many side characters.

I am not convinced the mirror people storyline was needed as their contribution to the story could have been done in another way and I took nothing away from their being there. Might have gotten a little too long through that?
At some point I thought I reached the big finale and then saw I had another 50% left. Our MC's getting caught, running off, making a plan, getting caught etc... could maybe have been cut a bit?
Do prepare for lots of theological discussions, it might be that the word "god" was used as much as the letter e. Also lots of futile relationship discussions and self analysis for the MC's.

I was expecting to have more fun in a psychotic, manic way, this was not the romp I was hoping for but overall I did enjoy it.

More of a 3.5 rounded up, not bad but not one of my new faves either. Will keep an eye out for the author though.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the e-arc copy of this book.

Well this unfortunately doesn't happen often, but 2 stars for this book. This was just a really big miss for me.

I'll start with what I enjoyed - I loved the banter between The Divine Flesh and Jennifer. Well, really TDF and whoever. She was spunky and spicy and funny. That alone kept this book from just being a one star. I also enjoyed the plot in general- this was unique and fun in some ways. I also really loved the cover and felt it conveyed the book well. I enjoyed the body horror elements as well.

In theory this should have been a 4 star read for me, I think, but there was a lot that held it back. I love horror of all varieties so this should have been an easy win.

The main thing was how it was written. This story feels like 85% dialogue and a lot of it is internal monologue between TDF and Jennifer/Daryl. Unfortunately, it's kind of hard to keep up with WHO is talking to WHOM and so on.

Secondly, I honestly didn't care for any of the characters. They all were awful people, so it was hard to care about any of their plights. TDF excluded but that's the 'monster' so...

Thirdly, this book felt painfully long. By about 100 pages in I felt like the story had ran its course but somehow still had 177 more pages to go. It was just super long winded and I was ready to be done at about 30% but kept up since this is an ARC read and I rarely fully DNF. Alas though, as it didn't get better.

Anyway - I applaud the author for the unique horror twists, and a nice attempt with body/cosmic horror. Ultimately this would have been a little better as a novella I think, but I'm sure others will love it anyway!

Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review this title. I will be checking out the authors other works, even if this one wasn't for me.

This is a spoiler-free review! This is an ARC review - The Divine Flesh will be available on March 4, 2025. Please read trigger warnings - reader discretion is advised.

I would first like to thank NetGalley and Dark Matter INK for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. There is an insane amount of body horror in this book, and after the excellence that was The Substance (2024), I was excited to see what the genre had in store for us this year. This book was so much more intense than I expected - the author does not hold back, and brings the readers in for a ride they did not see coming. The fascinating concept of the Divine Flesh and Jennifer existing together a single body truly adds a level of self-awareness and power dynamics to their characterizations.

The internal struggle we see not only with the Divine Flesh and Jennifer, but a multitude of side characters, was a great touch by Duff. We are able to contextualize the significance their actions have on the outside world, and how their power struggle influences a domino effect on a number of people. The intensity of change in which every character had to experience, whether it being trapped, hunted, or seeking a common goal, was absolutely more than I expected. This book went places I never expected, and the author truly pushed the boundaries of body horror and everything in between.

Jennifer and the Divine Flesh being one individual while simultaneously being two entirely different beings really drove the story to its true conflict point, and without their internal battle with each other, so many consequences could have been avoided. The Divine Flesh's reasoning to be separated from Jennifer differed from Jennifer's own reasoning to be separated, and with that came the downfall of so many individuals. Daryl's involvement with both the Divine Flesh and Jennifer could be considered the major factor that lead to the explosion of events in this book, and his presence throughout the story has significant impact on Jennifer and the Divine Flesh's actions.

Horror enthusiasts will be thrilled by Huff's work, and the squeamish should proceed with caution. The tone of the book is heavy and extreme - every single action had an immediate consequence that could lead to even more potent reaction from another character. Every single page had presented with something new and absolutely unimaginable - there were so many instances where I could not believe what I was reading. Every page felt as through I was exposed to something so completely out of the park, and Huff's ability to create so many nuanced characters while still upholding the integrity of the book's main theme kept me drawn in.

Emotionally, these characters are put through the ringer, and physically, they are completely transformed by the end of this book. Much like how humans evolve and grow, these characters are challenged beyond their wildest expectations and realities in order to get to their final form. Literary fiction and body horror merge together to form a symbiotic connection, much like Jennifer and the Divine Flesh's beginning relationship.

The Divine Flesh is an absolute mind-bender of a book—one that’s weird, wild, and completely unforgettable. From the moment you dive into Jennifer Plummer’s chaotic world, you’re hooked. The premise is delightfully weird: Jennifer and the entity known as the Divine Flesh are trapped inside her body, locked in an uneasy coexistence, both despising each other, yet both somehow in love with Jennifer’s ex-husband, Daryl. It’s an absurd setup that leads to an even more absurd, but thoroughly entertaining, journey.

The plot takes off when Jennifer takes a risky experimental drug to rid herself of the Divine Flesh once and for all. But instead of freedom, she unleashes a catastrophic chain of events. Expelled from her body, the Divine Flesh becomes a cosmic, all-consuming entity capable of loving everyone to death, literally. And now Jennifer, along with Daryl (her clueless yet surprisingly capable ex-husband), must figure out how to save not just their relationship, but the entire universe from total annihilation.

Huff’s writing is darkly comedic. She seems to relish the absurd, creating an insane tale that just worked for me. The dynamic between Jennifer and the Divine Flesh is funny, tragic, and oddly relatable. And let’s not forget about Daryl, the unassuming electrician from rural Idaho, who somehow ends up in the middle of this cosmic battle. Huff does an amazing job of balancing the outrageous with the sincere. There’s humor here, but also a surprising amount of depth—especially when it comes to Jennifer’s relationship with both the Divine Flesh and Daryl. It’s a perfect storm of chaotic energy and heart.

If you’re looking for a book that’s utterly unique, wildly original, and completely unpredictable, The Divine Flesh is it. It’s a rollercoaster from start to finish, and I couldn’t put it down. Absolutely five stars—this one’s a keeper. I cannot wait till it comes out and I can buy a copy for my shelf. The cover is brilliant!

Thank you to Drew Huff and NetGalleh for the e-arc in exchange for an honest view.

I loved the premise of the book, and was completely drawn in by the synopsis and the beautiful book cover art. Unfortunately the writing style didn’t work for me - a little too choppy and disjointed. 2 stars for the concept alone. With further editing, I think it could be a solid 3.5.

DNFd at 23% -- I had an inkling at about 5% that this novel wasn’t for me, but I wanted to give it a fair chance before giving up.

The premise was interesting, the body horror cool, even The Divine Flesh is an intriguing menace (who honestly was my favorite part), but the writing style did not jive with my brain. Though the confusion and chaos added something to the narrative, I do not think I am the ideal reader to appreciate or lean into it. I felt thrown into the deep end quite a bit and the confusion between Jennifer-baby, TDF, and the other speakers didn’t help matters. If this was a novella or a graphic novel, I think maybe I would have had a chance.

All that being said, if you are someone who is into dark themes, a vague sensation of being lost, and unhinged, parasitic goddesses, this might be exactly the book you’re looking for!

Thank you Drew Huff and Dark Matter INK for sending me a copy to read and review.

So I liked the concept of this book. But It was so confusing and I had to read certain pages twice to see if I missed something. That was irritating.

I hate that this didn't satisfy me because I was hoping it to be my first 5 star read of the year. Maybe the writing style wasn't for me. But I freaking loved the Divine Flesh parts. I wished that she was more the center of the story.

Thank you so much Netgalley and publisher for this earc. I really appreciate it.

Drew Huff delivers an intense and brutal narrative that doesn’t shy away from its grotesque and visceral nature. While the unrelenting horror may be too graphic for some tastes, the story’s creativity and unapologetic approach to its dark themes are undeniably impressive. Huff crafts a chilling atmosphere that immerses the reader in a vivid and horrifying world. Though the grotesque elements pushed my personal comfort zone, I can appreciate the skillful storytelling and the unique way the author delves into this type of horror. It’s a work that will resonate with fans of extreme and boundary-pushing fiction.

The Divine Flesh started off strong. I loved the parasitic relationship between Jennifer and The Divine Flesh and the love triangle with Darryl. Even though the Divine Flesh was full of tendrils and gore, it felt erotic, disgusting, and grotesque. Then, the world got too big in Part 3 and Part 4 completely lost me. In a way, it felt very Lynchian, and you need to pay very close attention to details because everything is connected.

A cosmic body horror WTF read that will leave you reeling! From the description, I knew this would be a wild ride from the description, but I couldn't even imagine how wild! Well written with excellent world building, I highly recommend it.

The Divine Flesh by Drew Huff is a strikingly ambitious and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of spirituality, human vulnerability, and the intersection of faith and identity. Set in a world where the physical and metaphysical are intricately intertwined, Huff crafts a narrative that challenges readers to confront profound questions about the nature of the body and soul.

The novel follows a central character who grapples with both external and internal struggles that span across religious, emotional, and philosophical realms. Huff's prose is rich and layered, and he uses vivid imagery to bring to life the complex journey of self-discovery. The text is often poetic, with moments of intense reflection that encourage readers to consider their own relationship to the divine and the material world.

One of the book's key strengths is Huff's ability to balance spiritual introspection with grounded character development. While the book certainly invites readers to consider deep existential ideas, it never loses sight of the humanity of its characters. This balance makes The Divine Flesh not just a theological exploration, but a very human one as well.

However, the novel does require patience. Its slow pacing and occasional philosophical digressions might feel overwhelming to some readers, but for those willing to invest the time, the payoff is significant. Huff’s narrative is layered, and every detail seems to serve a larger purpose in unfolding the intricate themes of the story.

Overall, The Divine Flesh is a compelling and sophisticated work that will resonate with readers who enjoy literature that challenges both the mind and the spirit. Drew Huff has written a book that is both deeply introspective and universal in its exploration of the human experience.

What a strange, grotesque story, lol.

Very splatter punk, very body horror - toeing the line of eldritch horror, very wild and confusing.

I really enjoyed the premise of this book and the writing style was incredibly unique, it's chaotic and the occasional pov change adds to the chaotic feelings in the story.

Jennifer-baby just goes from one problem to the next, with little to no reprieve in between. Damn girl, what a burden to bare.

I did however find that the subplots kind of felt "other" to the story. They were very much their own stories and I felt like they didn't add enough to the main story line and dragged down the pacing.

Overall beautifully horrifying.

This book is a freaking fever dream! So many times, I had to stop what I was doing & say to myself “WTF am I reading?!” I could NOT put this down! Forever reading anything this author puts out. The first half was full of me questioning my sanity, and trying to figure what is happening. Second half, me questioning my sanity because of how OBSESSED with this book I became.

I have already made anybody that would listen to me, sign up for NetGalley & get this book because I NEEDED TO TALK ABOUT IT WITH PEOPLE WHO KNEW WHAT THE HELL WAS HAPPENING!

This was my entry into extreme horror & I’m so happy it was. This book has every trigger under the sun but damn, the writing draws you in. I could visualize almost every word in full color.
Divine Flesh is and will be the only of its kind. Award for the most unique thing I’ve read. I originally gave it 3 stars but after thinking about this book almost every day for weeks since I’ve read it, I felt it deserved the 5 stars.

Thank you, thank you to the author, publisher & Netgalley for this eARC.

This cosmic chaos was not for me. I was excited to get this arc because the premise sounds truly intriguing, and this cover is amazing, but unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it.

What started as a fun read, quickly turned out too confusing and chaotic for me to follow. It was not a pleasant read for my brain, between the bizarreness of the narrative, the abrupt switch of POV and the numerous characters, I felt like a lost ship at sea in the middle of a storm. This was not a good experience.

I did like the visuals, and descriptions. It was extremely graphic and sometimes disgusting. It was grotesque, absurd, and sincerely not for the weak. I would say this was more on the splatter-punk side, because some descriptions were gory, but it was well written.

I know there is a solid story beneath all these layers of chaos. I could glimpse some of it, a story of control and abuse disguised as love in the most unique way. I have to say I never read anything like it, but sadly I couldn’t appreciate it.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is… a garden. A beautiful, impossible garden, sprouting alveoli studded flagella, and artery laced pseudopods, glistening with a million, billion bejeweled eyes, breathing intricate fractal tapestries of living, sculpted meat which festoon the air, singing: Love, love, love… Yud-Hey-Va-Hey.

Drew Huff paints the most lurid, Cronenburgian, and disturbing scenes with language that makes them inescapably alluring. Despite the horror of what’s being described, you find yourself unable, or perhaps unwilling to look away.
This beautiful trove of forbidden delights and exquisite prose, tell a story of hopelessness, despair, love, and redemption. A self destructive woman, a deeply broken man and a shattered god.
It is a story which shows that even the most broken, unredeemable and monstrous of us can find redemption if we can but find the capacity within us for love.
If you struggle with addiction, as your humble reviewer does, I couldn’t recommend this book more highly. If I hadn’t stopped drinking six years ago, this book may very well have been the inspiration to do so.
But as someone in recovery, I found it incredibly meaningful as well. Despite whatever mistakes I may have made or stupid things I may have done, I too am redeemable.
Yud-Hey-Va-Hey

The cover is pure perfection and the book matches it cover. I really enjoyed this dark and gruesome book. The writing is nice and the pacing perfect. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the chance to read this book.