The Butcher and the Wren: A Novel

This was one of the most well written books I’ve ever read! Definitely a repeated favorite! The story line is so immersing and the vivid descriptions placed me “in the room” with the characters, all the way down to how I’d imagine it would smell. Absolutely amazing and I can’t wait for more from the amazing author!

I really enjoyed this book. I heard about it on her podcast, as I'm an avid listener. Enough suspense to keep it interesting, but keep it realistic.

As soon as I heard Alaina had written a book, I ordered it. I waited impatiently for it to arrive. And once it arrived, I waited for the right time to read it. Being sick with Covid forced me to slow down, and I decided it was time to read it. I started it yesterday, and finished it today. I wish recovering from Covid was as easy!I liked the creepy insanity of the antagonist, and the setting was perfect for such an individual. I liked the switch between points of view, and the twist in part Two. I'm not sure if it was the fever I was fighting or what, but I found some of the protagonist's story confusing at times... a little of the old Agatha Christie "don't tell them everything" strategy at play. Or maybe Edgar A. Poe, whose narrator tells us he's insane right from the get-go. (pausing for a coughing attack--ooh, is that my lung? Wow...better clean that sucker off and stuff it back in)This is a good narrative, has decent suspense, creeptastic, and a little reminiscent of Patricia Cornwell. I enjoyed how Alaina included real true crime cases and her medical knowledge in the story. After all, truth is stranger than fiction. The characters are believable, although I did have trouble remembering the name of Wren's husband, because Leroux (is that a nod to Gaston Leroux?) has the first name of John, and that's Alaina's husband's name, and, well... I still had a fever yesterday. So, please forgive me on that one.I do have two problems with the book, and they are minor, and probably just particular to me, so take them with a grain of salt. I had a real problem with the verb tense of the book. Present tense is very difficult to write well, and I felt it was awkward at times. When it slipped into past tense for past scenes, I understood why, but it still bugged me. It's not a comfortable reading tense, and perhaps that was intentional, to keep the reader uncomfortable, on edge, which adds to the suspense. So... if that's the case/intent, then fantastic job!My only other problem with the book is that it went too fast. I wanted more depth, longer scenes, more character development. I think I would have cared more about the main character and understood her husband's concern if there was more background for them. We got plenty of it in the butcher's story. But I felt that the Wren was a little underdeveloped. I wanted more of her world, her relationships with Leroux and Will, why they trust each other, more police background on past cases with the butcher, and the time gap between his past crimes and current ones. Why does a serial killer go on hiatus? Why did it take seven years? Those are things I felt were missing. I wanted more... richness of detail, emotional impact, reasons to care more about these people.I am no professional critic, and this is just my opinion. If Alaina writes a sequel, I'm going to order it immediately and wait impatiently again, because I want to see where this goes. Again, I enjoyed it, but it was over too quickly! I have read a ton of true crime books, and more novels than you could use to build a house; in fact, I'm a high school English teacher with dreams of retirement in a few years, so I hope that provides you with some of my own context for what I have said. I know how difficult it is to write a book, and I give Alaina a huge, elaborate high-five that involves multiple steps for her accomplishment. Keep it up, girl!

Fantastic read!!!! Twists and turns all day!!!! Quick read but still good character development. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next!

"The Butcher and the Wren" presents an ambitious narrative that attempts to weave together complex themes and characters, though it may not fully resonate with all readers.One of the notable aspects of the book is its bold approach to storytelling. The narrative structure, while unconventional, offers a unique perspective on themes of identity and redemption. The author's experimental style challenges traditional storytelling norms, inviting readers to interpret and engage with the story in a more introspective manner.The book introduces intriguing characters and explores their journeys through intricate plotlines. While some may find the plot transitions abrupt, others may appreciate the puzzle-like nature of piecing together the interconnected stories and characters.In terms of writing style, the prose is descriptive and richly detailed, creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding events. The atmospheric descriptions effectively set the tone and mood of each scene, adding depth to the narrative experience.However, where the book may falter for some readers is in its pacing and resolution. The complex narrative structure occasionally slows the pace, requiring patience as the story unfolds. Additionally, while the themes of identity and redemption are explored, some may find the conclusions to these themes open-ended or ambiguous.Overall, "The Butcher and the Wren" is a thought-provoking read that challenges readers to think beyond conventional storytelling. Its ambitious narrative and descriptive prose create a rich tapestry of interconnected stories and characters, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoy literary exploration and nuanced themes.

If you’re a fan of the Morbid Podcast, you must give this book a read. The story line is well written, which left me coming back for more. I liked this book so much that I preordered book two. Unfortunately, book two won’t be available until September 2024.

This Butcher and the Wren is incredibly written and exquisitely detailed. With the ultimate plot twist and the right amount of disgusting information you NEED to send a shiver down your spine. Alaina, you have outdone yourself. I am very much looking forward to The Butcher Game.

Very good book no boring moments. The ending could have been a bit better but it was still a good read!

Although I do enjoy reading, I often struggle to find a book that keeps me entertained from start to finish. I find myself forcing to read through the slow bits in hope it’ll pick up again. However the second I started reading this book I was completely absorbed into it, and couldn’t put it down. An incredible read, that will keep you on your toes. I listen to Alaina on the morbid podcast, and I love how she’s incorporated parts of research for true crime cases on the podcast into her book. Her medical and true crime knowledge make this book extremely realistic and incredibly easy to envision in your head. 10/10 would recommend I can’t wait to get my hand on her next book!

Escritura florida, recargada, llena de metáforas que no funcionan. El personaje principal es insípido, a pesar de las densas descripciones de los cadáveres y sus olores (la autora trabaja en una morgue). Se detiene mucho en lo que cree que provocará asco o sobresalto. Todos los personajes son planos, no existen sino como un pequeño montón de palabras.Lástima que no se pueden devolver los libros de Kindle.

O livro é ótimo.

Foi muito rapido e chegou perfeito

As a big fan of Alaina and Ash’s podcast morbid I was interested in her work outside the podcast and in her writing.. having read a couple of books written by autopsy technicians and disappointed and some negative reviews on Alaina’s writing I held off a little while but gave into temptation with the announcement of the second installation of the Dr Wren series…Alaina’s writing is phenomenal and her wit, charm and second to none storytelling ability really shine’s through in this book.I swallowed this book in record time unable to put it down and the references to Alaina’s work and vast knowledge of serial killers make this a truly fascinating read.If you’re doubting the purchase don’t. I hummed and hawed but this is a truly captivating thriller and my favourite read of the year so far… looking forward to the next release