The Butcher by Laura Kat Young

 The Butcher by Laura Kat Young is one of the most heart wrenching, dark, and phenomenal books I have read in such a long time. 

At the beginning of the book, Lady Mae is awaiting the day when she will inherit her mother’s job as the town Butcher. Her mother, Winona, goes against the law and chooses not to butcher a young boy. The Deputies, who uphold the law and lead the town, come to Winona and Lady Mae’s home, to confront Winona and ask why she chose to disobey the law. A struggle ensues and Winona is killed in front of Lady Mae.

Years pass by, Lady Mae is now the town's Butcher. A childhood friend has returned to their town and back into Lady Mae’s life. The long ago feelings for one another never left. The rest of the story follows along the choices the two make. In the end, a heartbreaking decision is made that will alter every person in the town's life. Nothing will ever be the same for Lady Mae and everyone in the town. 

This is truly a magnificent piece of work. I can feel the love and time spent in forming these words to make a special story come to life. 

Thank you so much to #NetGalley and #TitanBooks for sending me this ARC to read and review. 

#TheButcher