This is my first Chuck Tingle, and I'm unsure whether or not I'm sad that I skipped right to his first traditionally-published, non-erotic book instead of cutting my teeth on his usual fare over my years of enjoying the titles (if you can hear Space Raptor Butt Invasion and not smile, I'm sorry that you have no joy or sense of whimsy).

I was eager to read Camp Damascus because I find Chuck's online presence fun and because I adore queer horror. I knew going in that it dealt with conversion therapy, but there is much going on that I didn't expect, particularly the supernatural elements of the plot.

But I was also surprised by how YA Camp Damascus feels. It might be marketed as an adult book, but it has so much YA crossover appeal that I would be tempted to say that its marketing is a mistake... At least, until I remember how much scrutiny children's and teens' colletions are under in public libraries, which makes me think it might be better to have this in the adult collection where it's less likely to come under fire.

Because I'm not as much of a YA reader anymore, I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected to. However, if I had gotten to read this as a highschooler, I think it would have blown me away and felt deeply affirming. So I hope that Camp Damascus finds the readers who need it.