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shawna_reads 's review for:

Unbury Carol by Josh Malerman
4.5
dark mysterious slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

"You have no idea how dark it is, living in someone else's shadow."

Carol Evers has a dark secret - she has died many times, but what looks like death is a coma lasting for days. Only two people know of her condition, her husband, Dwight, and her ex-boyfriend, James Moxie. As she falls into another coma, Dwight plans a funeral to get to her fortune. As Moxie travels to save her from an early grave, Carol is aware and terrified.

I really enjoyed this book! I like westerns as long as there's some kind of horror or supernatural element to it, and this one certainly delivered. The premise was unique and terrifying, creating a sense of foreboding and claustrophobia. A story of life and death, love and loss, intertwined with magic and subtle horror. It definitely held my interest throughout the story.

I wish there were more chapters from Carol's POV as she was awake in her coma, aware of her husband conspiring against her. However, the characters were well-developed and I enjoyed following along with Dwight's mischievous plans, the sheriff's investigation, her ex-boyfriend's journey to Harrows, and Smoke, a dirty outlaw hired to get rid of Moxie. 

It's a bit of a slow burn, but worth it. If you're looking for a horror mixed with thriller, suspense, and western vibes, then look no further!