Public Service Announcement: THIS IS THE BEST BOOK I’VE READ THIS YEAR (so far).
I know. I know, an aggressive statement considering it's only April. But My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix is the first book this year that really got me excited. You've all experienced that kind of book, the one you can’t put down because everything is just jiving: the plot, the setting, the characters, the author’s style, and voice. For me, this was that book. It was fun, scary, and heartwarming. It’s a story of friendship that refuses to die. I had a blast reading this and found myself not wanting to turn that last page.
Hendrix is one hell of a writer. At many points, I found myself smiling dumbly as I experienced the love between characters Gretchen and Abby. Other times, my heart was breaking for them. Oh! And holy 80’s! Since the story takes place during that decade, there is reference upon reference of 80’s pop culture which I thought was a lot of fun. For me, the time period made the story adding an element of nostalgia and uniqueness that may not have been achieved in a modern-day setting.
What’s the plot?
Abby and Gretchen have been best friends since fifth grade, but when they arrive at high school, things change. After a night of beers and skinny dipping, Gretchen begins to act different. She’s moody. She’s irritable and her health quickly degenerates. After a series of unexplainable and strange events, Abby realizes there is a demon living inside her friend. Now, it’s up to Abby to save Gretchen. But is their friendship strong enough to beat the devil?
"By the power of Phil Collins, I rebuke you!"
-Grady Hendrix, My Best Friend's Exorcism
Scary or Nay?
Despite the E.T. references and Madonna lyrics, this is still a supernatural horror story. So be prepared for a fair amount of skin-crawling demonic possession scenes. In my opinion, the horror was well balanced and left me wanting more, more, more.
Whatcha Drinkin'?
Because this novel is a perfect combination of 80’s nostalgia and horror (come on, just look at that cover), I wanted to pair it with a fun cocktail. This raspberry mimosa is not only delicious but a beautiful, bright pink that represents this novel’s zany plot. The best thing about this drink: it takes literally seconds to prepare. Scope some sorbet. Pour some champagne. Create a gorgeous gasp-worthy drink fit for Easter brunch.
Raspberry Sorbet Mimosas
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Yield: 6/7 servings per bottle of champagne
What You Need:
- 1 bottle champagne or sparkling white wine
- 1 pint raspberry sorbet
- Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)
What You Do:
1. Add 1 to 2 tbs of raspberry sorbet to a champagne flute, wine glass or martini glass.
2. Fill with champagne.
3. Garnish with fresh raspberries if desired. Serve immediately!