Australian author A. Rushby is set to captivate fans of gothic horror with her upcoming novel ‘Slashed Beauties’. The highly-anticipated book, described as a “gothic feminist body horror”, is scheduled to be released this autumn by Berkley. The plot unfolds across two timelines, weaving a tale of mystery, curses, and the macabre.
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In present-day Seoul, we are introduced to Alys, an antiques dealer tasked with overseeing a collection of anatomical Venuses. These lifelike wax figures, crafted in the 18th century to resemble real-life sex workers, are said to be cursed – targeting men who have wronged them. Alys finds herself entangled in a web of dark forces, leading her on a journey to England to rid herself of the sinister connection.
Meanwhile, in 1700s London, the narrative shifts to two young women named Eleanor and Emily, who befriend Elizabeth, a coveted courtesan hiding her own secrets. As the story unfolds, the intricate lives of these characters become intertwined, blurring the lines between past and present. The convergence of these timelines sets the stage for a gripping and suspenseful narrative.
As Alys delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the wax figures, she realises that the only way to break free from the malevolent forces at play is to destroy them, despite the potentially dire consequences she may face. The intricate plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through a world where magic and reality collide.
Although ‘Slashed Beauties’ is aimed at adult audiences, A. Rushby is no stranger to crafting compelling stories across various genres. Under the pseudonym Allison Rushby, the author has penned several books for young readers, including the popular Wish Sisters and Penny Dreadful series. Additionally, Rushby has explored the realm of young adult fiction with novels such as ‘The Stand In’ and ‘The Fifth Room’ under the name A.J. Rushby.
In a candid interview with WordMothers, Rushby shared insights into her creative process and the delicate balance of artistic vision with commercial appeal. Navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the publishing industry, she emphasised the importance of staying true to one’s storytelling while adapting to market trends. This dynamic approach has allowed Rushby to continue creating engaging narratives that resonate with readers across diverse genres.
‘Slashed Beauties’ is scheduled for release on September 23 and is currently available for pre-order across various platforms. As readers eagerly await the arrival of this chilling tale, A. Rushby’s unique storytelling style promises a haunting and immersive reading experience. Stay tuned for the spine-tingling release of ‘Slashed Beauties’, where horror meets history in a riveting blend of suspense and intrigue.