Book Review: The Country Under Heaven by D.M. Horne
When I stumbled upon The Country Under Heaven while browsing Edelweiss, I felt an irresistible pull. There’s something incredibly alluring about the convergence of genres, especially when those genres are as seemingly disparate as classic Westerns and cosmic horror. D.M. Horne’s newest work captivated me from the start, and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on this thought-provoking and surreal journey through the 1880s American West.
At its core, The Country Under Heaven follows Ovid, a Union veteran still wrestling with his demons after the Civil War. Horne crafts a narrative steeped in vignettes, making Ovid’s experiences feel intimate and immediate. Each chapter transports us alongside him, as he rides on his trusty horse Jack into towns where he confronts not just bandits and cattle drives, but also terrifying supernatural entities, including "the Craither," a haunting presence that appears after a life-altering explosion during the Battle of Antietam. Horne skillfully weaves existential contemplation throughout the action, inviting us to ponder Ovid’s connection to other worlds and the ramifications of a war that left scars beyond the physical.
The writing style resonates with classic Western sensibilities—plain-spoken, sparse language that mirrors the expansive landscapes Ovid traverses. Horne’s pacing is reminiscent of legends like Louis L’Amour, yet it’s peppered with supernatural urgency. Each vignette showcases not just a physical journey but also an emotional one as Ovid battles his inner turmoils alongside external threats. The chapter interludes offer moments of reflection that enrich our understanding of Ovid as a character; these contemplative pauses allow us to digest the weight of his experiences.
What struck me most were Ovid’s ruminations on the horrors of war and their enduring impact on humanity. This thematic thread connects the monsters he encounters to the very real devastation of the Civil War. Horne poses a striking notion: the cracks in our world, the portals to unknown horrors, may be a consequence of humanity’s own conflicts and failings. This reflective quality enriched my reading experience—making me not just a passive observer but a participant in Ovid’s quest for peace, both for himself and for the world around him.
While the pacing echoes the classic Western tradition, the underlying cosmic dread elevates The Country Under Heaven into a realm where horrors dwell not just in the wild landscapes but in the hearts of men. I found similarities to works like Lovecraft Country, where the specter of history intertwines with supernatural elements, demanding an examination of our present through the lens of the past.
This unique blend of genres makes Horne’s novel essential reading for fans of weird Westerns and cosmic horror. If you appreciate narratives that go beyond simple thrills to explore profound themes of trauma and connection, you will find The Country Under Heaven an enriching experience.
In a world that often feels fragmented, Ovid’s journey serves as a reminder of both the beauty and the horror of our reality. I finished this novel with a renewed appreciation for stories that can chill, amaze, and make us ponder our place amid the chaos. For anyone brave enough to traverse these haunted landscapes with Ovid, the rewards are more than worth it. Come for the monsters, stay for the haunting reflections—they linger long after the final page is turned.
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