This is a fascinating, fragmented little novella that explores domination and submission in both the domestic and religious spheres, as well as the relationships between women who are taught to seek male -- or indeed, divine -- approval above all else. Erotic, abstract, and thought-provoking, the vignettes are gritty, gorgeous, and embodied, without feeling gratuitous or purely for shock value. Very contemporary feeling, which is even more impressive considering that this was originally published in the 1990s in Mexico -- this is 100% worth the read! An absolute trailblazer. Take this as your sign also to check out Charco Press, and the other Latin American novels they are championing at the moment -- absolute gold dust.

Apparitions is a short, fragmented novel that blends eroticism, religion, art, and bodily experience into something that is at times both shocking and profoundly affecting. Told through brief vignettes that move between a woman entangled with her lover and observed by her daughter, and two nuns in pursuit of spiritual ecstasy, the book explores desire, pain, and devotion from a distinctly female perspective. Apparitions is at times both ambiguous and challenging, but also an interesting and courageous commentary on desire, faith, and the pressures placed on women’s bodies in society. It’s graphic and intentionally provocative, often to the point of being uncomfortable, and at times I found it confusing and even a little repetitive. However, I found this book to be a strange yet undeniably thought-provoking read, and one I would still encourage others to pick up and experience for themselves to see how it resonates. *Thank you to the publisher for sending me an early copy in exchange for an honest review*

A shocking novel, split into fragmented narratives. It’s intense, graphically erotic, and a disturbing blend of eroticism, art, Christian mysticism, intimacy and connection, and the use of the female body. At times, it is difficult to read due to its excessively graphic nature, and I do feel — even though I assume that it is the intent to be erotic in nature — it takes away plot, complexity, and the layers you’d expect from a novel attempting to take on these heavy topics. Originally published in the 1990s in Mexico, I can understand the importance of challenging ideas around feminism, the female body, sex and religion; Margo Glantz is, no doubt, a skilled, brave, and creative writer. If you enjoy abstract works and can view this as a piece of art with the intent to shock and provoke, then this is a great piece of work for you. It simply did not cater to me. Nevertheless, it is an interesting commentary on ecstasy, mythicism, and eroticism from a female perspective. 3.5/5 Stars! (Thank you, Charco Press, for sending me a copy!)