River of Teeth

By Sarah Gailey

So… this was another interesting read. But I love the strange and unusual.

First of all, did you know there was a time in the U.S. when Congress was genuinely concerned about a beef shortage and how they would combat it? In the early 20th century, they considered the craziest idea: let’s put hippos in the swamps of Louisiana and use them to replace the cattle. Yeah, that sounds like a great idea! Well, lucky for us that idea died on the congressional floor. So no hippos. Like you might think, hmm, that might be cool; these animals have zero issue eating you whole.

The characters in this novella are an eclectic group of hoppers who are all on board for a “caper”. Each member of this ragtag group of roughians is in it for the money, but they also have their own agendas. Houndstooth, the leader of what he calls an operation, is not only in it for the cash, but to seek revenge for his lost ranch. Hero has become bored and despondent with their retirement. Then there is the robust and larger-than-life Archie, who is considered the best con woman of them all. She is deeply loyal to Houndstooth and will destroy anyone who threatens her friend. But she is also keeping track of how many times she has to save Houndstooth’s bacon. She is an amazing character and has become one of my favorite literary badass ladies.

It is a quick read. LGBTQ+ characters, the most amazing plus-sized lady who will kill a bitch ever, a badass assassin, the Wild West, and hippos. Need I say more? READ THIS BOOK NOW.