A review by natashaleighton_
Old Wounds by Logan-Ashley Kisner

dark emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Old Wounds by Logan-Ashley Kisner Review


As emotionally thought-provoking as it was spine-chilling! Logan Ashley Kisner’s YA Horror debut was a terrifying, rollercoaster of a read that deftly explores gender and trans identity (and highlighting how historically underrepresented the trans and queer community have been in the genre.) 

Readers looking for a heartfelt and unflinchingly honest depiction of the trans experience; of resilience, empowerment and a heartfelt journey towards healing — then you’ll definitely want to check this out. 

Kisner’s skillful prose was really good! His atmospheric descriptions were brimming with an eerie, skin crawling undertone (encapsulated in the creepy, Midsommar/The Wicker Man-esque side characters) that I felt really upped the sense of danger and intensity of the plot —and made for an unforgettable, edge of your seat reading experience.

You know that mounting sense of dread you feel at the start of a Horror movie, right before the bad stuff starts? Well, if you love this genre, then you should be pleased to know you’ll find plenty of that here. 

From the opening scenes, which document the complex bonds and family dynamics that both Erin and Max face, to their differing experiences as trans teens in (a largely unaccepting) small US town — the unease lies soo heavy in the air you’ll be hard pressed not to binge read in its entirety. 

But, what I found most impressive was the depth we explore in our POV characters, Erin and Max (two flawed but compelling teens) and the sense of hope that’s woven through the heart of their story. 

I don’t think my words can really do this book justice, so I’ll just say if you enjoy Horror Thrillers and have been eager to see more diverse perspectives, then you’ll probably gonna enjoy this one. 

However, it does explore some pretty deep subject material (and references real life murders/suicides of trans people) so I do advise checking the CW/TWs beforehand. 

Also, a huge thank you to Ayesha at Usborne for the proof. 
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