Sure, you’ve read about vampires, witches, demons, serial killers, and all other manner of horror; but have you read a book about a sentient, person-consuming, giant orchid? Bet you haven’t! Lately, I’ve noticed an increasing trend toward eco-horror, and it struck me that I couldn’t point to any book I’ve read that I could describe that way. Of course, this was something I had to remedy!
Eat the Ones You Love is a slow burn tale full of creeping dread, (and vines!) set in a dying mall in the suburbs of Dublin, Ireland. While it follows the budding relationship between Shell and Neve (yay, queer romance!) it’s told from the POV of said sentient orchid. This unique perspective allows readers to feel like they are observing the scene from the outside, retaining mystery behind the actions and motivations of many of the characters. I’m in two minds about this for a few reasons.
It’s obvious from the beginning that we can’t wholly trust this narrator. Obviously, a flesh-hungry plant isn’t going to be the most objective party to the tale, which leads the reader to question everything. This is fun and maintains some secrecy as to the nature of the characters’ true feelings. In my opinion, however, Griffin could have done more with this device. For example, using the plant as the narrator allows each character to receive more representation in terms of character importance throughout the story. Shell is obviously the main character, but her actions and thoughts are recorded in the same way as characters who might be considered minor in a traditional story. I would have liked to have more robust characters with full stories and personalities, and I didn’t feel I had that here.
This is particularly a problem with the character ‘Neve’ who has been caring for the plant since both she and it were young. One of the questions I have to assume readers have on the tips of their tongues while reading has got to be, “But why is she doing this if she knows what this plant is all about?” I don’t feel like we ever got an answer to that question. I’m sure the orchid, Baby, is meant to symbolize how stagnancy and lack of ambition can lead a person down a dangerous road, so in that regard this is cool. But I still want to know about the damn plant!
This book includes themes of personal growth, clinging to toxic figures and environments, and the inability to leave one’s hometown and discover themselves. It poses important questions on those topics. Some of Griffin’s most beautiful language is used to describe these ideas. While I enjoyed the flirtatious relationships of all the characters, they began to feel a little tired by the conclusion. No spoilers here so I’ll just say there’s little payoff if you’re really rooting for love to win. The ending is interesting and not altogether clean. Sometimes I hate that, but this time it feels right. We love a messy queen!
Overall, this wasn’t the most exciting horror book I’ve ever read, though I did enjoy it. I’d recommend it to others who enjoy a slow burn, and it definitely won’t be my last eco-horror experience. I’m curious to try more!
⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
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