Evil Eye: Four Novellas of Love Gone Wrong

BLONDE is a collection of four dark and compelling novellas by Joyce Carol Oates about love gone wrong, including a young fourth wife, a shy teenager, a spoiled frat boy, and a fragile woman. Reviews describe it as chilling, haunting, and sublime, with extraordinary strengths and a depiction of the darkness lurking within the everyday.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Head of Zeus

From the acclaimed author of "Blonde," a mesmerizing collection of four dark and captivating novellas that delve into the complexities of love gone awry. The young fourth wife of a prominent intellectual finds herself deluding herself into believing she is content until the arrival of the first wife disrupts her tranquility. A shy teenager encounters a dazzling kindred spirit, but the initial sparks of young love quickly transform into something darker. A spoiled frat boy embarks on a chilling plan to assassinate his parents, only to be utterly astonished by the overwhelming strength of his mother's love. And a fragile woman, burdened by deep-seated secrets, shares them with her curious lover, unleashing a series of devastating consequences. These stories, though different in their narratives, all revolve around the theme of love, challenging our preconceived notions and revealing the darker shades that lie beneath the surface.

Joyce Carol Oates, a literary icon and master storyteller, has crafted a collection that delves into the depths of human emotions and the intricacies of relationships. Her writing is characterized by its raw intensity, psychological depth, and societal relevance. Critics have hailed her as a writer of extraordinary strengths, with her ability to evoke powerful emotions and create vivid characters that resonate with readers.

In "Blonde," Oates takes us on a journey through the life of a young woman named Norma Jean Baker, who rises from a humble upbringing to become a famous Hollywood actress. The novel explores themes of identity, beauty, and the destructive nature of fame. Through Norma Jean's eyes, we witness the societal pressures and expectations placed upon women, as well as the toll it takes on their mental and emotional well-being.

Oates' novellas in this collection also explore various aspects of love and its complexities. "The Fourth Wife" depicts the tumultuous relationship between a young woman and her husband, who is the fourth wife of a prominent intellectual. The story explores the power dynamics, jealousy, and emotional manipulation that can occur in such relationships. "The Girl in the Park" follows a shy teenager who meets a dazzling kindred spirit, but their connection is fraught with danger and emotional turmoil. The story explores the themes of innocence, vulnerability, and the consequences of making rash decisions. "The Husband's Secret" is a haunting tale of a woman who discovers a dark secret about her husband, leading her to question their entire relationship. The story explores the themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

One of the standout qualities of Oates' writing is her ability to create vivid and evocative settings. Whether it's the glamour of Hollywood or the seedy underbelly of a small town, she brings her characters to life in a way that makes the reader feel as if they are experiencing the story alongside them. Her prose is elegant and precise, with a keen eye for detail that adds depth and richness to her stories.

In conclusion, Joyce Carol Oates' "Blonde" and the collection of novellas that follow are a testament to her talent as a writer. These stories explore the complexities of love, power, and identity, and offer a glimpse into the darker corners of the human psyche. Oates' writing is characterized by its raw intensity, psychological depth, and societal relevance, making her a master storyteller whose work continues to resonate with readers. Whether you are a fan of her previous works or are new to her writing, this collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates fine literature and the power of storytelling.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801102940
Edition number: Reissue