Nettleblack

In 1893, Henry Nettleblack disguises herself and enlists with a mysterious organization to investigate a string of crimes in a small rural town. She soon realizes that she is living in a place with surprisingly big problems and that the new people in her life offer her a way out and a way forward. Nettleblack is a subversive and playful ride through the perils and joys of finding one's place in the world, challenging myths about queerness, and exploring the practicalities of articulating queer perspectives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 500 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cipher Press

1893. Henry Nettleblack is in a rush to escape her impending marriage to her older sister, but her departure from her comfortable and affluent life is not as straightforward as she had anticipated. Trapped in an ambush, robbed, and then rescued by a enigmatic organization that functions as both a detective agency and a neighborhood watch, Henry finds herself in a desperate situation. To conceal her identity, she disguises herself and joins this organization. Sent on a mission to investigate a series of crimes, Henry quickly realizes that she is living in a small rural town that harbors surprising and significant problems. As the net tightens around her, and menacing forces threaten to expose her as the missing Nettleblack sister, the new people in her life appear to offer her a way out and a path forward. However, is the world she has lost truly a place where she can rediscover herself?

Nettleblack is a captivating and subversive tale that unfolds through journal entries and letters. It delves into the perils and joys of finding one's place in the world, challenging prevailing myths about queerness, particularly transness, as a contemporary phenomenon. At the same time, it explores the practical challenges of articulating queer perspectives when one is struggling to find the right words.

Through her journey, Henry encounters a diverse range of characters who each contribute to her growth and understanding of herself. She forms connections with individuals who challenge her preconceptions and help her see the world in new and different ways. These relationships provide her with a sense of belonging and support, as she navigates the complexities of her identity and the challenges of her circumstances.

One of the central themes of Nettleblack is the importance of community and the power of collective action. The organization that Henry joins is a testament to the strength of unity and the ability of individuals to make a difference when they come together. Henry's involvement in this community not only provides her with a sense of purpose but also allows her to contribute to the betterment of her community.

Another theme that emerges in Nettleblack is the exploration of gender and identity. Henry's journey of self-discovery is filled with challenges and complexities, as she grapples with her gender identity and the expectations that society has placed upon her. Through her interactions with others, Henry begins to question the binary nature of gender and the societal norms that perpetuate it.

Nettleblack is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh perspective on the experiences of queer individuals in a historical context. It challenges stereotypes and assumptions and provides a glimpse into the lives of those who have been marginalized and misunderstood. Through its engaging narrative and compelling characters, Nettleblack encourages readers to think critically about the world around them and to advocate for inclusivity and equality.

In conclusion, Nettleblack is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of gender, identity, and community. It is a novel that offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the experiences of queer individuals in a historical context, challenging stereotypes and assumptions and providing a glimpse into the lives of those who have been marginalized and misunderstood. Through its engaging narrative and compelling characters, Nettleblack encourages readers to think critically about the world around them and to advocate for inclusivity and equality.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838390068