The Bone Orchard

The Bone Orchard missed the mark and left much to be desired. Overall the story has a rather sci-fi-noir-gothic feel with moments reminiscent of a fusion between The Matrix and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. The premise of a King’s mistress being given a deathbed task to uncover his murderer, usurp the line of succession, and insight a rebellion to appoint a new ruler sets the stage for an intriguing mystery. However, the literal writing style falls short in its ability to create an equally captivating world for such a mystery to unfold. There was a noticeable lack of nuance, whimsy, and allure which seemed odd given the story’s epicenter is an infamous gentleman’s club that caters to the unearthly desires and taboo proclivities of the elite.

The theme of absolute control, both physical and mental, throughout the entire story lends itself to an unsavory reading experience. Those portraying themselves to be protectors are simply captors in disguise, enslaving others for their own selfish needs. When individuals break free of mental confines it should be a moment of triumph but ends up being a rather depressing conclusion to a woeful story of torment and trauma.