Review: He’s So Possessed with Me by Corey Liu
As someone who thrives on the edge of horror and humor, Corey Liu’s He’s So Possessed with Me immediately grabbed my attention with its catchy title and intriguing premise. I found myself wondering: can a campy teen horror story also navigate the complexities of real-life struggles? Spoiler alert: it absolutely can. This delightful blend of supernatural shenanigans and deep emotional resonance turned out to be a truly rewarding read.
At the heart of the story is Colin, a queer Asian teenager on the cusp of graduation, facing the chaos of high school life. Once his best friend Ren has a strange encounter in the woods, things become…well, a little demonic. Liu skillfully combines elements of classic horror with real-world challenges like bullying and homophobia, creating an engaging narrative that speaks to the often messy experience of adolescence. Colin’s feelings of self-doubt and his anxious need to help Ren are portrayed with such authenticity that it was impossible not to root for him.
One of the things I absolutely adored about this story is how Liu finds an uneasy balance between laughter and genuine fear. The campy elements never undermine the stakes; instead, they heighten them. The ghostly figures lurking in the fog and the slow creep of possession serve as clever metaphors for toxic relationships, and the whole thing is packaged in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Colin’s journey toward self-acceptance and emotional independence resonates deeply, especially for those of us who’ve felt the weight of expectations—both from others and ourselves.
The pacing is sharp and exhilarating, moving quickly enough to keep you hooked but with enough emotional depth that you feel the shifts in Colin’s character. I did find myself wanting a little more from some of the side characters, as they sometimes felt like they deserved richer backstories. But the energy of the plot kept me flying through the pages, and the comedic moments broke the tension just enough to breathe without losing the pace.
What really struck me was the representation of queer joy throughout the narrative. Colin draws strength from pop culture references that many readers will recognize (hello, campy horror film tropes), and his unusual band of friends—including a delightfully grumpy medium—add layers of humor and heart to the story. Moments of levity shine even in the darkest scenes, leaving the reader with a sense of belonging and a reminder that community can really save you.
The supernatural elements, including a clever nod to faerie folklore, twist the story in unexpected directions. Readers intrigued by those haunting themes will find themselves unraveling mysteries tied to Ren’s transformation while grappling with Colin’s struggles to maintain his identity amidst chaos. Liu’s narrative techniques make these connections seamless, often leaving you gasping for breath—not just from fear, but from the emotional truths laid bare.
In conclusion, He’s So Possessed with Me is perfect for anyone looking for a unique blend of queer horror and heartfelt coming-of-age storytelling. Those who enjoy their tales with a good dose of sincerity and sprinkle of humor will find this gem fulfilling. As I turned the last page, I was left reflecting on how important it is to find your own voice while navigating the complexities of growing up. This book is certainly going to linger with me for quite a while—if only because I’m hoping to summon a delightful demon or two!
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