The Haunted Hillbilly: A Novel (Soft Skull ShortLit)

Derek McCormack's writing fills me with a joy that is usually only triggered by sex, sweeping landscapes, Caravaggio, really good coffee. His style is so terse and tight it takes some getting used to - we don't expect writers to be so economical with their words. this book made me wish it was ten times longer.

Nudie, the costume designer for a mysterious carnival, takes a shine to up-and-coming countrysinger Hank. Hank's just been asked to appear at the Grand Ole Opry, and Nudie convinces Hank to allow him to design his clothes. Soon, it becomes clear that Nudie's intentions are more wicked and devious than what Hank is prepared for. With minimal and precise words, author Derek McCormack creates a creepy underworld of country... Read Full Review

The Haunted Hillbilly combines elements of country music history, fantasy, horror, and most of all, incredibly funny looks at the world of Hank Williams and his contemporaries. Nudie is a gay vampire with a clothing store that caters to people like Hank Williams. He starts a trend toward flashy clothing, rhinestones and all, among other stars, such as Ernest Tubb. Nudie is the maker of Hank as a star and also his downfall... Read Full Review

Derek McCormack's short-short novel, THE HAUNTED HILLBILLY, is the definition of edgy queer lit. McCormack has already proved his capabilities as one of the best upcoming writers with his debut, GRAB BAG, and THE HAUNTED HILLBILLY does not dissapoint. Set in the carnivale atmosphere of rural Canada, Nudie is a vampiric tailor with an unhealthy sexual appetite for the simple minded struggling folk singers. While the characters... Read Full Review

An interesting little story about vampires that is remarkable for its style. Something in how McCormack writes creates an overwhelming sense of being on a bad bender - one where you know things are out of control and going wrong, but in which you don't have your wits about you enough to do anything about it. You have no choice but to lurch along for the ride, not seeing enough to completely understand what's happening to... Read Full Review