I had no idea what I was getting myself into when opening the pages of Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito and sure enough it was a wild ride. This bold and unapologetic novel gripped me from the very first page with an unsettling tale I couldn’t put down.
Grim Wolds, England: Winifred Notty arrives at Ensor House prepared to play the perfect governess―she’ll dutifully tutor her charges, Drusilla and Andrew, tell them bedtime stories, and only joke about eating children. But long, listless days spent within the estate’s dreary confines come with an intimate knowledge of the perversions and pathetic preoccupations of the Pounds family―Mr. Pounds can’t keep his eyes off Winifred’s chest, and Mrs. Pounds takes a sickly pleasure in punishing Winifred for her husband’s wandering gaze.
Compounded with her disdain for the entitled Pounds children, Winifred finds herself struggling at every turn to stifle the violent compulsions of her past. French tutoring and needlework are one way to pass the time, as is admiring the ugly portraits in the gallery… and creeping across the moonlit lawns…
Virginia Feito crafts an unrelenting exploration of horror that is both internal and external. Victorian Psycho is set in an era known for its rigid social structures and moral codes–which would be horrific on its own. Admist cobblestone streets and fog-laden afternoons, Winifred Notty is an ostensibly typical governess assigned to care for two children, Drusilla and Andrew. However, Feito wastes no time before tearing apart this facade of normalcy. The governess’ descent into madness is swift and jarring; her rage simmering beneath every genteel smile until it eventually erupts in a cacophony of violence.
I will say that this novel is not for all horror fans, as I read through the pages of Victorian Psycho, I was confronted with scenes filled with gore, violence, and a sense of unease that might fascinate some, while repelling others. Feito’s prose is unapologetically vivid—each drop of blood described with macabre precision—and yet there is an undeniable artistry to it all. Feito’s ability to paint such visceral imagery speaks volumes to her ability to craft a chilling novel while not holding back. Once cannot help but find themselves ensnared by her words despite the gruesomeness.
Feito’s approach to this tale seems almost fearless. Her over-the-top scenes mixed with a bit of unexpected humor is a true skill that shines throughout Victorian Psycho. Feito may have made me squirm at moments–while at other times audibly laugh. This is a unique mixture that few can master in the way this author can. I was on edge as the book came to a close with a truly terror-filled conclusion that had me shocked.
Victorian Psycho was wonderfully crafted by Virginia Feito in ways that were completely unexpected. Her daring approach of pushing boundaries without compromise is truly breathtaking. While the book was a bit over-the-top for me at moments, in the end I was glad I was able experience the twisted tale set in front of me and hope that others take a chance on this unforgiving novel.
Victorian Psycho has been optioned by–no surprise here–A24 for a feature film. The studio is known for its films that can be considered fringe by many people and it seems like this novel by Virginia Feito fits right in with the other films on A24 roster. The film will star Margaret Qualley (The Substance) in the lead role alongside Thomasin Mckenzie (Leave No Trace). Zachary Wigon (Sanctuary) will direct a script by author Feito.
Victorian Psycho is available at bookstores everywhere from Liveright. The audiobook, narrated by Anna Burnett, is available at Libro.fm!
