Butcher and Blackbird

By Brynne Weaver

Butcher and Blackbird: A Review and Summary

Overview

Brynne Weaver's "Butcher and Blackbird" plunges readers into a darkly humorous and utterly addictive romance between two morally ambiguous characters. This book isn't for the faint of heart, dealing with themes of violence, morality, and obsession, but it does so with a sharp wit and a captivating love story that defies conventions. It blends elements of dark romance, suspense, and dark comedy, creating a unique reading experience.

Detailed Plot Summary

The Premise

The story revolves around Sloane, a forensic psychologist known as "Blackbird" for her uncanny ability to get inside the minds of criminals, and Rowan, a charming and sociopathic contract killer known as "Butcher." They meet during a therapy group for trauma survivors (a darkly ironic twist), and their instant, dangerous attraction becomes the catalyst for a rollercoaster of events.

Key Plot Points

• Initial Encounter: Sloane and Rowan meet in a therapy session. Despite the inappropriate setting, their chemistry is undeniable and unsettling.
• The Game Begins: Rowan is drawn to Sloane's capacity to understand his mind and sets out to unravel her, while Sloane is captivated by his charming darkness. A twisted game of cat and mouse ensues.
• Shared Morality: They bond over their unconventional views on justice, or lack thereof, blurring the lines between right and wrong. They find they share a similar darkness and a strange comfort in it.
• The Killer's Pact: They decide to help each other with their respective "problems" - Sloane's stalker and Rowan's latest "job." Their relationship takes a turn into a full-fledged partnership.
• Intimacy and Obsession: Their unconventional romance escalates into a deep, consuming passion. Their relationship is marked by possessiveness, and shared thrill and passion.
• Consequences and Moral Ambiguity: As they become more entangled, they grapple with the implications of their choices, both individually and together. The lines between their roles as protagonist and antagonist become increasingly blurred.

Character Analysis

Sloane “Blackbird”

• Profession: Highly intelligent and perceptive forensic psychologist, skilled in analyzing criminal minds.
• Personality: She is jaded, analytical, and possesses a dark sense of humor. She's attracted to the macabre and is no stranger to trauma and darkness.
• Growth: While she starts as someone who attempts to maintain some semblance of morality, she becomes increasingly drawn to the dark side and starts to question her own perspective. She learns to embrace her inner darkness.

Rowan “Butcher”

• Profession: Sociopathic contract killer with a reputation for efficiency and brutality, yet is disarmingly charming.
• Personality: He's calculating, manipulative, and enjoys the thrill of the kill. He is also very possessive and fiercely protective of Sloane.
• Growth: While seemingly set in his ways, Rowan finds himself changing in subtle ways under Sloane’s influence, developing an emotional attachment he previously believed he was incapable of.

Themes

Key Themes

• Dark Romance: The core of the story is the passionate and unconventional relationship between two morally gray individuals.
• Morality and Ethics: The book pushes the boundaries of traditional morality, making the reader question societal norms and the definition of justice.
• Obsession and Control: The relationship between Sloane and Rowan is marked by intense obsession, control, and a struggle for power.
• Trauma and Healing: While unconventional, the book explores the concept of trauma and finding solace in shared experiences.
• The Nature of Evil: The book delves into the psychology of criminal behavior and what makes individuals cross moral boundaries.

Writing Style and Pacing

Style

• First-Person Perspective: The story is told from alternating points of view, allowing readers to intimately experience the thoughts and emotions of both Sloane and Rowan.
• Sharp Wit: Weaver's writing is marked by witty dialogue and dark humor, which keeps the reading experience engaging and entertaining.
• Vivid and Descriptive: While dealing with heavy subjects, the writing remains vivid and descriptive.
• Pacing: The book maintains a brisk pace, keeping readers invested and eager to see what happens next.

Overall Review

Strengths

• Unique Plot: The blend of dark romance, suspense, and humor creates a captivating and original story.
• Compelling Characters: Sloane and Rowan are complex, well-developed characters that defy typical romance tropes.
• Engaging Writing: Weaver’s writing style is witty, dark, and keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.
• Exploration of Dark Themes: The book tackles complex themes in a thought-provoking and entertaining way.

Weaknesses

• Not for All Readers: The dark and often violent content may be off-putting for some readers.
• Moral Ambiguity: The characters' morally questionable choices may be uncomfortable for readers seeking more traditional heroes and heroines.

Final Verdict

"Butcher and Blackbird" is a gripping and unconventional romance that will stay with you long after you finish reading. It's a must-read for fans of dark romance and stories that challenge conventional morality. However, readers should be prepared for violence, morally ambiguous characters, and a love story that is far from traditional.

Buy the book here.