The Devil Knows
The metaphysics and primal structures of nature seem like forgotten things in contemporary literature. The groundwork laid by Faulkner and London, Jeffers and Conrad has been trodden over by amateur intimates, middling authors who believe all matter begins and ends in the human brain— that the land itself is simply a setting, an inanimate, teleological space made for the use of mankind alone. Janet Holt-Johnstone, however, is of another class, a member of a venerable tradition of writers in touch with the darker powers at play in the world— those of nature and history.
The Devil Knows delves deep into colonialism, the western, mercenary impulse, and the rugged foundations of civilization, intertwining the wilderness— as a character itself— and a diverse cast— which eschew the genre’s common stereotypy— into a quick paced narrative as thrilling as any adventure tale and as nuanced as anything by the Transcendentalists.
The novel resides firmly in the 19th century, capturing the flavors and colors of the time, but allows for contemporary critiques and a modern perspective on an essential pocket of history. Ms. Holt-Johnstone’s dogged research, here, is clearly evident; she draws from the corners of western memory, dredging up the forgotten and hidden forms that ripple beneath the surface of our culture.
With its otherworldly presentation of nature, haunting characters, and riveting narrative, The Devil Knows delivers a lightning bolt of much needed vivacity and depth to the current literary scene. For those willing to explore the darker side of history— and the darker side of mankind— this is the book for you.—Charles Asher