YOUR BOYFRIEND NEEDS AN EXORCIST

An evil spirit accidentally possesses the body of her crush’s boyfriend.

Ever since 15-year-old Schuyler Thompson died in a car accident, she’s existed as a ghost, confined to the street on which she lived and died, sometimes overcome with bloodlust that results in violent outbursts. Most of her time, though, is spent pining after Wren Castillo, a current occupant of Schuyler's former home, and wondering how someone so beautiful and amazing could have such an awful boyfriend. Enzo Altamura sometimes reminds Schuyler of her own toxic ex-boyfriend whom she’d rather not think about at all. When, in a fit of anger, she unintentionally inhabits Enzo’s body, Schuyler is given a second chance at life and love. But possession comes with alarming side effects, and when another evil spirit appears in the community, everyone Schuyler cares about ends up in danger. Body horror and humor are deftly intermingled in this fast-paced story that thoughtfully confronts trauma and guilt. Pucella Winans uses body possession as a vehicle to explore gender identity as Schuyler comes to terms with genderfluidity. The supportive, familial relationship Schuyler has with Enzo’s brother is stronger and more memorable than the romance; Wren feels underdeveloped, but Schuyler’s sharp yet affable first-person narration shines throughout. Certain elements of the ending feel too easy, but Schuyler’s growth is well-earned. Most main characters are white, other than Wren, who has brown skin.

Meaningful topics are embedded in a gory, entertaining tale.