Meat

By: Joseph D'Lacey

Narrated by: Chris Coxon

Eleven years after its original publication, this is the third edition of D’Lacey’s cult hit, containing an introduction by Michael Wilson and a brand-new foreword by the author.

In Abyrne, a strange town surrounded by a wasteland, the eating of meat is a sacred obligation. The town’s strict laws are brutally enforced by a ruthless Baron and a merciless Bishop.

Adored by the townsfolk is Richard Shanti, Abyrne’s famous bolt-gunner - the most efficient slaughterhouse worker in living memory. In private, however, Shanti is a gentle man; a husband, and father to twin girls. The growing guilt about his murderous job weighs him down. Beguiled by a rebellious heretic, Shanti uncovers the harrowing truth behind Abyrne’s history. When the town’s corporate and religious factions come into conflict, he must choose a side. By fighting for what he knows is right, Shanti will risk everything and everyone he loves. Meanwhile, the townsfolk are hungry. The townsfolk must be fed....

©2019 Joseph D'Lacey (P)2019 W. F. Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

“Joseph D’Lacey rocks!” (Stephen King)

“Without reservation, MEAT is one of the most literate, astonishing, and intriguing books I’ve read in years.” (David Niall Wilson)

awesome book! couldnt stop listening!

It is a grotesque book but very well written. I might be a vegetarian now.

Definitely worth reading

I really enjoyed the story. The narrator took me a bit to get used to but once I did I really appreciated his tonal uses and character choices. You should read this book.

I got what I expected and say “Thank You”

The books title, along with a few reviews I read let me know what to expect. I wasn’t disappointed. The writing was visual enough to make this a part horror story, part intrigue. The books premise was disturbing but again, I started it knowing that.

Really really good

Fantastic story with twists and the unexpected. Definitely check TWs, but this book isn’t just for shock value - it holds great depth and social commentary. Wish it had been longer, definitely hoping for a sequel. Only complaint- the narrator wasn’t the best. Would really benefit from being narrated by a full cast.

I believe it could happen

A very disturbing and well written story about a community surviving in a post apocalyptic world. At first I wasn't sure what the source of protein was, due to the initial description. It quickly became clear. I want to say that there's no way that humanity would allow this to happen but let's be honest, humans are rarely humane.
An engrossing read and fantastic narration.

Horrible

I thought this was an excellent story steeped in true horror. Although I had hoped for a different direction in the end and a deeper exploaration of a few of the stories elements, I was suprised at how much I Iiked this awful tale. Decently well narrated too.

Narration is the worst

I think I just came into this book with a different expectation of its premise, but it was alright. The story is unique but unnecessary. The narrator, however, has no business reading books. He does not enunciate words but rather speaks in a "street, casual" way, not pronouncing every letter in words. He made an alright book, worse.

Incredible writing for a horrifying concept

Listening to this novel was like watching a movie in my head. Joseph D’Lacey’s masterful storytelling had me immersed, horrified and enthralled.
This was my first D’Lacey novel, and I’m excited to see what else he has to offer!

The theme

What a clever way to address the horrors of industrial meat harvesting by relating it to a post apocalyptic form of cannibalism tied up in marketing and religion that leaves it consumers as clueless as today’s consumers are about where their own meat comes from. A thought provoking point of view that anyone can appreciate. A must read!!!!

Choices

This one had a little bit of everything: Dystopia, politics, religion, obligation, social norms and conformity VS. individualism and moral sense. A hard read at times, but a good read regardless. Put me off meat for a while, though.