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Slashed Beauties
A gothic feminist body horror in two timelines revolving around three Anatomical Venuses—ultrarealistic wax figures of women—that come to life at night to murder men who have wronged them
Seoul, present day. Antiques dealer Alys’s task is nearly complete. She has at last secured Elizabeth, the third and final Anatomical Venus. Crafted in eighteenth-century London and modeled after real-life sex workers to entice male medical students, these eerie wax figures, known as slashed beauties, carry unsavory lore. Legend has it that the figures are bewitched, and come to life at night to murder men who have wronged them. Now Alys embarks for England, where she knows what she must sever her cursed connection to the Venuses once and for all.
London, 1763. Abandoned and penniless in Covent Garden, wide-eyed Eleanor and another young woman, Emily, are taken under the wing of beautiful and beguiling Elizabeth, one of the city’s most highly desired courtesans among the rich and powerful. But as Eleanor is seduced deeper into a web of money, materialism, and men, it seems that Elizabeth may not be the savior she appears to be.
As the timelines begin to intersect, it becomes clear that the women’s stories are linked in deeper, darker ways than it initially seems. And that the only method for Alys to end the witchcraft that binds her legacy is to gather all three models in one place and destroy them.
However, these haunted, murderous dolls might not be ready to burn.
Seoul, present day. Antiques dealer Alys’s task is nearly complete. She has at last secured Elizabeth, the third and final Anatomical Venus. Crafted in eighteenth-century London and modeled after real-life sex workers to entice male medical students, these eerie wax figures, known as slashed beauties, carry unsavory lore. Legend has it that the figures are bewitched, and come to life at night to murder men who have wronged them. Now Alys embarks for England, where she knows what she must sever her cursed connection to the Venuses once and for all.
London, 1763. Abandoned and penniless in Covent Garden, wide-eyed Eleanor and another young woman, Emily, are taken under the wing of beautiful and beguiling Elizabeth, one of the city’s most highly desired courtesans among the rich and powerful. But as Eleanor is seduced deeper into a web of money, materialism, and men, it seems that Elizabeth may not be the savior she appears to be.
As the timelines begin to intersect, it becomes clear that the women’s stories are linked in deeper, darker ways than it initially seems. And that the only method for Alys to end the witchcraft that binds her legacy is to gather all three models in one place and destroy them.
However, these haunted, murderous dolls might not be ready to burn.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 23, 2025
137 people are currently reading
20934 people want to read
About the author
A. Rushby
2 books91 followersA. Rushby (also writing as Allison Rushby), was gifted the middle name of Jane, for Jane Austen. Wordsmithing was duly destined and, under several pseudonyms, she has published more than thirty books. She has long been a fan of cities steeped in history, wild, overgrown cemeteries, red brick Victorian museums, the curious and the uncanny. She prefers to write with a cup of French Earl Grey tea by her side and a cat curled up in her lap.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 372 reviews
July 19, 2025
I felt a bit lied to by this description. The premise sounded so cool: wax anatomy figures come to life, murdering sketchy men. That’s not really the story I got. This concept is only briefly mentioned in passing throughout most of the book and only an active plot line in the last quarter.
We follow two alternating POV’s and timelines. Each is frustrating in its own way. The past storyline follows one of the Venuses, Eleanor, but you learn everything that happens leading up to the point where she becomes a Venus and her life is mostly a bad time. Not the experience I was hoping for, considering what I had expected. The present day plot line is narrated by Alys, a mysterious figure who is somehow connected to the Venuses and determined to destroy them. I found her story interesting at first but it was so dragged out that by the time I was finally given some answers I didn’t really care anymore.
It takes a long time and quite a bit of backstory in which the ladies are horribly mistreated before you get to the part where they are exacting their revenge. Eleanor did not deserve any of the things that happened to her. However, I found her profoundly frustrating. She was a dope with stars in her eyes and no sense of self-preservation whatsoever. Her love, in my opinion, bordered on obsession. I eventually lost my sympathy for her. She’s the kind of person who, when help is offered to her, slaps it away. Then she complains that no one is saving her. There’s another character in the story who suffers horribly and almost seems to only exist for that purpose and I have to wonder why the book is so mean spirited.
The writing itself is good, so I was torn about the rating. I wanted a horrific and fun tale about creepy wax beauties slaughtering men and instead I got a very sad story about the loss of bodily autonomy. There’s also a particularly heartbreaking moment involving an animal that is brought up repeatedly, as if I needed to be reminded.
The ending “twist” was not a big surprise and the actual ending scene was a confusing mess, featuring phrases like “I don’t know how she managed to ______, but she did. Somehow.” Really?
I do think this author has skill, but this particular story wasn't my fave, unfortunately.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Biggest TW: Sexual Assault, Drunk Driving, Animal Cruelty/Death, Loss of Pregnancy
We follow two alternating POV’s and timelines. Each is frustrating in its own way. The past storyline follows one of the Venuses, Eleanor, but you learn everything that happens leading up to the point where she becomes a Venus and her life is mostly a bad time. Not the experience I was hoping for, considering what I had expected. The present day plot line is narrated by Alys, a mysterious figure who is somehow connected to the Venuses and determined to destroy them. I found her story interesting at first but it was so dragged out that by the time I was finally given some answers I didn’t really care anymore.
It takes a long time and quite a bit of backstory in which the ladies are horribly mistreated before you get to the part where they are exacting their revenge. Eleanor did not deserve any of the things that happened to her. However, I found her profoundly frustrating. She was a dope with stars in her eyes and no sense of self-preservation whatsoever. Her love, in my opinion, bordered on obsession. I eventually lost my sympathy for her. She’s the kind of person who, when help is offered to her, slaps it away. Then she complains that no one is saving her. There’s another character in the story who suffers horribly and almost seems to only exist for that purpose and I have to wonder why the book is so mean spirited.
The writing itself is good, so I was torn about the rating. I wanted a horrific and fun tale about creepy wax beauties slaughtering men and instead I got a very sad story about the loss of bodily autonomy. There’s also a particularly heartbreaking moment involving an animal that is brought up repeatedly, as if I needed to be reminded.
The ending “twist” was not a big surprise and the actual ending scene was a confusing mess, featuring phrases like “I don’t know how she managed to ______, but she did. Somehow.” Really?
I do think this author has skill, but this particular story wasn't my fave, unfortunately.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Biggest TW: Sexual Assault, Drunk Driving, Animal Cruelty/Death, Loss of Pregnancy
May 7, 2025
I kinda feel like I should apologize for putting this book on your updates feeds, because a woman with a torn open back might be a little too much for some people. The cover does fit the book remarkably well though, and it ultimately was what caught my attention in the first place. It's a fictional story about the morbid real-life history of the so-called Anatomical Venuses, or Slashed Beauties – anatomical wax figures of women that were used for medical education purposes. And because men apparently can't learn anything if a body isn't prettily laid out before them, the wax models were a strange mix of beauty and violence, sex and death. It's such an interesting topic, and I'm really glad that this book introduced me to it.
The story is told in dual timelines. Alys is a present day antiques dealer who finally gets a hold of one of three Anatomical Venuses. Her goal, however, is to destroy the wax models, because they are said to be cursed with coming to life and murdering the men that harmed them. The other plotline follows Eleanor in 1769s London as she starts life as a sex worker after she got talked into it by the elegant and generous Elizabeth. Eleanor is promised a glamorous and easy lifestyle but slowly realizes that she is used in more than one way. The past storyline shows how the wax figures came to be in the first place while the present-day chapters are about their end. I was more invested in the past storyline, mostly because the present-day destruction of the wax figures was connected to witchcraft and that just didn't fit the overall story at all in my opinion. I would have preferred the supernatural aura surrounding the wax models to be some kind of unexplained magic rather than witchcraft with evil intent. The witchcraft also took away the opportunity to make this a true revenge story, because the wax women were always controlled by someone. It would have helped too if the characters had stronger personalities. I found both Alys and Eleanor to be quite unremarkable. That doesn't mean that I didn't like to follow them around, but they were both way less intriguing than the side character of Elizabeth, which made for a unbalanced constellation of characters. So yes, I had some problems with this book, but I still had the most interesting reading experience. It's more of a 3.5 star book for me, but I would recommend it if the topic sounds compelling to you.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and VERVE Books for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told in dual timelines. Alys is a present day antiques dealer who finally gets a hold of one of three Anatomical Venuses. Her goal, however, is to destroy the wax models, because they are said to be cursed with coming to life and murdering the men that harmed them. The other plotline follows Eleanor in 1769s London as she starts life as a sex worker after she got talked into it by the elegant and generous Elizabeth. Eleanor is promised a glamorous and easy lifestyle but slowly realizes that she is used in more than one way. The past storyline shows how the wax figures came to be in the first place while the present-day chapters are about their end. I was more invested in the past storyline, mostly because the present-day destruction of the wax figures was connected to witchcraft and that just didn't fit the overall story at all in my opinion. I would have preferred the supernatural aura surrounding the wax models to be some kind of unexplained magic rather than witchcraft with evil intent. The witchcraft also took away the opportunity to make this a true revenge story, because the wax women were always controlled by someone. It would have helped too if the characters had stronger personalities. I found both Alys and Eleanor to be quite unremarkable. That doesn't mean that I didn't like to follow them around, but they were both way less intriguing than the side character of Elizabeth, which made for a unbalanced constellation of characters. So yes, I had some problems with this book, but I still had the most interesting reading experience. It's more of a 3.5 star book for me, but I would recommend it if the topic sounds compelling to you.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and VERVE Books for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2025
I had no idea what this book was about when I picked it up and based on the reviews I've read it was probably a good thing that I started with absolutely no expectations.
September 14, 2025
3.0 Stars
I enjoyed the body horror elements of this, involving the wax figurines. That being said, I will admit that this one fell beneath my expectations.
I expected the prose to be more lush. Instead the writing was very plain which felt like it wasn't taking full potential of the story being told. The plot and characters were fine but I felt like the serviceable writing undercut the power of this story.
This is one I wanted so badly to love so I am disappointed to only provide a lukewarm review. It was fine but I was expecting a new favourite.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I enjoyed the body horror elements of this, involving the wax figurines. That being said, I will admit that this one fell beneath my expectations.
I expected the prose to be more lush. Instead the writing was very plain which felt like it wasn't taking full potential of the story being told. The plot and characters were fine but I felt like the serviceable writing undercut the power of this story.
This is one I wanted so badly to love so I am disappointed to only provide a lukewarm review. It was fine but I was expecting a new favourite.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 5, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was such a unique read. Told in dual timelines, a bewitching story about three women in the sex trade in the past, and the woman who wants to destroy the anatomical Venuses in the present. I was drawn in by the cover and immediately grabbed by the first page. Alys is an antique dealer with a mysterious connection to the wax figures who were rumored to come alive at night to murder the men who wronged them. Eleanor ran away with the love of her life only for him to leave her alone and penniless. On her search for him, she meets Elizabeth and Emily who will change her life. Full of secrets, mystery, and revenge this is was such an entertaining gothic read I can’t wait to add to my shelves.
This was such a unique read. Told in dual timelines, a bewitching story about three women in the sex trade in the past, and the woman who wants to destroy the anatomical Venuses in the present. I was drawn in by the cover and immediately grabbed by the first page. Alys is an antique dealer with a mysterious connection to the wax figures who were rumored to come alive at night to murder the men who wronged them. Eleanor ran away with the love of her life only for him to leave her alone and penniless. On her search for him, she meets Elizabeth and Emily who will change her life. Full of secrets, mystery, and revenge this is was such an entertaining gothic read I can’t wait to add to my shelves.
July 11, 2025
This book gets a strong A grade for the way it holds you in a place of eerie confusion for much of its length. That kept me reading, because for a good 70% or so of the book you gain only a few pieces of the puzzle, not enough to really put it all together. The double timelines do excellent work with pacing and giving you real story to grab on to in the historical story to make up for the small breadcrumbs of the modern story.
Sadly, as many horror/gothic novels do, it crumbles in the final third. The explanations are too complex and there's an inevitable letdown when a book sets up this much of a mood of mystery. As we go, the historical characters in particular become less interesting and more caricatures. Only noble or only evil, not much room for anything in between. Somehow the end is both too fast and too long.
But the Venuses are certainly compelling, worth a strange and twisty story for sure. Though it's a bit odd for a story that hinges so much on murder, this book has so little of it. (For the prudish, there is also virtually no sex even though it's a book about sex workers.)
Sadly, as many horror/gothic novels do, it crumbles in the final third. The explanations are too complex and there's an inevitable letdown when a book sets up this much of a mood of mystery. As we go, the historical characters in particular become less interesting and more caricatures. Only noble or only evil, not much room for anything in between. Somehow the end is both too fast and too long.
But the Venuses are certainly compelling, worth a strange and twisty story for sure. Though it's a bit odd for a story that hinges so much on murder, this book has so little of it. (For the prudish, there is also virtually no sex even though it's a book about sex workers.)
December 12, 2025
Told across two timelines, this is the story of three intricately detailed wax anatomical figures that are rumoured to come alive at night and murder the men who’ve wronged them. This is a juicy, twisty story and I think its fast pace will appeal to both adult horror fans and to YA readers ready for something a bit more gruesome.
This book also taught me about a historical phenomenon I was not aware of. Eighteenth-century educators really did use anatomical models modelled after beautiful women in a bid to hold medical students’ attention. The book really digs into the misogyny behind this idea—practicing dissection and other procedures on an almost sexualized figure—in an interesting way.
If you like historical British vibes, a plot that doesn’t stop twisting and turning, and a feminist message, you’ll enjoy this one!
This book also taught me about a historical phenomenon I was not aware of. Eighteenth-century educators really did use anatomical models modelled after beautiful women in a bid to hold medical students’ attention. The book really digs into the misogyny behind this idea—practicing dissection and other procedures on an almost sexualized figure—in an interesting way.
If you like historical British vibes, a plot that doesn’t stop twisting and turning, and a feminist message, you’ll enjoy this one!
August 6, 2025
3.5 stars
I’m no stranger to the weird and wild corners of history (melified man, anyone?), but Slashed Beauties took me on a ride I didn’t expect. Just when you think mankind couldn’t be more depraved, you learn about anatomical Venuses (18th century wax models of women, sliced open like morbid centerfolds for medical students to gawk at). These creepy, hyper-realistic figures are the beating (or, uh, waxy?) heart of Rushby’s gothic feminist horror, and let me tell you, it’s both fascinating and frustrating, like trying to assemble IKEA furniture with half the instructions missing.
The story ping-pongs between two timelines. In present-day, we’ve got Alys, an antiques dealer with a knack for sniffing out cursed knickknacks. She’s tasked with hauling one of these so-called “slashed beauties” to London with a bizarre catch: she’s gotta torch it when she gets there. Sounds like a gig I’d politely decline, but Alys is all in, driven by some murky family connection to these murderous wax ladies. Meanwhile, in 1769 London, we follow Eleanor, a naive young woman who gets sucked into the orbit of Elizabeth, a charismatic courtesan, and her protégé, Emily. These three end up tangled in a dark, magical plot involving the Venuses, who, legend has it, come to life at night to shank men who’ve wronged them. What I wanna know is... Do they take requests?
Rushby’s prose is lush, dripping with atmosphere like a foggy London alley. The 18th-century scenes are grimy, glittering, and reeking of desperation. The modern-day bits, though? They’re a bit of a slog. Alys is competent but flat, like a store-brand soda that’s lost its fizz. I wanted to root for her, but her motivations felt like they were scribbled on a napkin and lost in the wash.
The feminist rage pulsing through this book is delicious, though. Rushby doesn’t shy away from showing how women (then and now) get chewed up by a world that treats them like props. The Venuses, modeled after real sex workers, are a gut-punch metaphor for exploitation, and their supernatural revenge is the kind of catharsis that makes you wanna high-five a wax figure.
The first half builds dread like a pro, but the second half stumbles like me after one too many margaritas at book club. The big twist at the end is a banger, don’t get me wrong, but getting there felt like wading through molasses. I also wasn’t sold on the romance threads. They’re sweet but underdeveloped.
Still, Slashed Beauties hooked me enough to send me down a Google rabbit hole about anatomical Venuses at, which is both a compliment and a curse (my search history now looks like I’m planning a haunted museum heist). Rushby’s got a knack for blending history, horror, and heart, and her characters, especially Emily and Eleanor, stole the show. If you’re into gothic vibes, cursed objects, and women wreaking havoc, this is worth a read. Just don’t expect all the pieces to fit together like a perfectly dissected wax model.
I’m no stranger to the weird and wild corners of history (melified man, anyone?), but Slashed Beauties took me on a ride I didn’t expect. Just when you think mankind couldn’t be more depraved, you learn about anatomical Venuses (18th century wax models of women, sliced open like morbid centerfolds for medical students to gawk at). These creepy, hyper-realistic figures are the beating (or, uh, waxy?) heart of Rushby’s gothic feminist horror, and let me tell you, it’s both fascinating and frustrating, like trying to assemble IKEA furniture with half the instructions missing.
The story ping-pongs between two timelines. In present-day, we’ve got Alys, an antiques dealer with a knack for sniffing out cursed knickknacks. She’s tasked with hauling one of these so-called “slashed beauties” to London with a bizarre catch: she’s gotta torch it when she gets there. Sounds like a gig I’d politely decline, but Alys is all in, driven by some murky family connection to these murderous wax ladies. Meanwhile, in 1769 London, we follow Eleanor, a naive young woman who gets sucked into the orbit of Elizabeth, a charismatic courtesan, and her protégé, Emily. These three end up tangled in a dark, magical plot involving the Venuses, who, legend has it, come to life at night to shank men who’ve wronged them. What I wanna know is... Do they take requests?
Rushby’s prose is lush, dripping with atmosphere like a foggy London alley. The 18th-century scenes are grimy, glittering, and reeking of desperation. The modern-day bits, though? They’re a bit of a slog. Alys is competent but flat, like a store-brand soda that’s lost its fizz. I wanted to root for her, but her motivations felt like they were scribbled on a napkin and lost in the wash.
The feminist rage pulsing through this book is delicious, though. Rushby doesn’t shy away from showing how women (then and now) get chewed up by a world that treats them like props. The Venuses, modeled after real sex workers, are a gut-punch metaphor for exploitation, and their supernatural revenge is the kind of catharsis that makes you wanna high-five a wax figure.
The first half builds dread like a pro, but the second half stumbles like me after one too many margaritas at book club. The big twist at the end is a banger, don’t get me wrong, but getting there felt like wading through molasses. I also wasn’t sold on the romance threads. They’re sweet but underdeveloped.
Still, Slashed Beauties hooked me enough to send me down a Google rabbit hole about anatomical Venuses at, which is both a compliment and a curse (my search history now looks like I’m planning a haunted museum heist). Rushby’s got a knack for blending history, horror, and heart, and her characters, especially Emily and Eleanor, stole the show. If you’re into gothic vibes, cursed objects, and women wreaking havoc, this is worth a read. Just don’t expect all the pieces to fit together like a perfectly dissected wax model.
March 28, 2025
This is a book I’m going to be thinking about for a long time.
Slashed Beauties is a haunting and disconcerting yet thought-provoking novel told from dual POV. There is a legend of three 18th-century wax models of women, known as Anatomical Venuses or 'slashed beauties', and legend says they are bewitched, coming to life to murder men who have wronged them.
Eleanor is an 18th-century sex worker. Young and naive, she is taken in by Elizabeth and Emily, who promise her a life of luxury if she joins their soon to be illustrious sérail.
Alys is a modern day antiques dealer, offered an extremely generous amount of money to transport one of the anatomical venuses to London - but she is told that it must be destroyed when it gets there.
“𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆. 𝑾𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕. 𝑻𝒐𝒈����𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
A story of sisterhood and betrayal, this is a gothic feminist horror that made me sad and angry from start to end. Emily and Eleanor were by far my favourite characters, I was absolutely enamoured by them and how their story unfolded. But it was really the end of this book that hit me the most, and the plot twist that I truly never saw coming.
I would give this 6⭐️ if I could, genuinely. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy.
Slashed Beauties is a haunting and disconcerting yet thought-provoking novel told from dual POV. There is a legend of three 18th-century wax models of women, known as Anatomical Venuses or 'slashed beauties', and legend says they are bewitched, coming to life to murder men who have wronged them.
Eleanor is an 18th-century sex worker. Young and naive, she is taken in by Elizabeth and Emily, who promise her a life of luxury if she joins their soon to be illustrious sérail.
Alys is a modern day antiques dealer, offered an extremely generous amount of money to transport one of the anatomical venuses to London - but she is told that it must be destroyed when it gets there.
“𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆. 𝑾𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕. 𝑻𝒐𝒈����𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
A story of sisterhood and betrayal, this is a gothic feminist horror that made me sad and angry from start to end. Emily and Eleanor were by far my favourite characters, I was absolutely enamoured by them and how their story unfolded. But it was really the end of this book that hit me the most, and the plot twist that I truly never saw coming.
I would give this 6⭐️ if I could, genuinely. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy.
September 16, 2025
YALL. Huge thanks to Berkley for the physical ARC. I originally saw the UK cover, which is wild, but I enjoy this one quite a lot too.
So right off the rip, I was drawn in by the comments on a feminist body horror, of wax models coming to life to dispatch men that have wronged them. And while that does happen, that’s not exactly what this book is about. This is an incredibly slow burn with an equally slow build. While this does teeter on the edge in the final act, I don’t know that I would call it a body horror…at least not in what I imagine is the typical sense. To me, this was an almost historical drama and horror, the tale of two women trapped by circumstance and a master manipulator.
Eleanor, after running away from home for love, then sleeping with the man only to be abandoned, finds herself in quite the bind. She cannot return home due to how she left, and 1763 London doesn’t look kindly on young women that are all alone. Here enters Elizabeth, a resplendent and well-mannered Lady, to sweep her off her feet. She speaks a big game about pretty things, about having money not just for needs but for wants. She is opening her own serail, a high class brothel, to be the first of its kind in London, and she thinks Eleanor is just the beauty she needs. There’s talk of a family-style existence there, of having people to lean on, and truthfully, as it stands, Eleanor is not exactly juggling options.
On the modern side of this split timeline story we have Alys, a high class antiques dealer, and the true driving force for the novel. We meet her, then learn of the wax Venuses and their entrancing abilities in short order, only to find out that she is being pushed (read: coerced) to destroy them ASAP. She agrees to do so in two weeks time, but the reader quickly learns that things aren’t so simple. While she is clearly a traumatized character with a hidden past, she remained this strong presence throughout the entire book for me.
I loved the different ways evil was showcased. Elizabeth is manipulating like someone that has always had the mind to put themselves ahead no matter what. She earns trust, builds a life for her girls, and then traps them. She then transcends time to appear as a witch or even an evil hag (to my mind), truly embodying the evil she has displayed. Then there are the men. And while this story operates around the idea of opening a brothel, there is not any actual sex work displayed. The men can easily be shown as deviant, misleading and misrepresenting women without having to go further. I also enjoyed the lack of there being more because it was never about it, or the men, it was all for Eleanor and Emily. And when the actual wax-figure antics finally began, I thought that how they were almost underused/under-shown really enhanced the impact. The thought of these women—so often ignored in every day life, or garnering attention they would never want (especially at night)—stalking devious men and waiting for the right moment to strike, was the perfect climax to a story filled with barely-tempered rage. And the visual of them dressed in all black brought to mind the Widow from season five of Slasher titled Ripper. The brutality present in this, while short, certainly equalled the likes of that show.
One thing I noticed right away was how spellbindingly well this was written. With a mix of short and long (longgggg) chapters, there is so much happening, with so much at stake, that even with things going slowly I was enraptured. This book is filled with so much history and life, and while it is absolutely destroying emotionally, it’s so well done as to make you end your read with a thank you to the author.
For me, this book tells the story of losing, or the loss of, autonomy. Or perhaps even the realization you never had it. As Elizabeth is slowly showing her true colors, there is this growing unease in atmosphere, truly driven deep by the two-week rush in the present day. Eleanor and Emily are not receiving the family camaraderie they were promised, and as seemingly nothing goes their way, their debt to Elizabeth is more of a chain than an opportunity. Then, with the novels more supernatural elements, the theme is nailed down by having them physically tethered to their wax figures. From a loss of autonomy to their souls being stuck in anatomical Venuses. With no choices of their own, with Eleanor not even able to speak on her own, there is a truly horrifying loss of self and autonomy. This is where there is true body horror. Lost to time and to self, but still present enough to know you’re being controlled. The idea of which is horrifying.
The ending featured several twists (some of which I had guessed, and others I hadn’t) and there are so many masterfully woven plot points coming back around that I was surprised in how it all finished up. Small details from throughout the entire story come back, some in major ways. The ending itself is even another tie back to the loss of autonomy, to losing free will. What must be sacrificed to finally be free? I find myself thinking the typical saying to finally be “set free” but even that feels like a certain amount of allowance comes from someone else…I’m still thinking about it every day, and I dare say this has become my favorite read this year.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-slashe...
So right off the rip, I was drawn in by the comments on a feminist body horror, of wax models coming to life to dispatch men that have wronged them. And while that does happen, that’s not exactly what this book is about. This is an incredibly slow burn with an equally slow build. While this does teeter on the edge in the final act, I don’t know that I would call it a body horror…at least not in what I imagine is the typical sense. To me, this was an almost historical drama and horror, the tale of two women trapped by circumstance and a master manipulator.
Eleanor, after running away from home for love, then sleeping with the man only to be abandoned, finds herself in quite the bind. She cannot return home due to how she left, and 1763 London doesn’t look kindly on young women that are all alone. Here enters Elizabeth, a resplendent and well-mannered Lady, to sweep her off her feet. She speaks a big game about pretty things, about having money not just for needs but for wants. She is opening her own serail, a high class brothel, to be the first of its kind in London, and she thinks Eleanor is just the beauty she needs. There’s talk of a family-style existence there, of having people to lean on, and truthfully, as it stands, Eleanor is not exactly juggling options.
On the modern side of this split timeline story we have Alys, a high class antiques dealer, and the true driving force for the novel. We meet her, then learn of the wax Venuses and their entrancing abilities in short order, only to find out that she is being pushed (read: coerced) to destroy them ASAP. She agrees to do so in two weeks time, but the reader quickly learns that things aren’t so simple. While she is clearly a traumatized character with a hidden past, she remained this strong presence throughout the entire book for me.
I loved the different ways evil was showcased. Elizabeth is manipulating like someone that has always had the mind to put themselves ahead no matter what. She earns trust, builds a life for her girls, and then traps them. She then transcends time to appear as a witch or even an evil hag (to my mind), truly embodying the evil she has displayed. Then there are the men. And while this story operates around the idea of opening a brothel, there is not any actual sex work displayed. The men can easily be shown as deviant, misleading and misrepresenting women without having to go further. I also enjoyed the lack of there being more because it was never about it, or the men, it was all for Eleanor and Emily. And when the actual wax-figure antics finally began, I thought that how they were almost underused/under-shown really enhanced the impact. The thought of these women—so often ignored in every day life, or garnering attention they would never want (especially at night)—stalking devious men and waiting for the right moment to strike, was the perfect climax to a story filled with barely-tempered rage. And the visual of them dressed in all black brought to mind the Widow from season five of Slasher titled Ripper. The brutality present in this, while short, certainly equalled the likes of that show.
One thing I noticed right away was how spellbindingly well this was written. With a mix of short and long (longgggg) chapters, there is so much happening, with so much at stake, that even with things going slowly I was enraptured. This book is filled with so much history and life, and while it is absolutely destroying emotionally, it’s so well done as to make you end your read with a thank you to the author.
For me, this book tells the story of losing, or the loss of, autonomy. Or perhaps even the realization you never had it. As Elizabeth is slowly showing her true colors, there is this growing unease in atmosphere, truly driven deep by the two-week rush in the present day. Eleanor and Emily are not receiving the family camaraderie they were promised, and as seemingly nothing goes their way, their debt to Elizabeth is more of a chain than an opportunity. Then, with the novels more supernatural elements, the theme is nailed down by having them physically tethered to their wax figures. From a loss of autonomy to their souls being stuck in anatomical Venuses. With no choices of their own, with Eleanor not even able to speak on her own, there is a truly horrifying loss of self and autonomy. This is where there is true body horror. Lost to time and to self, but still present enough to know you’re being controlled. The idea of which is horrifying.
The ending featured several twists (some of which I had guessed, and others I hadn’t) and there are so many masterfully woven plot points coming back around that I was surprised in how it all finished up. Small details from throughout the entire story come back, some in major ways. The ending itself is even another tie back to the loss of autonomy, to losing free will. What must be sacrificed to finally be free? I find myself thinking the typical saying to finally be “set free” but even that feels like a certain amount of allowance comes from someone else…I’m still thinking about it every day, and I dare say this has become my favorite read this year.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-slashe...
September 13, 2025
I’d never heard of anatomical venuses before, lifesize wax models of attractive women apparently to made to keep medical students interested in anatomy! Slashed beauties is about three models based on prostitutes with a myth attached, they are believed to have risen and killed men who have hurt them. Set in two timelines, modern where Alys gathers two of the Venuses with the intention of destroying them; and in the 1700s we follow Eleanor and how she is taken in by Elizabeth to be part of her brothel along with another girl, Emily.
I really enjoyed this book especially the first half, great atmosphere that kept me reading.
I really enjoyed this book especially the first half, great atmosphere that kept me reading.
October 29, 2025
3.5. This story is about Anatomical Venuses which are hyper realistic wax figurines that come to life in the night and seek justice for the wrong doing of men. We are experiencing two timelines and two women who have connections to the lore of these figurines.
I’ve been on a historical kick lately and I especially like the horror genre mixed in with that! The body horror was more mild than I expected, I feel as though this would be a good intro into horror for those who don’t want something too heavy. The story was super interesting and unique, I really loved learning about the Venuses! Add a little feminine rage in there and it’s a recipe for a great read (for me) I struggled with the pacing at times which made the dual timelines a bit challenging for me but I did enjoy this story as well as the writing overall!
Thank you so much to MTMC Tours and A. Rushby for providing this physical copy, this published on September 23rd. This is my honest review!
I’ve been on a historical kick lately and I especially like the horror genre mixed in with that! The body horror was more mild than I expected, I feel as though this would be a good intro into horror for those who don’t want something too heavy. The story was super interesting and unique, I really loved learning about the Venuses! Add a little feminine rage in there and it’s a recipe for a great read (for me) I struggled with the pacing at times which made the dual timelines a bit challenging for me but I did enjoy this story as well as the writing overall!
Thank you so much to MTMC Tours and A. Rushby for providing this physical copy, this published on September 23rd. This is my honest review!
August 30, 2025
ARC review
Slashed Beauties is a historical fiction/horror following two women centuries apart, tied together by a deadly curse. Alys, present day, comes from a respected line of antiques dealers and she finally takes possession of a wax model after years of chasing, on the grounds that she destroy it. Eleanor has a chance encounter in 1769 with Elizabeth, a veteran courtesan looking for maidens (or close enough) to join her in opening her own establishment with the promise of fairness and success. Eleanor and Emily, another of Elizabeth’s finds, are enamoured by Elizabeth’s charisma and their new prospects, so much so that they don’t realise they’re in sinking sand until they’re waist-deep and trapped. Eleanor recounts the story of hers and Emily’s mistreatment and the tragic events leading up to the creation of their wax models (look up Anatomical Venuses!!) that would gain infamy for coming to life and seeking revenge of men who wronged them.
First thing to know going in to this book - the blurb is kind of misleading. It set me up for a fiery good-for-her 384 page montage of creepy revenge- fuelled figures. In reality, this book is 90% about the events preceding the models gaining their legend, and if you go in knowing that you’ll enjoy it a lot more - in saying that, I still loved this book! It took a while to get where it was going but when it got there it was well worth all the character work the author put in! Elizabeth made me so angry it felt like a physical response, she is a FANTASTIC villain and it’s really easy to see how Eleanor and Emily fell into her trap. I preferred the 1769 chapters mostly for this reason, and how well the author sets the scene of this time. Eleanor and Emily’s heartfelt yet precarious bond is so sweet, and a bit painful as their connection inadvertently tethers them to their inevitable doom.
The only letdown for me was the dark magic that left me wanting. Curse work is a key element to this book and there were several gaps and things I didn’t completely understand. I would’ve loved even another 30 pages scattered throughout the last half to really flesh it out. This is especially present in the present day storyline, and the ending felt rushed. This shouldn’t deter anyone from picking this up, but I wouldn’t read it for the fantasy/witchy vibes alone.
This book took RESEARCH and taught me about a piece of history I’d never heard of before. That is my main hope for hist fic (which I don’t read often) and A. Rushby nails it. If you told me this was biographical with a little embellishment, I would believe you.
Slashed Beauties is a historical fiction/horror following two women centuries apart, tied together by a deadly curse. Alys, present day, comes from a respected line of antiques dealers and she finally takes possession of a wax model after years of chasing, on the grounds that she destroy it. Eleanor has a chance encounter in 1769 with Elizabeth, a veteran courtesan looking for maidens (or close enough) to join her in opening her own establishment with the promise of fairness and success. Eleanor and Emily, another of Elizabeth’s finds, are enamoured by Elizabeth’s charisma and their new prospects, so much so that they don’t realise they’re in sinking sand until they’re waist-deep and trapped. Eleanor recounts the story of hers and Emily’s mistreatment and the tragic events leading up to the creation of their wax models (look up Anatomical Venuses!!) that would gain infamy for coming to life and seeking revenge of men who wronged them.
First thing to know going in to this book - the blurb is kind of misleading. It set me up for a fiery good-for-her 384 page montage of creepy revenge- fuelled figures. In reality, this book is 90% about the events preceding the models gaining their legend, and if you go in knowing that you’ll enjoy it a lot more - in saying that, I still loved this book! It took a while to get where it was going but when it got there it was well worth all the character work the author put in! Elizabeth made me so angry it felt like a physical response, she is a FANTASTIC villain and it’s really easy to see how Eleanor and Emily fell into her trap. I preferred the 1769 chapters mostly for this reason, and how well the author sets the scene of this time. Eleanor and Emily’s heartfelt yet precarious bond is so sweet, and a bit painful as their connection inadvertently tethers them to their inevitable doom.
The only letdown for me was the dark magic that left me wanting. Curse work is a key element to this book and there were several gaps and things I didn’t completely understand. I would’ve loved even another 30 pages scattered throughout the last half to really flesh it out. This is especially present in the present day storyline, and the ending felt rushed. This shouldn’t deter anyone from picking this up, but I wouldn’t read it for the fantasy/witchy vibes alone.
This book took RESEARCH and taught me about a piece of history I’d never heard of before. That is my main hope for hist fic (which I don’t read often) and A. Rushby nails it. If you told me this was biographical with a little embellishment, I would believe you.
October 22, 2025
3.75⭐️
Gothic, horrific, and positively macabre, I cannot believe this book is shelved and categorized as a YA novel ☠️ (correction: my mistake, apparently it IS an adult novel but i have seen it shelved at several book locations in the YA section or with a YA label)
Centered around the enigmatic Elizabeth, a high class courtesan during 18th century London, and the two women caught under her spell (Eleanor & Emily), we see the rise and fall of their lives from the moment Eleanor meets Elizabeth to the moment they become immortalized in anatomical wax venuses for male consumption for all of eternity.
This book is told in alternating points of view from Alys (an antiques dealer currently in posession of the venuses) & Eleanore as they both navigate what to do with their current predicament. This book was tender and delightfully queer (though I wish the author would have been more straightforward in this fact). Emily and Eleanor's love story touched me to my core and I cried at the end 😭
I also liked that the author dove into the violence women inflict upon one another, and the violence men have inflicted upon women since the beginning of time (also loved that these horrific men got their due by the end). While I didn't love the alternating POV's, I was thoroughly enraptured in Eleanor's story (I finished this one in less than a day).
Gothic, horrific, and positively macabre,
Centered around the enigmatic Elizabeth, a high class courtesan during 18th century London, and the two women caught under her spell (Eleanor & Emily), we see the rise and fall of their lives from the moment Eleanor meets Elizabeth to the moment they become immortalized in anatomical wax venuses for male consumption for all of eternity.
This book is told in alternating points of view from Alys (an antiques dealer currently in posession of the venuses) & Eleanore as they both navigate what to do with their current predicament. This book was tender and delightfully queer (though I wish the author would have been more straightforward in this fact). Emily and Eleanor's love story touched me to my core and I cried at the end 😭
I also liked that the author dove into the violence women inflict upon one another, and the violence men have inflicted upon women since the beginning of time (also loved that these horrific men got their due by the end). While I didn't love the alternating POV's, I was thoroughly enraptured in Eleanor's story (I finished this one in less than a day).
September 11, 2025
Actual Rating 2.5
This work is told using dual timelines, one in the present day and one in the 1760s. Both timelines were promising but had too much unnecessary background that ended up drowning the plot. This felt especially true in the past timeline. Things came together a bit better in the last quarter of the book at least although the ending felt like a bit of mess.
Part of what I didn't love about this work is just how exposition heavy it was. It detracted from what could have been a strong gothic atmosphere and from the horror elements, leaving things feeling somewhat flat.
If you're looking for a historical fiction with a hint of gothic horror, you may enjoy this one. My thanks to NetGalley and Berkely Publishing Group for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 24, 2025
I’m not going to lie, calling this a feminist work when the main villain is actually a woman is a bit silly. Women can be questionable of course, but in the context of a sex worker/wax doll’s tale I feel like it’s obvious who should’ve been (the gross men). This premise felt like a total wasted opportunity by focusing on the wrong ideas and people.
The characters are not very likable, and even with a fair bit of time given to them, they still felt one-dimensional. Eleanor sort of floats around and her relationship with Emily is rather forced (and a tad obsessive), Emily is simply a PoC placeholder and bearer of anguish and despair to further Eleanor’s character progression, and Elizabeth is a laughable stereotypical villain with her tunnel vision and very odd decision-making. It’s clear the author wanted to make her morally grey, but the way it manifests is strange and feels completely wrong in motive. These characters would’ve been a lot stronger actually working together against their common enemy, rather than having a bunch of internal conflicts and oppression that ruins any hope of them having camaraderie. I can appreciate wanting to send the lack of bodily autonomy message home, but I really didn't like how it was furthered here.
The dual timeline and supernatural elements felt janky and not placed well into the plot. If anything I feel a straightforward timeline to the present would’ve worked a lot better, since none of the revenge events happen until the last quarter anyways. Part of this book’s problem is that it felt like a very long prequel to what you’d expect it to actually be about, yet what you’d expect ends up never being the focus of the story. Plus, it’s fairly obvious by the halfway point what Alys’s connection to the dolls are, so there isn’t even a big twist to keep the alternating timelines intriguing. Honestly, it felt rather pointless in the grand scheme of things, and quite frankly the whole present-time plot, including the ending, was just goofy.
If you think this is going to be a fun and satisfying revenge story featuring wax dolls, you’re in for a huge disappointment. What a shame because this really could’ve been great.
The characters are not very likable, and even with a fair bit of time given to them, they still felt one-dimensional. Eleanor sort of floats around and her relationship with Emily is rather forced (and a tad obsessive), Emily is simply a PoC placeholder and bearer of anguish and despair to further Eleanor’s character progression, and Elizabeth is a laughable stereotypical villain with her tunnel vision and very odd decision-making. It’s clear the author wanted to make her morally grey, but the way it manifests is strange and feels completely wrong in motive. These characters would’ve been a lot stronger actually working together against their common enemy, rather than having a bunch of internal conflicts and oppression that ruins any hope of them having camaraderie. I can appreciate wanting to send the lack of bodily autonomy message home, but I really didn't like how it was furthered here.
The dual timeline and supernatural elements felt janky and not placed well into the plot. If anything I feel a straightforward timeline to the present would’ve worked a lot better, since none of the revenge events happen until the last quarter anyways. Part of this book’s problem is that it felt like a very long prequel to what you’d expect it to actually be about, yet what you’d expect ends up never being the focus of the story. Plus, it’s fairly obvious by the halfway point what Alys’s connection to the dolls are, so there isn’t even a big twist to keep the alternating timelines intriguing. Honestly, it felt rather pointless in the grand scheme of things, and quite frankly the whole present-time plot, including the ending, was just goofy.
If you think this is going to be a fun and satisfying revenge story featuring wax dolls, you’re in for a huge disappointment. What a shame because this really could’ve been great.
December 16, 2025
Originally I rated this 4 stars, but after months passed & I’m STILL thinking/talking about this book. She deserves her extra ⭐️. THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD. It stays with you. The emotional roller coaster I went on while reading this should be studied. You have two POVs, two timelines, body horror, historical fiction, fantasy elements, and allll the emotions in this book. Honestly, the author must be a genius bc how the hell did they do that?! I devoured this genre-bending masterpiece. Beginning, middle, & ending? ALL SUPERB!
Thank you NetGalley, author, & publisher for this glorious ARC 🖤
Thank you NetGalley, author, & publisher for this glorious ARC 🖤
September 16, 2025
Round up to 3.75
This book made me think of Rosalie’s one particular scene in Twilight’s ‘I was a bit theatrical back then’ but make it a book! This weaved historical fiction with fantasy and a dash of body horror🩸
So be ready to add this to your TBR for spooky season because wax figures, curses, murder, and a dual timeline? Slashed Beauties gives you all of that and more. In the past we follow Eleanor, who gets pulled into Elizabeth’s dark and dangerous world (the definition of ✨this is not going to end well, but I can’t look away🙈)
In the present day, Alys is trying to break the curse of these super creepy Anatomical Venuses. It’s gothic, it’s eerie, and it’s basically vibes on vibes.
ropes
🕯 Gothic horror + historical fiction
👩👩👧👧 Female rage / messy found family
🩸 Body horror & curses
💔 Tragic little romance threads
🎭 Dual POV & dual timelines
✨ Creepy wax dolls
This was haunting, weird, and so atmospheric. Eleanor’s chapters were hands down my fave (the gothic vibes were chef’s kiss), while Alys’s parts felt more modern. The middle dragged a little, but overall the concept + atmosphere totally carried it for me. If you love your fall reads creepy, tragic, and just the right amount of magical this is a must! I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future🥹🕯️
This book made me think of Rosalie’s one particular scene in Twilight’s ‘I was a bit theatrical back then’ but make it a book! This weaved historical fiction with fantasy and a dash of body horror🩸
So be ready to add this to your TBR for spooky season because wax figures, curses, murder, and a dual timeline? Slashed Beauties gives you all of that and more. In the past we follow Eleanor, who gets pulled into Elizabeth’s dark and dangerous world (the definition of ✨this is not going to end well, but I can’t look away🙈)
In the present day, Alys is trying to break the curse of these super creepy Anatomical Venuses. It’s gothic, it’s eerie, and it’s basically vibes on vibes.
ropes
🕯 Gothic horror + historical fiction
👩👩👧👧 Female rage / messy found family
🩸 Body horror & curses
💔 Tragic little romance threads
🎭 Dual POV & dual timelines
✨ Creepy wax dolls
This was haunting, weird, and so atmospheric. Eleanor’s chapters were hands down my fave (the gothic vibes were chef’s kiss), while Alys’s parts felt more modern. The middle dragged a little, but overall the concept + atmosphere totally carried it for me. If you love your fall reads creepy, tragic, and just the right amount of magical this is a must! I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future🥹🕯️
August 30, 2025
Slashed Beauties had me hooked from the get-go, the mysterious and tragic atmosphere was expertly built by A. Rushby's writing, and it showed as it only took me a couple of days to finish this one!
Unfortunately, I did feel the slow build-up for 75% of the novel is where it excelled, the last portion of the story as reveal after reveal happened didn't quite hit as succinctly. The mystery of Slashed Beauties was much more enjoyable than the actual reveal of what was happening.
3.5 stars rounded down.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
Unfortunately, I did feel the slow build-up for 75% of the novel is where it excelled, the last portion of the story as reveal after reveal happened didn't quite hit as succinctly. The mystery of Slashed Beauties was much more enjoyable than the actual reveal of what was happening.
3.5 stars rounded down.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
September 24, 2025
This book may not have outright scared me, but boy did it give me the creepy-crawlies. That’s a huge thing for me, because it takes a lot to creep me out to the point where I feel like I want to throw hands, scream into the void, and wrap myself in a blanket burrito with my dog all at the same time.
Allison Rushby (writing as A. Rushby) bounces us with a great deal of grace and precision between 1873 London and the present-day (the book starts out in Seoul, but quickly moves to the UK) as a woman named Alys moves in what seems to be a long-game to reunite two of three specific anatomical Venuses that are connected by some sort of curse. The scenes from 1873 London are moody and atmospheric, filled with the warm glow of gas lamps and the gray clouds of workhouses while the scenes from the present-day UK are less moody and more nostalgic tinged with a frantic paranoia.
You would think the theme that would stick out the most to me and infuriate me the most would be the violent nature of men and their need to maintain power over women. Surprisingly, that’s not where the heart of the horror is. The heart of the horror here is where women betray women. When women look to men to solve all their problems, even if that means throwing other women under the bus. When women throw particular other women under the bus if it means getting what they want. Those kinds of women must be stopped before they perpetuate the cycle. 4⭐️
I was provided a copy of this title by the author and publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Body Horror/Feminist Horror/Historical Horror/Horror/LGBTQ Horror/Occult Horror/Women’s Fiction
Allison Rushby (writing as A. Rushby) bounces us with a great deal of grace and precision between 1873 London and the present-day (the book starts out in Seoul, but quickly moves to the UK) as a woman named Alys moves in what seems to be a long-game to reunite two of three specific anatomical Venuses that are connected by some sort of curse. The scenes from 1873 London are moody and atmospheric, filled with the warm glow of gas lamps and the gray clouds of workhouses while the scenes from the present-day UK are less moody and more nostalgic tinged with a frantic paranoia.
You would think the theme that would stick out the most to me and infuriate me the most would be the violent nature of men and their need to maintain power over women. Surprisingly, that’s not where the heart of the horror is. The heart of the horror here is where women betray women. When women look to men to solve all their problems, even if that means throwing other women under the bus. When women throw particular other women under the bus if it means getting what they want. Those kinds of women must be stopped before they perpetuate the cycle. 4⭐️
I was provided a copy of this title by the author and publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Body Horror/Feminist Horror/Historical Horror/Horror/LGBTQ Horror/Occult Horror/Women’s Fiction
September 8, 2025
Review in the September 2025 issue of Booklist and on the blog here: https://raforall.blogspot.com/2025/09...
Three Words That Describe This Book: 2 time frames, Feminist Gothic, Original
Great cover! Accurate in so many ways as to what you will find inside.
First of all, if you like a book where you are highly entertained and learn something new from history, you should read this book! Slashed Beauties of Anatomical Venuses-- were an actual thing. They were anatomical wax models of sex workers for medical school students to use to study. It was found that they paid better attention is the models were beautiful-- GROSS.
From the author's note:
"Readers have asked me where they might see an anatomical Venus in the flesh (so to speak) for themselves. Some of the finest examples can be seen at La Specola Anatomical Collection, in Florence, but there are also some to be found at the Semmelweis Medical Museum, in Budapest; at the Josephinum Medical Museum, in Vienna; and at the Museo di Palazzo Poggi Anatomy and Obstetrics Collection, in Bologna."
Also the details about like in London surrounding the "pleasure gardens" in 1769 is also well done.
The setting is great. It feels real and if you read the entire author's note you see that it is because it is all based on very real stuff and lots of research.
The 2 timelines are told by Alys in the present day. She is an antiques dealer whose family is related to Eleanor-- one of the Venuses. And the other timeline is 1769 as Eleanor meets Elizabeth and Emily and begins to work for Elizabeth in the upscale sex industry.
It is rumored that the Venuses came to life and killed the men who wronged them. In the current time line the stories open as Alys, who has had Eleanor in storage and has important items linked to Emily (who burned at one point we are told), is finally getting her hands on Elizabeth. She is trying to destroy all three together to stop their evil reign. Because, yes, it is clear to the reader from the start that the stories about the power of these wax women hold a lot of truth. But how much truth, that is what we read for.
Readers will get lost in the part of the book seet in 1769-- Eleanor is a great narrator, historically accurate, inquisitive, and shares the world very well.
Alys, in our current time line is a little more chaotic and is clearly holding back info from everyone. The reader gets more than the others, but not much more. This is on purpose because the timelines slowly collide and the Anatomical Venuses are physically brought together for the first time in 250+ years. It all comes together, but as a reading experience, the "now" timeline is less satisfying on its own. But to be fair, you are not supposed to read it on its own.
This is a feminist Gothic that reaches its hands across time. It is original in that the author is not inly sharing a little known history, but the story she has created around it is compelling and terrifying both in its reality and in the supernatural parts she made up.
It is also a story that deals with trauma and sex workers with the care both deserve.
Readalikes: Any female rage/feminist historical titles will work here.
But specifically, The Butcher's Daughter by Demchuck and Clark (I read and reviewed earlier this year) meets The Eyes Are The Best Part by Kim.
2 less well known readalikes are:
*Out by Natsuo Kirino is a great readalike as well. It is for fans of The Eyes Are the Best Part
*Centuries of June by Keith Donohue. Also The Motion of Puppets by him as well. Those are both VERY GOOD but I am afraid they are too obscure for the magazine. I will have the editors add them to the side bar.
Another book I read a few years ago-- The Taxidermist Lover by Hall works well here.
Another book from this year that Slashed Beauties is similar to is Old Soul by Barker.
Again, I will include all of these in Booklist Online but due to word count, I am keeping the first two. Those will serve the library workers best as they make purchasing decisions and/or match this book with a reader.
Three Words That Describe This Book: 2 time frames, Feminist Gothic, Original
Great cover! Accurate in so many ways as to what you will find inside.
First of all, if you like a book where you are highly entertained and learn something new from history, you should read this book! Slashed Beauties of Anatomical Venuses-- were an actual thing. They were anatomical wax models of sex workers for medical school students to use to study. It was found that they paid better attention is the models were beautiful-- GROSS.
From the author's note:
"Readers have asked me where they might see an anatomical Venus in the flesh (so to speak) for themselves. Some of the finest examples can be seen at La Specola Anatomical Collection, in Florence, but there are also some to be found at the Semmelweis Medical Museum, in Budapest; at the Josephinum Medical Museum, in Vienna; and at the Museo di Palazzo Poggi Anatomy and Obstetrics Collection, in Bologna."
Also the details about like in London surrounding the "pleasure gardens" in 1769 is also well done.
The setting is great. It feels real and if you read the entire author's note you see that it is because it is all based on very real stuff and lots of research.
The 2 timelines are told by Alys in the present day. She is an antiques dealer whose family is related to Eleanor-- one of the Venuses. And the other timeline is 1769 as Eleanor meets Elizabeth and Emily and begins to work for Elizabeth in the upscale sex industry.
It is rumored that the Venuses came to life and killed the men who wronged them. In the current time line the stories open as Alys, who has had Eleanor in storage and has important items linked to Emily (who burned at one point we are told), is finally getting her hands on Elizabeth. She is trying to destroy all three together to stop their evil reign. Because, yes, it is clear to the reader from the start that the stories about the power of these wax women hold a lot of truth. But how much truth, that is what we read for.
Readers will get lost in the part of the book seet in 1769-- Eleanor is a great narrator, historically accurate, inquisitive, and shares the world very well.
Alys, in our current time line is a little more chaotic and is clearly holding back info from everyone. The reader gets more than the others, but not much more. This is on purpose because the timelines slowly collide and the Anatomical Venuses are physically brought together for the first time in 250+ years. It all comes together, but as a reading experience, the "now" timeline is less satisfying on its own. But to be fair, you are not supposed to read it on its own.
This is a feminist Gothic that reaches its hands across time. It is original in that the author is not inly sharing a little known history, but the story she has created around it is compelling and terrifying both in its reality and in the supernatural parts she made up.
It is also a story that deals with trauma and sex workers with the care both deserve.
Readalikes: Any female rage/feminist historical titles will work here.
But specifically, The Butcher's Daughter by Demchuck and Clark (I read and reviewed earlier this year) meets The Eyes Are The Best Part by Kim.
2 less well known readalikes are:
*Out by Natsuo Kirino is a great readalike as well. It is for fans of The Eyes Are the Best Part
*Centuries of June by Keith Donohue. Also The Motion of Puppets by him as well. Those are both VERY GOOD but I am afraid they are too obscure for the magazine. I will have the editors add them to the side bar.
Another book I read a few years ago-- The Taxidermist Lover by Hall works well here.
Another book from this year that Slashed Beauties is similar to is Old Soul by Barker.
Again, I will include all of these in Booklist Online but due to word count, I am keeping the first two. Those will serve the library workers best as they make purchasing decisions and/or match this book with a reader.
September 15, 2025
Seoul, present day:
Antiques and oddities dealer Alys is offered an exuberant amount of money to transport something that is akin to myth and legend, an entity so rare and ethereal, many a person around the globe would happily pay any price to glance upon its visage, to bask in its presence - one of three Anatomical Venuses that through the years has amassed such a heavy veil of mystery and intrigue - to London, with one very specific condition.
Alys must destroy it, she must see this through should she wish to see not only her bank balance grow, but to be free of the ghosts that have clung to her for many, many years…
London, 1769:
After what appears to be nothing more than a chance encounter within the stately confines of the mighty Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, young, vulnerable, hapless Eleanor is promised a life nothing short of a fairytale - luxuries, a place in society, to be revered by all - proposed to her by the charismatic and beautiful Elizabeth and her outspoken but caring protégé, Emily.
And to obtain this life, all she must do is surrender complete control of her destiny into Elizabeth’s capable hands…
However, as Alys confronts the Venus and her past, and Eleanor falls deeper and deeper into debt with Elizabeth all while her bond grows with Emily, these women will come to realise not everything is what is seems.
After all, Elizabeth has plans for Eleanor… big plans. And she will be powerless to stop such blinding ambition.
Men want their bodies.
Now they want revenge.
Like the sweetest and deadliest of poisons, Slashed Beauties gets under your skin and devours you. A gothic novel steeped in female rage; bewitching and captivating
Antiques and oddities dealer Alys is offered an exuberant amount of money to transport something that is akin to myth and legend, an entity so rare and ethereal, many a person around the globe would happily pay any price to glance upon its visage, to bask in its presence - one of three Anatomical Venuses that through the years has amassed such a heavy veil of mystery and intrigue - to London, with one very specific condition.
Alys must destroy it, she must see this through should she wish to see not only her bank balance grow, but to be free of the ghosts that have clung to her for many, many years…
London, 1769:
After what appears to be nothing more than a chance encounter within the stately confines of the mighty Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, young, vulnerable, hapless Eleanor is promised a life nothing short of a fairytale - luxuries, a place in society, to be revered by all - proposed to her by the charismatic and beautiful Elizabeth and her outspoken but caring protégé, Emily.
And to obtain this life, all she must do is surrender complete control of her destiny into Elizabeth’s capable hands…
However, as Alys confronts the Venus and her past, and Eleanor falls deeper and deeper into debt with Elizabeth all while her bond grows with Emily, these women will come to realise not everything is what is seems.
After all, Elizabeth has plans for Eleanor… big plans. And she will be powerless to stop such blinding ambition.
Men want their bodies.
Now they want revenge.
Like the sweetest and deadliest of poisons, Slashed Beauties gets under your skin and devours you. A gothic novel steeped in female rage; bewitching and captivating
June 9, 2025
Thank you A. Rushby & Berkley Publishing!!!! I will reread this book for YEARS to come. my only qualm with being given this truly magnificent eARC is that I can’t place this on display on my bookshelf…much like a Venus funny enough 😂
This entire novel is SO compelling. I read it truly within about a full day, and I never tired I just kept turning the pages and couldn’t stop.
The plot so perfectly encapsulates putrid terrible men, and the beasts women can become in an unfair world and how those two things combined create the most deadly circumstances that push you to do unspeakable things in search of justice.
Slashed Beauties is probably one of my favorite novels I’ve ever read now. 10/10 will recommend this to everyone, and will eventually have it on display as par for the course 😌
This entire novel is SO compelling. I read it truly within about a full day, and I never tired I just kept turning the pages and couldn’t stop.
The plot so perfectly encapsulates putrid terrible men, and the beasts women can become in an unfair world and how those two things combined create the most deadly circumstances that push you to do unspeakable things in search of justice.
Slashed Beauties is probably one of my favorite novels I’ve ever read now. 10/10 will recommend this to everyone, and will eventually have it on display as par for the course 😌
September 26, 2025
This is such a brilliant novel, like truly one of the most unique books I ever read! The second I finished it I RAN to yap about it everyone I know bc HOLY SHIT. So so good.
October 16, 2025
4.25!
I was immediately hooked by the premise: feminist horror about realistic wax figures who come to life to murder men? I’m so sat.
But then I began reading and was immediately transported into its world: one of intertwining narratives, women of the past and present trapped and restricted in different ways; the horror of the conditions for female sex workers in Georgian times; the commentary on anatomical figures being created, modelled off female sėx-workers as the only way to entice male medical students to engage in the field. There is so much violence wrapped up here, in the intrigue and the enjoyable prose.
Eleanor and Emily’s story is of commodification, exploitation. Elizabeth is a cruel mistress, guilty of using them for her own revenge and means just as the men in their lives use them for pleasure and naught else. Misogyny abounds here, and Rushby does a wonderful job of depicting Elizabeth as an upholder of patriarchal violence against women just as much as the men in this book. It’s a deep dive into the violence done to women’s bodies, the horrifying reality of sex work in Georgian time, and the appalling lack of autonomy for women (has much even changed??) even if they “win” and secure themselves a fortune and “freedom”.
The pacing, for me, was just a touch off - as the climactic scene in the novel got much less time on page than the backstory for our dynamic and toxic trio in 1700s London. While I enjoyed the build up and found the atmosphere well written, I would have liked to see more of the realities of Elizabeth’s cruel bargain to get the weight of it - we only really get our Anatomical Venuses on page after 60-65%.
However when there was a whiff of SAPPHIC?? Oh, it made it hit so much harder. I would have loved there to be more between these characters, between Eleanor and Emily, but I found their story to be heart rending for its tragedy. When women are not free in their bodies, we love them to at least be free in their hearts - but this is a story of being caged at all angles.
At it’s heart, this is a story of wronged women, of exploitation, of the violence done to women by men, and other women, but it is also story of love, of perseverance, of reclaiming our selves when we have so long been denied autonomy. It is an exploration of how women’s sexuality and bodies are so irregularly not a commodity, to be bargain and sold, bartered and stolen, but that finding your person is often well worth the wait.
Thank you to MTMC Tours for the review copy! All thoughts are my own
I was immediately hooked by the premise: feminist horror about realistic wax figures who come to life to murder men? I’m so sat.
But then I began reading and was immediately transported into its world: one of intertwining narratives, women of the past and present trapped and restricted in different ways; the horror of the conditions for female sex workers in Georgian times; the commentary on anatomical figures being created, modelled off female sėx-workers as the only way to entice male medical students to engage in the field. There is so much violence wrapped up here, in the intrigue and the enjoyable prose.
Eleanor and Emily’s story is of commodification, exploitation. Elizabeth is a cruel mistress, guilty of using them for her own revenge and means just as the men in their lives use them for pleasure and naught else. Misogyny abounds here, and Rushby does a wonderful job of depicting Elizabeth as an upholder of patriarchal violence against women just as much as the men in this book. It’s a deep dive into the violence done to women’s bodies, the horrifying reality of sex work in Georgian time, and the appalling lack of autonomy for women (has much even changed??) even if they “win” and secure themselves a fortune and “freedom”.
The pacing, for me, was just a touch off - as the climactic scene in the novel got much less time on page than the backstory for our dynamic and toxic trio in 1700s London. While I enjoyed the build up and found the atmosphere well written, I would have liked to see more of the realities of Elizabeth’s cruel bargain to get the weight of it - we only really get our Anatomical Venuses on page after 60-65%.
However when there was a whiff of SAPPHIC?? Oh, it made it hit so much harder. I would have loved there to be more between these characters, between Eleanor and Emily, but I found their story to be heart rending for its tragedy. When women are not free in their bodies, we love them to at least be free in their hearts - but this is a story of being caged at all angles.
At it’s heart, this is a story of wronged women, of exploitation, of the violence done to women by men, and other women, but it is also story of love, of perseverance, of reclaiming our selves when we have so long been denied autonomy. It is an exploration of how women’s sexuality and bodies are so irregularly not a commodity, to be bargain and sold, bartered and stolen, but that finding your person is often well worth the wait.
Thank you to MTMC Tours for the review copy! All thoughts are my own
October 10, 2025
Described as a gothic, feminist body-horror tale, Slashed Beauties threads together two timelines, each haunted by desire, power, and revenge. At its centre are the Anatomical Venuses, hyper-realistic wax figures of women, crafted to teach men about the female body, yet whispered to be cursed, vengeful, and dangerous.
In 18th-century London, Eleanor and Emily are drawn into the glittering, perilous world of Elizabeth, a courtesan whose beauty commands both awe and fear. Centuries later, antique dealer Alys hunts her own elusive Venus, a figure capable of sowing chaos and bending hearts. Across time, these women’s lives ripple toward one another, bound by the strange and intoxicating power of the Venuses.
The historical timeline, with Eleanor, Emily, and Elizabeth, feels particularly vivid and alive, while the modern storyline offers a quieter reflection on guilt, grief, and how the past refuses to stay buried. The relationships between these women are tender, fierce, and sometimes dangerous, exploring the complexity of female connection, ambition, and betrayal.
The novel’s slow-burning tension and layered dual timelines create a dreamlike, unsettling atmosphere. It’s not traditionally gothic; instead, it’s a historical fantasy with a pulse of horror, where dread builds quietly until it strikes with emotional force. The concept of the Anatomical Venuses is both macabre and captivating, grounding the story in historical realism while remaining uncanny and surreal.
Slashed Beauties isn’t just a horror story; it’s a meditation on womanhood, power, and creation, balancing brutality with beauty and horror with tenderness. It lingers long after the last page, a haunting and unforgettable read.
In 18th-century London, Eleanor and Emily are drawn into the glittering, perilous world of Elizabeth, a courtesan whose beauty commands both awe and fear. Centuries later, antique dealer Alys hunts her own elusive Venus, a figure capable of sowing chaos and bending hearts. Across time, these women’s lives ripple toward one another, bound by the strange and intoxicating power of the Venuses.
The historical timeline, with Eleanor, Emily, and Elizabeth, feels particularly vivid and alive, while the modern storyline offers a quieter reflection on guilt, grief, and how the past refuses to stay buried. The relationships between these women are tender, fierce, and sometimes dangerous, exploring the complexity of female connection, ambition, and betrayal.
The novel’s slow-burning tension and layered dual timelines create a dreamlike, unsettling atmosphere. It’s not traditionally gothic; instead, it’s a historical fantasy with a pulse of horror, where dread builds quietly until it strikes with emotional force. The concept of the Anatomical Venuses is both macabre and captivating, grounding the story in historical realism while remaining uncanny and surreal.
Slashed Beauties isn’t just a horror story; it’s a meditation on womanhood, power, and creation, balancing brutality with beauty and horror with tenderness. It lingers long after the last page, a haunting and unforgettable read.
September 16, 2025
This is certainly an interesting read with a strong focus on what it was like to be a woman in Georgian England. I just wish there was a bit more female rage in it.
The story is told in two perspectives. Alys leads the story in modern times. She's an antique dealer, trying to get her hands on the remaining Anatomical Venus. She has a mysterious connection to these models that have been crafted in the eighteenth century to make medical students more interested in anatomy but that are rumoured to come alive to murder those same students.
The second perspective is shown to us through the eyes of Eleanor, one of three sex workers in the eighteenth century London on whom the Anatomical Venus were modeled.
This story takes us through many twists and turns, and while the mystery isn't exactly unpredictable it's still enjoyable to discover little secrets along the way. I think the book certainly focuses on the historical aspects more than I expected and while it was completely fascinating, it felt like it was delaying the main plot. Like the author was so enamoured with being able to portray Georgian London that they forgot their story in it all.
It's hard to talk about this book while trying to avoid major spoilers. I'll say that I was kind of disappointed with the way the Anatomical Venus was created. It felt like another way to take agency away from these women, and I just wished they would have a little more fun with getting revenge on the men who wronged them.
Still it's certainly a unique story, with a fascinating insight into the historical lives of sex workers.
Thanks to A. Rushby and VERVE books for the advance copy of this book.
The story is told in two perspectives. Alys leads the story in modern times. She's an antique dealer, trying to get her hands on the remaining Anatomical Venus. She has a mysterious connection to these models that have been crafted in the eighteenth century to make medical students more interested in anatomy but that are rumoured to come alive to murder those same students.
The second perspective is shown to us through the eyes of Eleanor, one of three sex workers in the eighteenth century London on whom the Anatomical Venus were modeled.
This story takes us through many twists and turns, and while the mystery isn't exactly unpredictable it's still enjoyable to discover little secrets along the way. I think the book certainly focuses on the historical aspects more than I expected and while it was completely fascinating, it felt like it was delaying the main plot. Like the author was so enamoured with being able to portray Georgian London that they forgot their story in it all.
It's hard to talk about this book while trying to avoid major spoilers. I'll say that I was kind of disappointed with the way the Anatomical Venus was created. It felt like another way to take agency away from these women, and I just wished they would have a little more fun with getting revenge on the men who wronged them.
Still it's certainly a unique story, with a fascinating insight into the historical lives of sex workers.
Thanks to A. Rushby and VERVE books for the advance copy of this book.
November 19, 2025
I rate this a 4.5 stars, but round it up!
Massive thank you to A. Rushby for my copy of her book!
I went into this blind and I was taken back by how much I kept thinking about this book while trying to work 😂
The feminine rage, the tension between Elenaor and Emily and me literally wanting to kill Elizabeth the whole time was a pure vibe!
I had inklings during the book about the twist but it still floored me!
This historical fiction, feminine rage, dark and slightly magical book was such a great way for me to break up my normal reads and honestly I cannot wait for more from A. Rushby!
Massive thank you to A. Rushby for my copy of her book!
I went into this blind and I was taken back by how much I kept thinking about this book while trying to work 😂
The feminine rage, the tension between Elenaor and Emily and me literally wanting to kill Elizabeth the whole time was a pure vibe!
I had inklings during the book about the twist but it still floored me!
This historical fiction, feminine rage, dark and slightly magical book was such a great way for me to break up my normal reads and honestly I cannot wait for more from A. Rushby!
December 10, 2025
ARC || I thoroughly enjoyed Slashed Beauties (although to say that it’s a horror is a long shot, definitely more of a fantasy). I liked Eleanor and Emily and their dynamic was sweet and beautiful. I thought the whole thing with the wax figures / the spells were cool. The ending was seamlessly interwoven with everything else that happened in the end. The only thing that was confusing at first was the changing POVs, since I listened to it on audio. Overall, I had a good time with this and hope I can read more like it in the future.
September 28, 2025
Overall entertaining but I didn't become truly invested until half way through when the story picked up paced. Character development and world building were executed well, and I liked the writing style.
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