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Future Skinny
For fans of Chuck Palahniuk, Joe Lansdale, Philip K. Dick, and Breaking Bad...this wholly original story of an anorexic man who sees the future by binge-eating is full of twists few readers, if any, will see coming.
“How will the world know you?”
Casey is a devoutly anorexic man who discovers he can see the future by binge-eating. The plan? Read futures for cash and make enough money to start a better life with his new girlfriend, Lylian, and her five-year old daughter. Oh, and stay thin at all costs while doing it.
While testing the limits of this new power, Casey ignores a vision of Lylian committing a grisly murder. When that crime ends up happening, the two have no choice but to turn to Lylian’s estranged husband, a dangerous West Texas gunrunner named David, for his help in cleaning up the mess she's made.
In exchange for his help, Casey agrees to become David's personal psychic. But is that David's only motivation for bringing Casey and Lylian back into the fold of his criminal enterprise?
Future Skinny is a neo-noir psychological thriller about power, love, family, and the dark deeds we thought we’d never carry out in order to have, keep, and even create the life we believe we deserve.
“How will the world know you?”
Casey is a devoutly anorexic man who discovers he can see the future by binge-eating. The plan? Read futures for cash and make enough money to start a better life with his new girlfriend, Lylian, and her five-year old daughter. Oh, and stay thin at all costs while doing it.
While testing the limits of this new power, Casey ignores a vision of Lylian committing a grisly murder. When that crime ends up happening, the two have no choice but to turn to Lylian’s estranged husband, a dangerous West Texas gunrunner named David, for his help in cleaning up the mess she's made.
In exchange for his help, Casey agrees to become David's personal psychic. But is that David's only motivation for bringing Casey and Lylian back into the fold of his criminal enterprise?
Future Skinny is a neo-noir psychological thriller about power, love, family, and the dark deeds we thought we’d never carry out in order to have, keep, and even create the life we believe we deserve.
224 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2022
16 people are currently reading
12547 people want to read
About the author
Peter Rosch
8 books163 followersPeter Rosch is the author of What The Dead Can Do, Future Skinny, But I Love You, and My Dead Friend Sarah, and other dark fictions, many born from the addictions he chased while living in New York City. He’s sober now but remains an addict’s addict: he can turn anything fun into a serious problem.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
February 26, 2022
A nice new idea for a change! Very creative and entertaining.
This is the story of Casey, an anorexic, bulimic who can tell the future only when he binge eats. That is the hook, but the story is more about greed, love and family. From the first page to the twisty ending, this thriller held my attention in a tight grip!
This is the story of Casey, an anorexic, bulimic who can tell the future only when he binge eats. That is the hook, but the story is more about greed, love and family. From the first page to the twisty ending, this thriller held my attention in a tight grip!
May 9, 2022
I’m an absolute chronic NetGalley browser, to the point that I don’t even want to discuss my ratio of open to reviewed books (if you have that 80% rate let me know how you do it, because that’s some god-tier dedication.)
So when I came across the synopsis for Future Skinny I had to tell my friend Tali about it, because if anyone was going to read it it would be us.
I think that trigger warnings are a helpful tool for some readers, but personally I find them to sometimes spoil elements of the story for me. That doesn’t mean I don’t think they should exist, but maybe in a spot that is accessible for people who need it, and easy to skip past for those who don’t.
If you read the synopsis you’ll immediately find out this novella is about an eating disorder that leads to future visions. That is either going to fascinate you or horrify you.
I worried reading it that the novella wasn’t going to be able to sustain the premise, but it’s told through multiple timelines, and interjects some interview style chapters. There is a lot of gross out binge eating and purging sequences that are vividly told.
The highlight though is the twist at the end, which is truly mind blowing and expertly done.
So while I don’t think I can recommend this one to most people, I haven’t read anything else like this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Art Cult Books for an ARC of this title.
So when I came across the synopsis for Future Skinny I had to tell my friend Tali about it, because if anyone was going to read it it would be us.
I think that trigger warnings are a helpful tool for some readers, but personally I find them to sometimes spoil elements of the story for me. That doesn’t mean I don’t think they should exist, but maybe in a spot that is accessible for people who need it, and easy to skip past for those who don’t.
If you read the synopsis you’ll immediately find out this novella is about an eating disorder that leads to future visions. That is either going to fascinate you or horrify you.
I worried reading it that the novella wasn’t going to be able to sustain the premise, but it’s told through multiple timelines, and interjects some interview style chapters. There is a lot of gross out binge eating and purging sequences that are vividly told.
The highlight though is the twist at the end, which is truly mind blowing and expertly done.
So while I don’t think I can recommend this one to most people, I haven’t read anything else like this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Art Cult Books for an ARC of this title.
May 27, 2022
I went into Future Skinny by Peter Rosch not really sure what I was getting myself into. The concept was very different than anything I’d ever read. Main character Casey Banks is an anorexic man who can see the future by binge eating. Very different, right?! I’m excited to report this really blew me away. Especially the ending. But I’m getting way ahead of myself here.
First of all, I found the issues surrounding Body Dysmorphia and control issues around eating very well written. I’m not someone who’s ever struggled with anorexia but my relationship with food hasn’t always been healthy, and seeing these types of things portrayed well in a novel like this was very good to see. Do note the trigger warnings though, in case this is a sensitive subject for you.
This is on the short side and packs a major punch. With plenty of twists, I was kept on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put this down. I loved the psychic aspect and I really enjoyed Casey as he learned about his abilities and went through this plot.
Overall, Future Skinny is a fantastic read. I don’t know what I expected, but what I got was an incredible novel! Highly recommended!
Thank you to R&R Book Tours for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
First of all, I found the issues surrounding Body Dysmorphia and control issues around eating very well written. I’m not someone who’s ever struggled with anorexia but my relationship with food hasn’t always been healthy, and seeing these types of things portrayed well in a novel like this was very good to see. Do note the trigger warnings though, in case this is a sensitive subject for you.
This is on the short side and packs a major punch. With plenty of twists, I was kept on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put this down. I loved the psychic aspect and I really enjoyed Casey as he learned about his abilities and went through this plot.
Overall, Future Skinny is a fantastic read. I don’t know what I expected, but what I got was an incredible novel! Highly recommended!
Thank you to R&R Book Tours for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
March 21, 2022
Big thanks to Netgalley and Art Cult Books for approving my request for this book.
It took me a while to finish this book. I found the story very intriguing, a man who can see the future while binge-eating. Definitely something unique!
But, it wasn't giving me the vibes I was hoping for. I didn't always get it and struggled with some parts, like the chapters with the interviews. It took me too long to connect the puzzle pieces. It wasn't bad, but if it doesn't call me while doing something else and it's not gripping me fully while reading, it's a 3-star for me.
It took me a while to finish this book. I found the story very intriguing, a man who can see the future while binge-eating. Definitely something unique!
But, it wasn't giving me the vibes I was hoping for. I didn't always get it and struggled with some parts, like the chapters with the interviews. It took me too long to connect the puzzle pieces. It wasn't bad, but if it doesn't call me while doing something else and it's not gripping me fully while reading, it's a 3-star for me.
June 4, 2022
Disappointing. I expected to see what happened to the people Casey does readings for. That doesn't happen. There's actually very few readings described in the book. The story is mostly about Casey and his girlfriend going back and forth between the 'good guys' and the 'bad guys'. It's more a book about someone with a binge/purge disorder than reading the future. A good premise wasted.
May 7, 2022
Trigger Warnings: Eating disorders, body image, Anorexia and Bulimia.
“Future Skinny”, by Peter Rosch, is a unique story about Casey who has Anorexia and Bulimia. What makes Casey so special? He tells the future when he binge eats. “Future Skinny” is about a man who embraces his eating disorder. and uses it to save his wife and child.
The book is setup differently. The first half of each story was a narrative. Then the second half was an interview between Casey and his therapist. The interviews were a great addition to the book. They gave the reader back story into Casey’s psyche.
The writing on this book was highly descriptive. Even when the reader stumbles along gruesome scenes, It is hard to stop reading. Rosch was able to keep the plot moving at a considerable pace. The ending brought the whole story full circle. I had one of those jaw dropping “Aha” moments which really sealed the story
May 2, 2022
Ok look. I was fully prepared to rate Peter Rosch's Future Skinny like 3.5 out of 5 stars UNTIL THAT ENDING. Goddamn it was good! But, like someone who can see the future, I'm getting a little bit ahead of myself.
I should probably say up front that I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It came with a signed post-it from the author with a very nice message thanking me for my interest in his book. This in no way impacted my rating and review. I'm brutally honest about books and that will never change, no matter how nice the author seems to be.
Let's start with what this book is about. Future Skinny is about Casey, an anorexic/bulimic man who can see the future when he binge eats. And that's all you need to know before you jump in.
One of my favorite things about this book is how it throws you into the story and leaves you to sink or swim. I love it when authors trust the reader to make sense of what is happening without the need to over-explain every little, ultimately unimportant, detail. I don't think there is one single sentence of unnecessary exposition in Future Skinny and I appreciate that a lot. Not everyone will, but I liked being thrown into the middle of Casey's story. I'm a firm believer that some questions are better left unanswered.
I've found that sometimes I prefer to wonder about what could be instead of being disappointed about what was.
I also really liked that Future Skinny felt like an episode of The X-Files. In particular, it reminded me of an episode titled "Hungry" (S7E3). This one is unique in that it doesn't follow Mulder and Skully, but is, instead, told from the perspective a brain eating burger flipper who's dealing with an unwanted condition that he's trying his damnedest to control. And like Casey in Future Skinny, he's not really doing a good job of controlling his condition, which in turn negatively impacts his life, decisions, identity, and path to a brighter future. Because isn't that what we are all striving toward; a better future?
The opening scene the reader is thrown into is one where Casey is doing "a reading", which is what he calls it when he binge eats to initiate a vision of the future. It's both beautifully vivid and beautifully gross. I mean, it didn't bother me because I like disgusting things, but it will bother some people. Instead of leaving me repulsed, it actually pulled me in to the story. I was so intrigued!
That being said, the last thing I loved about this book is that the writing here is really well done. Peter Rosch can fucking write and I'm excited to see with what he puts out next. Rosch's style is very well crafted, and not in a formulaic or manufactured way. His sentences are succinctly beautiful and I found myself re-reading many of them.
Unfortunately (or fortunately if, like me, you enjoy critical voices) the time has come for me to discuss what I didn't like about this book.
Future Skinny switches back and forth between present tense actions scenes and past tense interview scenes that consist of the dialogue between Casey and the interviewer. I'd say the book is like 50/50 of each of these things. And I just can't help but wish that more happened in the present tense action scenes. I enjoyed the way information was revealed in the interviews, but I really wished more things happened in this narrative. Rosch's writing is so good and Casey is such an interesting character, I wanted to spend more time with him.
Also, the last couple of chapters of Future Skinny were an absolute drag. I remember thinking, "is this really where we are going??" and, "is this really how this book is going to end???" And yeah, I was wrong and the answer to those questions was "no". The end justified the means and the story redeemed itself with the ending, but that doesn't change the fact that reading those ending chapters was just not fun. Until that last page when the ending slapped me in the face, I was indescribably disappointed.
And I guess this goes back to me wanting more things to happen in this story. It's very short and, like I said, I really wanted to spend more time with Casey.
In the end, I rated Peter Rosch's Future Skinny 4.5 out of 5 stars, which I rounded up because I do what I want. Future Skinny is a fast-paced, somewhat bonkers, and absolutely wild ride. It hits a few snags towards the end, but nails the ending dead-center. I loved it.
You might like this if you like: The X-Files, tight narratives, and well-crafted writing.
I should probably say up front that I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It came with a signed post-it from the author with a very nice message thanking me for my interest in his book. This in no way impacted my rating and review. I'm brutally honest about books and that will never change, no matter how nice the author seems to be.
Let's start with what this book is about. Future Skinny is about Casey, an anorexic/bulimic man who can see the future when he binge eats. And that's all you need to know before you jump in.
One of my favorite things about this book is how it throws you into the story and leaves you to sink or swim. I love it when authors trust the reader to make sense of what is happening without the need to over-explain every little, ultimately unimportant, detail. I don't think there is one single sentence of unnecessary exposition in Future Skinny and I appreciate that a lot. Not everyone will, but I liked being thrown into the middle of Casey's story. I'm a firm believer that some questions are better left unanswered.
I've found that sometimes I prefer to wonder about what could be instead of being disappointed about what was.
I also really liked that Future Skinny felt like an episode of The X-Files. In particular, it reminded me of an episode titled "Hungry" (S7E3). This one is unique in that it doesn't follow Mulder and Skully, but is, instead, told from the perspective a brain eating burger flipper who's dealing with an unwanted condition that he's trying his damnedest to control. And like Casey in Future Skinny, he's not really doing a good job of controlling his condition, which in turn negatively impacts his life, decisions, identity, and path to a brighter future. Because isn't that what we are all striving toward; a better future?
IN: What are you really running from, do you think?
CB: A better question would be, what am I running toward. (p. 173)
The opening scene the reader is thrown into is one where Casey is doing "a reading", which is what he calls it when he binge eats to initiate a vision of the future. It's both beautifully vivid and beautifully gross. I mean, it didn't bother me because I like disgusting things, but it will bother some people. Instead of leaving me repulsed, it actually pulled me in to the story. I was so intrigued!
That being said, the last thing I loved about this book is that the writing here is really well done. Peter Rosch can fucking write and I'm excited to see with what he puts out next. Rosch's style is very well crafted, and not in a formulaic or manufactured way. His sentences are succinctly beautiful and I found myself re-reading many of them.
Unfortunately (or fortunately if, like me, you enjoy critical voices) the time has come for me to discuss what I didn't like about this book.
Future Skinny switches back and forth between present tense actions scenes and past tense interview scenes that consist of the dialogue between Casey and the interviewer. I'd say the book is like 50/50 of each of these things. And I just can't help but wish that more happened in the present tense action scenes. I enjoyed the way information was revealed in the interviews, but I really wished more things happened in this narrative. Rosch's writing is so good and Casey is such an interesting character, I wanted to spend more time with him.
Also, the last couple of chapters of Future Skinny were an absolute drag. I remember thinking, "is this really where we are going??" and, "is this really how this book is going to end???" And yeah, I was wrong and the answer to those questions was "no". The end justified the means and the story redeemed itself with the ending, but that doesn't change the fact that reading those ending chapters was just not fun. Until that last page when the ending slapped me in the face, I was indescribably disappointed.
And I guess this goes back to me wanting more things to happen in this story. It's very short and, like I said, I really wanted to spend more time with Casey.
In the end, I rated Peter Rosch's Future Skinny 4.5 out of 5 stars, which I rounded up because I do what I want. Future Skinny is a fast-paced, somewhat bonkers, and absolutely wild ride. It hits a few snags towards the end, but nails the ending dead-center. I loved it.
You might like this if you like: The X-Files, tight narratives, and well-crafted writing.
May 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this story! Future Skinny by Peter Rosch is a unique, quick read that is hard to categorize. I would say it is mostly a thriller, but it has just a bit of horror flair that I love.
Casey is an anorexic man who finds out he can see the future when he binge eats. All hell breaks loose when he has a premonition of his girlfriend committing a murder and Casey gets involved with dangerous people who want to exploit his gifts.
I’m a sucker for stories about psychics, and I loved the themes of destiny and fate in the context of premonitions. If Casey knows the future, can he change it? Or can he only witness a fixed timeline? Readers also get an interesting glimpse into the psyche of a person with an eating disorder and the internal torture they can go through. I found the portrayal of body dysmorphia and control issues around eating really relatable and there was something personally validating about seeing these issues in print. This story is a gripping mix of real-world and supernatural fiction that’s not quite like anything I’ve read before. In just over 200 pages, Future Skinny manages to pack a lot of punch with interesting twists! I can’t say a lot more about the plot without spoilers, but this is a fast-paced, low-commitment story that is well worth the read!
Thank you so much to Peter Rosch, the publisher, and LibraryThing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Some trigger warnings: eating disorders, mention of child abuse, violence, murder, gore
Casey is an anorexic man who finds out he can see the future when he binge eats. All hell breaks loose when he has a premonition of his girlfriend committing a murder and Casey gets involved with dangerous people who want to exploit his gifts.
I’m a sucker for stories about psychics, and I loved the themes of destiny and fate in the context of premonitions. If Casey knows the future, can he change it? Or can he only witness a fixed timeline? Readers also get an interesting glimpse into the psyche of a person with an eating disorder and the internal torture they can go through. I found the portrayal of body dysmorphia and control issues around eating really relatable and there was something personally validating about seeing these issues in print. This story is a gripping mix of real-world and supernatural fiction that’s not quite like anything I’ve read before. In just over 200 pages, Future Skinny manages to pack a lot of punch with interesting twists! I can’t say a lot more about the plot without spoilers, but this is a fast-paced, low-commitment story that is well worth the read!
Thank you so much to Peter Rosch, the publisher, and LibraryThing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Some trigger warnings: eating disorders, mention of child abuse, violence, murder, gore
May 20, 2022
When I first read the synopsis on bookstagrammers.com, I thought wow. Just wow. A story revolving around someone who can see through the future is a common thing. But as all books I’ve read that have “magic” in it, I know there has to be a catch. Those catches could be anything under the sun but for an author to think about making an eating disorder as a payment in exchange to seeing the future, that’s just genius. I’ve only read a few thrillers but I could say that this one does not disappoint. It touches on the concepts of family, relationships, and trust. It tugs at my senses, which helps me immerse myself into the story. I might have found some descriptions disgusting or gory but that’s the point. It means the description is effective and makes the reader coexistent in the story. While reading, I can’t help but pity Casey, I have mixed feelings about Lilian and I definitely hate both Cooper and David. The twist at the end shocked me then unshocked me. I’m really hopeful about the ending. 😉
March 1, 2022
I have enjoyed Peter Rosch's writing in all three of his books that I have read. He reminds me a bit of Palaniuk in his style and the stories feel like movies in the style of Fight Club, etc.
I believe Rosch puts a lot of himself in his novels, and in that way you get to know him through the characters. He's obviously seen some shit and now we get to read his fantasy versions of the more than likely true tales he could tell us over a soda or a slice of pie.
Future Skinny is a bit... weird, but as usual for Rosch, so, so good. Casey (main character) can read your fortune after he binges on truly gluttonous meals, but he's also bulimic, so better listen up if you want your future told before he pukes up his sight-seeing fuel. The story follows Casey and his girl who are being exploited and taunted by their pursuer. Each chapter bounces back and forth between the happenings of this chase to Casey's time in something of a "rehab" discussing his eating disorder and the events that led him there. This breaks the book up in a way that makes you say, "oh, I'll just read one more rehab chapter," and then, "well now I gotta know what he was talking about!" until you've finished the thing in a couple days tops.
Anyway, I do recommend. This one could be Rosch's first book turned screenplay. I don't know why, but I pictured Cillian Murphy as Casey as I was reading. Anybody got his number?
I was given an advanced reader copy by the publisher for a fair and honest review.
I believe Rosch puts a lot of himself in his novels, and in that way you get to know him through the characters. He's obviously seen some shit and now we get to read his fantasy versions of the more than likely true tales he could tell us over a soda or a slice of pie.
Future Skinny is a bit... weird, but as usual for Rosch, so, so good. Casey (main character) can read your fortune after he binges on truly gluttonous meals, but he's also bulimic, so better listen up if you want your future told before he pukes up his sight-seeing fuel. The story follows Casey and his girl who are being exploited and taunted by their pursuer. Each chapter bounces back and forth between the happenings of this chase to Casey's time in something of a "rehab" discussing his eating disorder and the events that led him there. This breaks the book up in a way that makes you say, "oh, I'll just read one more rehab chapter," and then, "well now I gotta know what he was talking about!" until you've finished the thing in a couple days tops.
Anyway, I do recommend. This one could be Rosch's first book turned screenplay. I don't know why, but I pictured Cillian Murphy as Casey as I was reading. Anybody got his number?
I was given an advanced reader copy by the publisher for a fair and honest review.
May 6, 2022
Let me begin by saying that I won a paperback version of this book through Library thing. I don't read pbs often, but this one literally felt good in my hands. The size and all that jazz fit the story perfect. I read a lot of indie stuff, and I ve read some that the pb just didn't work. The margins on this one were great.
Onto the story
Binge eating to read the future is a very creative idea. When I began, I thought I was missing something. As the reader, we're just thrown into a story trying to make sense and piece things together. That, coupled with jumping from the past to the present, left me scratching my head at times.
The writing is great, and once I got over the interview portions (you'd have to read this to understand) the story was actually good with a great ending
Onto the story
Binge eating to read the future is a very creative idea. When I began, I thought I was missing something. As the reader, we're just thrown into a story trying to make sense and piece things together. That, coupled with jumping from the past to the present, left me scratching my head at times.
The writing is great, and once I got over the interview portions (you'd have to read this to understand) the story was actually good with a great ending
January 5, 2024
I THINK I can see what this book was going for, but the writing tried too hard and the plot was a bit scattered.
There were so many parts of the story that we just never got. While there are many discussions about the “seeing”, we’re always on the outside and hearing about the aftermath of it. That may’ve been the point since the main focus was his eating disorders, but with this set up, it felt like a missed opportunity. I left the book knowing almost the same amount about his power and life as I did going in. It’s a mashup of therapy sessions, descriptions of food, and random violence. I liked some of the interview portion’s banter, but they felt like info dumps.
I was hoping the end would give an answer or reason, or reveal something we didn’t see coming. It didn’t.
There were so many parts of the story that we just never got. While there are many discussions about the “seeing”, we’re always on the outside and hearing about the aftermath of it. That may’ve been the point since the main focus was his eating disorders, but with this set up, it felt like a missed opportunity. I left the book knowing almost the same amount about his power and life as I did going in. It’s a mashup of therapy sessions, descriptions of food, and random violence. I liked some of the interview portion’s banter, but they felt like info dumps.
I was hoping the end would give an answer or reason, or reveal something we didn’t see coming. It didn’t.
Read
January 6, 2024I don’t think I can say enough good things about Future Skinny. Casey is an anorexic man who can see the future through binge eating. He uses his gift to buy a better life for him and those he loves, but finds himself at the mercy of those who seek to control him.
Future Skinny is a story about what we inherit both literally and emotionally from our parents and our past, and our ability to shape our future despite the hooks planted deep in our person.
Future Skinny is a story about what we inherit both literally and emotionally from our parents and our past, and our ability to shape our future despite the hooks planted deep in our person.
December 16, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The main character was intriguing and the plot twists just kept coming. The main character named Casey draws you in and you can’t help but cheer him on. I’m looking forward to the author’s next book and who knows maybe a Casey update.
January 7, 2025
Certainly one of the books I’ve read
June 18, 2022
Future Skinny was definitely something different. A main character with the ironic combination of anorexia and food-calorie-powered precognitive abilities but very little control over his own life (and, of course, a few ruthless others who want to control and use him).
The integration of the character's anorexia/precog/bulimia state seemed well thought through and well described, although there are points where not everyone is going to want the description. (Warning: Detailed descriptions of a rapid gorge-feast meant to fuel a precog reading may not be for everyone.) The writing overall I thought was rather good, descriptive, and still easy to follow.
The story itself was arguably a bit thin, and the two-timeline style (the narrative and the prior interview transcripts) could be a little confusing to follow at times, specifically how the two related, or even which was before which for awhile there. And the final-scene ending struck me as odd: promising that it ain't over without really resolving anything, and a bit unclear what was going on during (which I think may have been partially intentional, but IMO should have been clearer by the end).
My rating is based on that mix: good original concept, good writing, awkward two-timeline usage, limited incomplete story. Overall, I kinda liked it, at least enough to wish that it went deeper and farther with the story.
The integration of the character's anorexia/precog/bulimia state seemed well thought through and well described, although there are points where not everyone is going to want the description. (Warning: Detailed descriptions of a rapid gorge-feast meant to fuel a precog reading may not be for everyone.) The writing overall I thought was rather good, descriptive, and still easy to follow.
The story itself was arguably a bit thin, and the two-timeline style (the narrative and the prior interview transcripts) could be a little confusing to follow at times, specifically how the two related, or even which was before which for awhile there. And the final-scene ending struck me as odd: promising that it ain't over without really resolving anything, and a bit unclear what was going on during (which I think may have been partially intentional, but IMO should have been clearer by the end).
My rating is based on that mix: good original concept, good writing, awkward two-timeline usage, limited incomplete story. Overall, I kinda liked it, at least enough to wish that it went deeper and farther with the story.
April 10, 2022
(TW // graphic depictions of ED’s, specifically of anorexia and bulimia, body image, and violence)
thank you to NetGalley and Art Cult Books for the chance to read snd review this book early! i was given an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
this…was kind of a mess. everything felt overdramatic and underdeveloped, and frankly, i had no idea what was going on for the majority of this book. it threw the reader into the thick of it without explaining enough or having any introduction to anything. it just starts right in the middle of the main conflict.
i was also expecting this to be a bit more dystopian possibly, but it was more so just slightly fantastical and sci-fi blended into an atmosphere of realism. the writing itself isnt bad, but it didnt save the story from being half-baked.
i also had a problem with how gruesomely detailed some of the ED scenes were. they made me nauseous and i can see this book being VERY triggering to some people, which is to be expected from a book about a man who binge eats to predict the future i guess.
but like…the reasons the main character (who starts as anorexic) is becoming bulimic are SUPER flawed and kinda dangerous.
idk. none of this worked for me, but im still appreciative that i got to read it early.
thank you to NetGalley and Art Cult Books for the chance to read snd review this book early! i was given an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
this…was kind of a mess. everything felt overdramatic and underdeveloped, and frankly, i had no idea what was going on for the majority of this book. it threw the reader into the thick of it without explaining enough or having any introduction to anything. it just starts right in the middle of the main conflict.
i was also expecting this to be a bit more dystopian possibly, but it was more so just slightly fantastical and sci-fi blended into an atmosphere of realism. the writing itself isnt bad, but it didnt save the story from being half-baked.
i also had a problem with how gruesomely detailed some of the ED scenes were. they made me nauseous and i can see this book being VERY triggering to some people, which is to be expected from a book about a man who binge eats to predict the future i guess.
but like…the reasons the main character (who starts as anorexic) is becoming bulimic are SUPER flawed and kinda dangerous.
idk. none of this worked for me, but im still appreciative that i got to read it early.
September 18, 2022
Future Skinny
By Peter Rosch
Genre - Fiction/Psychological Terror
Pages - 224
Format - Print (Soft Cover)
Publication Information -Better Word, LLC, May 24, 2022, ISBN-13: 979-8985473902
Overall Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reviewed by William C. Bitner Jr. (https://booksinmylibraryblog.wordpres...)
Okay! Right! What did I just read? Peter Rosch seems to have the ability to turn the absurd and unusual into reality. The concept here was very strange and original, but at the same time after reading it, it seems to make perfect sense. So, never underestimate a book based on a concept you think would never work.
All I can say is expect the unexpected. A few pages in this book did one very important thing, it screamed out to be read from first to last page in one sitting. (This is starting to be a thing with me…I’ve read the last two books in one sitting. Either I’m getting better at book selection, or I just got that lucky.) Words placed so elegantly and with a master wordsmith's skills can quickly turn a page of symbols and characters into a beautiful work of art. The pages just came to life one chapter after the other with beautifully crafted narrative throughout. For example “Even barefoot, Casey’s lope is animal. He is a marred jack rabbit, tearing around the track’s native hurdles, zigzagging around the natural landmines that emerge from the hardpacked desert floor. Tints of green at the tips of skeletal scrub seemingly bend at his will. But tiny bright pops of color in front of each consecutive step threatens to upend him. The miniature flowers are a ruse. They are like kaleidoscopic hairbows worn to disguise the brutality of thorns and needles on the heads of the cacti that call this stretch home.” Yep, I could read that kind of stuff all day long. I am anxious to read his other works now.
Synopsis: “How will the world know you?”
Casey is a devoutly anorexic man who discovers he can see the future by binge-eating. The plan? Read futures for cash and make enough money to start a better life with his new girlfriend, Lylian, and her five-year old daughter. Oh, and stay thin at all costs while doing it.
While testing the limits of this new power, Casey ignores a vision of Lylian committing a grisly murder. When that crime ends up happening, the two have no choice but to turn to Lylian’s estranged husband, a dangerous West Texas gunrunner named David, for his help in cleaning up the mess she's made.
In exchange for his help, Casey agrees to become David's personal psychic. But is that David's only motivation for bringing Casey and Lylian back into the fold of his criminal enterprise?
Future Skinny is a neo-noir psychological thriller about power, love, family, and the dark deeds we thought we’d never carry out in order to have, keep, and even create the life we believe we deserve.”
Other books by Peter Rosch: My Dead Friend Sarah & But I Love You.
About the Author: Peter Rosch is what happens when a Polish drag-racing varsity bowler and a beautiful, but über paranoid, French Canadian Air Force brat get together on a disco dance floor in glorious Albuquerque, NM. An award-winning writer whose decades in advertising, music, and film introduced him to more than a few bad habits. He hopes it wasn't for naught.
By Peter Rosch
Genre - Fiction/Psychological Terror
Pages - 224
Format - Print (Soft Cover)
Publication Information -Better Word, LLC, May 24, 2022, ISBN-13: 979-8985473902
Overall Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reviewed by William C. Bitner Jr. (https://booksinmylibraryblog.wordpres...)
Okay! Right! What did I just read? Peter Rosch seems to have the ability to turn the absurd and unusual into reality. The concept here was very strange and original, but at the same time after reading it, it seems to make perfect sense. So, never underestimate a book based on a concept you think would never work.
All I can say is expect the unexpected. A few pages in this book did one very important thing, it screamed out to be read from first to last page in one sitting. (This is starting to be a thing with me…I’ve read the last two books in one sitting. Either I’m getting better at book selection, or I just got that lucky.) Words placed so elegantly and with a master wordsmith's skills can quickly turn a page of symbols and characters into a beautiful work of art. The pages just came to life one chapter after the other with beautifully crafted narrative throughout. For example “Even barefoot, Casey’s lope is animal. He is a marred jack rabbit, tearing around the track’s native hurdles, zigzagging around the natural landmines that emerge from the hardpacked desert floor. Tints of green at the tips of skeletal scrub seemingly bend at his will. But tiny bright pops of color in front of each consecutive step threatens to upend him. The miniature flowers are a ruse. They are like kaleidoscopic hairbows worn to disguise the brutality of thorns and needles on the heads of the cacti that call this stretch home.” Yep, I could read that kind of stuff all day long. I am anxious to read his other works now.
Synopsis: “How will the world know you?”
Casey is a devoutly anorexic man who discovers he can see the future by binge-eating. The plan? Read futures for cash and make enough money to start a better life with his new girlfriend, Lylian, and her five-year old daughter. Oh, and stay thin at all costs while doing it.
While testing the limits of this new power, Casey ignores a vision of Lylian committing a grisly murder. When that crime ends up happening, the two have no choice but to turn to Lylian’s estranged husband, a dangerous West Texas gunrunner named David, for his help in cleaning up the mess she's made.
In exchange for his help, Casey agrees to become David's personal psychic. But is that David's only motivation for bringing Casey and Lylian back into the fold of his criminal enterprise?
Future Skinny is a neo-noir psychological thriller about power, love, family, and the dark deeds we thought we’d never carry out in order to have, keep, and even create the life we believe we deserve.”
Other books by Peter Rosch: My Dead Friend Sarah & But I Love You.
About the Author: Peter Rosch is what happens when a Polish drag-racing varsity bowler and a beautiful, but über paranoid, French Canadian Air Force brat get together on a disco dance floor in glorious Albuquerque, NM. An award-winning writer whose decades in advertising, music, and film introduced him to more than a few bad habits. He hopes it wasn't for naught.
September 27, 2022
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and didn't get around to it until long after it had been published. So I was reading the e-arc and completely engrossed because the idea of someone who can tell the future when he binge eats is such an interesting and unique plot. When I became aware of the up to 85% off everything Audible sale, naturally I looked for this book and bought it.
I'm a terrible reviewer, I know. But in my defense, I try to write honest and thoughtful reviews and I end up buying the audio companions to the ones I loved. This is one such book.
As I often do, I listened to the audiobook as I read along. Quick note about the audiobook, this is my first experience with the narrator T.W. Robbert. His reading is crisp and clear and while not overly emotive, it is just enough to accentuate this story perfectly. His vocal shifts between characters is enough to differentiate them but not so dramatic that it's annoying. I know a lot of readers love full cast audiobooks or those whose narrators do elaborate voices, but I just find that distracting. T.W. Robbert has a talent that I can appreciate.
This is the story of an anorexic man who discovers future seeing abilities aided by bulimia, binge eating and purging. Eat to see, see to live. The story is told from the points of view of alternating narrators, one in the moment and one as an interview at an institution. We meet Casey and Lylian in the middle of a reading. Casey is stuffing his face with fervor, trying to cram more and more because he believes that the more he eats, the more he will see. We learn that Casey and Lylian do readings from time to time to make money. Eventually, the criminal element (who happens to be Lyl's ex) gets word of his ability and compels him to work for them, to read for them. As expected, things get complicated and weird and I'm here for it.
If descriptions of body dysmorphia and eating disorders are triggers for you, maybe skip this one. I have no experience with either and can't say if the descriptions are super realistic, but I found this book to be overall well written. The imagery is top notch. I read a lot of extreme horror. Descriptions of blood and gore barely phase me but some of the descriptions of eating and purging scenes are both beautiful and disgusting. As I read, I found myself appreciating the interview sections more and more. I loved getting to dig in Casey's head. And this is a minor thing, but I appreciate the little Texas references scattered throughout. A quick look at Peter Rosch's Goodreads profile shows that this is his first novel in a while. I hope it won't be his last.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star read for me. The story is original and engaging and layered with surprising depth. There are twists and turns throughout that make this one difficult to put down. If you can stomach the eating scenes, you should read this book.
Big thanks to Peter Rosch, Art Cult Books, and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. You can buy Future Skinny, by Peter Rosch on Amazon or read it as part of your Kindle Unlimited subscription. Go on now, read it!
I'm a terrible reviewer, I know. But in my defense, I try to write honest and thoughtful reviews and I end up buying the audio companions to the ones I loved. This is one such book.
As I often do, I listened to the audiobook as I read along. Quick note about the audiobook, this is my first experience with the narrator T.W. Robbert. His reading is crisp and clear and while not overly emotive, it is just enough to accentuate this story perfectly. His vocal shifts between characters is enough to differentiate them but not so dramatic that it's annoying. I know a lot of readers love full cast audiobooks or those whose narrators do elaborate voices, but I just find that distracting. T.W. Robbert has a talent that I can appreciate.
This is the story of an anorexic man who discovers future seeing abilities aided by bulimia, binge eating and purging. Eat to see, see to live. The story is told from the points of view of alternating narrators, one in the moment and one as an interview at an institution. We meet Casey and Lylian in the middle of a reading. Casey is stuffing his face with fervor, trying to cram more and more because he believes that the more he eats, the more he will see. We learn that Casey and Lylian do readings from time to time to make money. Eventually, the criminal element (who happens to be Lyl's ex) gets word of his ability and compels him to work for them, to read for them. As expected, things get complicated and weird and I'm here for it.
If descriptions of body dysmorphia and eating disorders are triggers for you, maybe skip this one. I have no experience with either and can't say if the descriptions are super realistic, but I found this book to be overall well written. The imagery is top notch. I read a lot of extreme horror. Descriptions of blood and gore barely phase me but some of the descriptions of eating and purging scenes are both beautiful and disgusting. As I read, I found myself appreciating the interview sections more and more. I loved getting to dig in Casey's head. And this is a minor thing, but I appreciate the little Texas references scattered throughout. A quick look at Peter Rosch's Goodreads profile shows that this is his first novel in a while. I hope it won't be his last.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star read for me. The story is original and engaging and layered with surprising depth. There are twists and turns throughout that make this one difficult to put down. If you can stomach the eating scenes, you should read this book.
Big thanks to Peter Rosch, Art Cult Books, and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. You can buy Future Skinny, by Peter Rosch on Amazon or read it as part of your Kindle Unlimited subscription. Go on now, read it!
April 29, 2022
[ARC from Discovery]
This was a promising book, from the title to the first half of the novel. Hats off to the author for creating such an out-of-the-box concept - binge-eating to foresee the future.
But be warned. While I rated this worth-reading, it isn't for everyone. Casey's ability involves purging what he consumes, which I found to be both disturbing and brilliant. Some readers would find this too vivid an image or concept; it could even be downright disgusting.
The inciting incident was solidly crafted. From the point when Casey goes on the run, alongside his supposed lover Lylian, I was compelled to keep going. I had to know what would happen to a man, whose fortune-telling ability isn't just disgusting but detrimental as well, when he's pursued by not one, but two, "predators".
I wasn't a fan of the format of this book, though. An interview transcript is placed in every other chapter. This was intriguing at first as it emitted psychological thriller vibes. Through the exchange of words between Casey and the interviewer at a special facility, Casey's nonchalant, cynical and almost hopeless demeanor was painted in vivid colours, bringing his character to life. Unfortunately, retaining this format intervals right to the end was a mistake, for me at least. I found it very distracting to swap from a regular long-form chapter to an interview transcript. It would have been a better effect had the positions of these transcripts been unpredictable. At one point, I was no longer interested in the interviews; I just didn't get anything new from them besides cynical banters.
Revisiting my opening words about this novel, the strength of Future Skinny lies in Casey's otherworldly ability and his demeanor. There's something disturbing about him which makes the read somewhat worthwhile. That, coupled with the ending, offset my frustrations about the structure of the novel.
I'd recommend this to those seeking something non-mainstream and wouldn't mind a little unsettling vibes. If you love action scenes, this has some of it and they were pretty well executed. The author's writing style cast vivid pictures for such scenes.
This was a promising book, from the title to the first half of the novel. Hats off to the author for creating such an out-of-the-box concept - binge-eating to foresee the future.
But be warned. While I rated this worth-reading, it isn't for everyone. Casey's ability involves purging what he consumes, which I found to be both disturbing and brilliant. Some readers would find this too vivid an image or concept; it could even be downright disgusting.
The inciting incident was solidly crafted. From the point when Casey goes on the run, alongside his supposed lover Lylian, I was compelled to keep going. I had to know what would happen to a man, whose fortune-telling ability isn't just disgusting but detrimental as well, when he's pursued by not one, but two, "predators".
I wasn't a fan of the format of this book, though. An interview transcript is placed in every other chapter. This was intriguing at first as it emitted psychological thriller vibes. Through the exchange of words between Casey and the interviewer at a special facility, Casey's nonchalant, cynical and almost hopeless demeanor was painted in vivid colours, bringing his character to life. Unfortunately, retaining this format intervals right to the end was a mistake, for me at least. I found it very distracting to swap from a regular long-form chapter to an interview transcript. It would have been a better effect had the positions of these transcripts been unpredictable. At one point, I was no longer interested in the interviews; I just didn't get anything new from them besides cynical banters.
Revisiting my opening words about this novel, the strength of Future Skinny lies in Casey's otherworldly ability and his demeanor. There's something disturbing about him which makes the read somewhat worthwhile. That, coupled with the ending, offset my frustrations about the structure of the novel.
I'd recommend this to those seeking something non-mainstream and wouldn't mind a little unsettling vibes. If you love action scenes, this has some of it and they were pretty well executed. The author's writing style cast vivid pictures for such scenes.
May 19, 2022
Eat to see, see to live. That's Casey's life. You see, (haha get it) Casey has anorexia and Bulimia..but those are what enables his visions. That's right, Casey can see into the future...but only when he binges.
This being the base of the story, added in is thriller, mystery, bits of gruesomeness too.
I really enjoyed Peter Rosch's writing. Throughout the book, the explanation is just enough to let the reader kind of think for themselves. As much as I love when everything is a super tight knit story, it can become tiresome.
There are parts where its necessary for you to connect the dots yourself sometimes, and its really refreshing. I'm not talking like MASSIVE gaps in the timeline, just ones where it's obvious what has happened in the story.
The idea of the story is just so unique. I love psychic stuff, and that's why I chose to read this. Casey is basically held hostage by his own power, throughout the story he NEEDS to be able to see what's going to happen, for him, for others. So essentially has to carry on binging to have visions, even when sometimes its obvious he may want change in his life.
The chapters go back and forth from an 'ordinary' chapter, to an interview style chapter. I really enjoyed the interview style chapters, as these really give an insight into Casey. I really felt they helped to immerse me more into the story, and gave a personal feel too.
There are these one liners at the start of every 'ordinary' chapter, and for some reason I'm not sure of, I just LOVED them? I guess they are there to set up for the chapter and that's exactly what they do, but I think the way they are worded.., I just REALLY liked them.
THE FUCKING ENDING. An absolutely solid ending I loved it so much. In fact I actually read the last chapter twice, I needed to get my head around what was happening in all honesty and I didn't see it coming!!
Future Skinny is a brilliant read. Something for the people who are looking for a fast paced, uniquely written book, with mystery and gruesome elements running through it. The writing is fabulous, strong and makes it so easy.
This being the base of the story, added in is thriller, mystery, bits of gruesomeness too.
I really enjoyed Peter Rosch's writing. Throughout the book, the explanation is just enough to let the reader kind of think for themselves. As much as I love when everything is a super tight knit story, it can become tiresome.
There are parts where its necessary for you to connect the dots yourself sometimes, and its really refreshing. I'm not talking like MASSIVE gaps in the timeline, just ones where it's obvious what has happened in the story.
The idea of the story is just so unique. I love psychic stuff, and that's why I chose to read this. Casey is basically held hostage by his own power, throughout the story he NEEDS to be able to see what's going to happen, for him, for others. So essentially has to carry on binging to have visions, even when sometimes its obvious he may want change in his life.
The chapters go back and forth from an 'ordinary' chapter, to an interview style chapter. I really enjoyed the interview style chapters, as these really give an insight into Casey. I really felt they helped to immerse me more into the story, and gave a personal feel too.
There are these one liners at the start of every 'ordinary' chapter, and for some reason I'm not sure of, I just LOVED them? I guess they are there to set up for the chapter and that's exactly what they do, but I think the way they are worded.., I just REALLY liked them.
THE FUCKING ENDING. An absolutely solid ending I loved it so much. In fact I actually read the last chapter twice, I needed to get my head around what was happening in all honesty and I didn't see it coming!!
Future Skinny is a brilliant read. Something for the people who are looking for a fast paced, uniquely written book, with mystery and gruesome elements running through it. The writing is fabulous, strong and makes it so easy.
October 30, 2024
I received this book in a giveaway. Thank you for the copy!
Ok, maybe I need to reread this, or maybe I’m missing something, because I wasn’t a huge fan of this.
The book says it’s about a man who can read someone’s fortune and predict their future. The description also implies that a big conflict in the book is the aftermath of his girlfriend killing a man. The book isn't really about either of these things. He does a couple of readings, but we don’t get a description of what those visions are like or what he sees, and the murder is barely mentioned and doesn’t seem to have an impact on the overall story. Honestly, it felt like the book was half Casey and Lylian on the run from something, half some info dump therapy session with an unnamed interviewer.
The story jumps back and forth between multiple timelines, which isn’t bad, but it was confusing to follow at times. It wasn’t entirely clear where in the story the scenes were taking place or which timeline came first. So much information was told in the interview portions (that were formatted as scripts), while the other portion was them running somewhere, or hiding from something, or arguing with someone.
Also: the secret behind Casey’s powers didn’t need to be explained, so my issue isn’t with that. But I didn’t feel like any part of this story was very well developed. The plotline, or the characters and their relationships with one another. I finished the story knowing pretty much the same amount I knew before reading the story: Casey has an eating disorder but needs to eat to read the future, and they have conflict with his girlfriend’s ex-husband.
This book is not badly written. It does a good job of setting the scene, creating eerie vibes, and making vivid and disturbing descriptions. I think this is an interesting concept, and it had the potential to be good, but it didn’t really meet any of my expectations.
2.5/5
Ok, maybe I need to reread this, or maybe I’m missing something, because I wasn’t a huge fan of this.
The book says it’s about a man who can read someone’s fortune and predict their future. The description also implies that a big conflict in the book is the aftermath of his girlfriend killing a man. The book isn't really about either of these things. He does a couple of readings, but we don’t get a description of what those visions are like or what he sees, and the murder is barely mentioned and doesn’t seem to have an impact on the overall story. Honestly, it felt like the book was half Casey and Lylian on the run from something, half some info dump therapy session with an unnamed interviewer.
The story jumps back and forth between multiple timelines, which isn’t bad, but it was confusing to follow at times. It wasn’t entirely clear where in the story the scenes were taking place or which timeline came first. So much information was told in the interview portions (that were formatted as scripts), while the other portion was them running somewhere, or hiding from something, or arguing with someone.
Also: the secret behind Casey’s powers didn’t need to be explained, so my issue isn’t with that. But I didn’t feel like any part of this story was very well developed. The plotline, or the characters and their relationships with one another. I finished the story knowing pretty much the same amount I knew before reading the story: Casey has an eating disorder but needs to eat to read the future, and they have conflict with his girlfriend’s ex-husband.
This book is not badly written. It does a good job of setting the scene, creating eerie vibes, and making vivid and disturbing descriptions. I think this is an interesting concept, and it had the potential to be good, but it didn’t really meet any of my expectations.
2.5/5
August 22, 2022
I loved the idea of the story but it did fall a little flat for me. Overall, I didn’t feel like this was that much of a “guy sees the future” (which caught my eye in the blurb) because even though the idea of readings and what they entail was brought up many times, Casey didn’t do many readings and the reader never got the readee’s reactions afterward. It was more of them going back and forth in the timelines, interviewing with the supposed good guys, or fighting to get free from the back guys, when in reality, Casey was always with the bad guys.
The narrator did a pretty good job. I'd listen to him again. Thankfully, he was able to do a decent female voice.
Comments/Questions:
The interviewer’s revelation that Casey had a harder time seeing visions when he threw up was a surprise to me. Although that didn’t really make sense to me given Casey threw up after the vision, usually. Right? I mean, he’d either have a vision or not, then throw up. I’m wondering if the confusion was because of the timeline issue I had. I was confused as to which was taking place first/present, the place where the interviews were happening, or Casey and Lilian’s time with Connor/David. I thought I figured it out until Connor’s death and the next chapter (I think) had the interviewer asking Casey about Connor finding him, then I was still confused.
What was the point of doing the “redacted” regarding the interviewer’s name but then pointing out her name was Candace near the end? Yet, strangely (unless it’s because of my continued confusion), Casey didn’t seem to know who she was.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The narrator did a pretty good job. I'd listen to him again. Thankfully, he was able to do a decent female voice.
Comments/Questions:
The interviewer’s revelation that Casey had a harder time seeing visions when he threw up was a surprise to me. Although that didn’t really make sense to me given Casey threw up after the vision, usually. Right? I mean, he’d either have a vision or not, then throw up. I’m wondering if the confusion was because of the timeline issue I had. I was confused as to which was taking place first/present, the place where the interviews were happening, or Casey and Lilian’s time with Connor/David. I thought I figured it out until Connor’s death and the next chapter (I think) had the interviewer asking Casey about Connor finding him, then I was still confused.
What was the point of doing the “redacted” regarding the interviewer’s name but then pointing out her name was Candace near the end? Yet, strangely (unless it’s because of my continued confusion), Casey didn’t seem to know who she was.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2023
Future Skinny by Peter Rosch is a masterful piece of literature that will leave readers speechless. A refreshing change in the machine of today’s publishing world. Rosch's ability to weave a complex and engaging tale using a truly unique story structure is nothing short of genius. From the very first page, readers are drawn into the world of Casey, a man battling anorexia who discovers he can see the future by binge-eating.
Rosch's writing is poetic. His descriptions are one of a kind. You could call it repugnant but it’s absolutely beautiful, with a modern tone that feels fresh and relevant. His use of words is masterful, drawing readers into his world, and making them feel like they're right there, experiencing everything firsthand.
Perhaps most impressive of all, however, is the way Rosch has tackled such weighty topics as addiction, love, and what we’ll do for family in a way that feels honest without taking itself too seriously. Future Skinny is a book that will make readers think, challenging them to examine their own story in a way that is both compelling and thought-provoking.
In short, Future Skinny is an absolute masterpiece, a stunning work of literature that showcases Rosch's incredible talent and skill as a writer. It is a book that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page, a testament to the power of storytelling and the beauty of the written word. If you haven't read it yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up today. You won't be disappointed.
Rosch's writing is poetic. His descriptions are one of a kind. You could call it repugnant but it’s absolutely beautiful, with a modern tone that feels fresh and relevant. His use of words is masterful, drawing readers into his world, and making them feel like they're right there, experiencing everything firsthand.
Perhaps most impressive of all, however, is the way Rosch has tackled such weighty topics as addiction, love, and what we’ll do for family in a way that feels honest without taking itself too seriously. Future Skinny is a book that will make readers think, challenging them to examine their own story in a way that is both compelling and thought-provoking.
In short, Future Skinny is an absolute masterpiece, a stunning work of literature that showcases Rosch's incredible talent and skill as a writer. It is a book that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page, a testament to the power of storytelling and the beauty of the written word. If you haven't read it yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up today. You won't be disappointed.
March 28, 2022
Inhale like you mean it and you can smell the sin.
Author Peter Rosch will make you feel sick.
This has a really unique set up:
Caught between a pair of powerful crime families is Casey, a rail thin young man with a gift. He has discovered that binge eating and purging gives him the ability to see into the future. With Lylian, the woman he loves, Casey is going to exploit this gift to get as much cash as he can. They’re on the run from David, her dangerous ex, and tangled up in an impending war between crime families.
In greasy motels, Casey is doing readings for the cash that will get them their fairy tale ending.
Unfortunately for them some people have heard of his gift and they want to use it for their own gain.
If you’re anything like me your stomach will turn reading this book. The sights, sounds and smells are expertly delivered. The plot is twisty and moves fairly quickly, perhaps slowed down by the interviews. Casey and then Lylian are interviewed in what I had assumed was some sort of clandestine government facility determined to find out the “how’s” of Casey’s gift.
But nothing in this book is what it seems.
It’s a David Fincher meets John Waters story of how far love can take you, but it’s also the story of what people will do for power.
Now if you’ll excuse me. I’ve gotta throw up.
Author Peter Rosch will make you feel sick.
This has a really unique set up:
Caught between a pair of powerful crime families is Casey, a rail thin young man with a gift. He has discovered that binge eating and purging gives him the ability to see into the future. With Lylian, the woman he loves, Casey is going to exploit this gift to get as much cash as he can. They’re on the run from David, her dangerous ex, and tangled up in an impending war between crime families.
In greasy motels, Casey is doing readings for the cash that will get them their fairy tale ending.
Unfortunately for them some people have heard of his gift and they want to use it for their own gain.
If you’re anything like me your stomach will turn reading this book. The sights, sounds and smells are expertly delivered. The plot is twisty and moves fairly quickly, perhaps slowed down by the interviews. Casey and then Lylian are interviewed in what I had assumed was some sort of clandestine government facility determined to find out the “how’s” of Casey’s gift.
But nothing in this book is what it seems.
It’s a David Fincher meets John Waters story of how far love can take you, but it’s also the story of what people will do for power.
Now if you’ll excuse me. I’ve gotta throw up.
April 26, 2022
Warnings for Future Skinny: ED, language, violence, and SH.
This is the first book I have read in the thriller genre. I enjoyed it more than I was anticipating. I was confused at the beginning about the timeline with switching between an interview and the narration following Casey, the main character. Once I was able to understand that the narration took place after the interviews I enjoyed the jumping and felt it helped create the pacing and tension. This helped keep my attention and made the book unique and thrilling.
I appreciated how the storyline never shied away from the topic of ED and the effects it has on the person and their interactions with life and others.
I think Future Skinny is a good book. I read the whole thing, which for someone with ADHD means something. I wanted to know where everything was going and how it would end. For me, I felt the storyline had some stutter steps that I had to reread and interrupted the flow. I personally am not a fan of numerous foul language. I understand how the choice of words fit the situation and characters, but I wanted other tells into the gravity of what was occurring. I wanted other indications into the personalities of each person.
This is the first book I have read in the thriller genre. I enjoyed it more than I was anticipating. I was confused at the beginning about the timeline with switching between an interview and the narration following Casey, the main character. Once I was able to understand that the narration took place after the interviews I enjoyed the jumping and felt it helped create the pacing and tension. This helped keep my attention and made the book unique and thrilling.
I appreciated how the storyline never shied away from the topic of ED and the effects it has on the person and their interactions with life and others.
I think Future Skinny is a good book. I read the whole thing, which for someone with ADHD means something. I wanted to know where everything was going and how it would end. For me, I felt the storyline had some stutter steps that I had to reread and interrupted the flow. I personally am not a fan of numerous foul language. I understand how the choice of words fit the situation and characters, but I wanted other tells into the gravity of what was occurring. I wanted other indications into the personalities of each person.
May 23, 2022
I love smart fiction and Future Skinny truly makes you think!
Casey Banks has mommy issues.
And daddy issues.
And relationship issues.
And if those aren’t enough, Casey also has TWO eating disorders—Anorexia and Bulimia… by choice.
None of these make him special, but his ability to see into the future does. The catch is he can only do it after gorging himself on food. He doesn’t want to gain the weight caused by his food-fests, so enter eating disorders. But to be honest, Casey suffered from body dysmorphia long before he discovered his gift.
He and his partner/”girlfriend” Lylian Ayer, profit off his future-seeing abilities when they can, but they’re always on the run from the bad guys and the not-so-bad guys who also have plans for Casey, and one of them is holding Lylian’s daughter and mother hostage… and has a special secret for Casey.
Excellent writing paired with a unique writing style makes this read a page-turner! Twists and turns lead up to a “what just happened” ending that made me nod and smile.
Kudos to Peter Rosch for an outstanding read!
Enjoy!
Casey Banks has mommy issues.
And daddy issues.
And relationship issues.
And if those aren’t enough, Casey also has TWO eating disorders—Anorexia and Bulimia… by choice.
None of these make him special, but his ability to see into the future does. The catch is he can only do it after gorging himself on food. He doesn’t want to gain the weight caused by his food-fests, so enter eating disorders. But to be honest, Casey suffered from body dysmorphia long before he discovered his gift.
He and his partner/”girlfriend” Lylian Ayer, profit off his future-seeing abilities when they can, but they’re always on the run from the bad guys and the not-so-bad guys who also have plans for Casey, and one of them is holding Lylian’s daughter and mother hostage… and has a special secret for Casey.
Excellent writing paired with a unique writing style makes this read a page-turner! Twists and turns lead up to a “what just happened” ending that made me nod and smile.
Kudos to Peter Rosch for an outstanding read!
Enjoy!
May 24, 2022
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
What an original idea. When I first read the synopsis of this book I thought, “finally, something utterly original!” With such a wild idea the book can only go two ways – really good or really bad.
This book is really good.
The fast pace of this book meant we got a lot of action in only 200 pages. And by 5 pages in I felt a growing attachment to Casey, the main character. The reader really gets immersed in Casey’s world, the wild ride of ups and downs associated with his disordered eating, seeing the future, and the spiraling repercussions of both things. Several times throughout the book I thought I’d figured out how this would all end but was wrong every time (which I loved).
The writing style is great, fast paced, and some of the metaphors describing Casey’s mannerisms were wonderfully ironic and funny.
Considering how the book ended I think I will have to read it a second time with my newfound knowledge, and I expect my perspective to change and allow me to enjoy the book in a new way the second time around.
What an original idea. When I first read the synopsis of this book I thought, “finally, something utterly original!” With such a wild idea the book can only go two ways – really good or really bad.
This book is really good.
The fast pace of this book meant we got a lot of action in only 200 pages. And by 5 pages in I felt a growing attachment to Casey, the main character. The reader really gets immersed in Casey’s world, the wild ride of ups and downs associated with his disordered eating, seeing the future, and the spiraling repercussions of both things. Several times throughout the book I thought I’d figured out how this would all end but was wrong every time (which I loved).
The writing style is great, fast paced, and some of the metaphors describing Casey’s mannerisms were wonderfully ironic and funny.
Considering how the book ended I think I will have to read it a second time with my newfound knowledge, and I expect my perspective to change and allow me to enjoy the book in a new way the second time around.
November 18, 2022
Thanks to Goodreads giveaways and Art Cult Books for the free e-book!
I went into Future Skinny by Peter Rosch knowing the basic premise of the book: a bulimic man tells the future through using his eating disorder. Note this as a trigger warning if this is a sensitive subject for you. The concept was very different than anything I’d ever read. This was well done and the ending was very good!
First of all, I found the emotional, mental and physical issues surrounding bulimia, anorexia, and body dysmorphia very well written. Being a woman, I am more than familiar with a struggling relationship with food. Most women don't have a healthy relationship with food, but seeing a man struggle with the similar effects was really interesting. I have not been able to tell the future through bulimia (lol) but the parallels are accurate.
THere are several sub-plots running through the story. I found this to be a twisty, suspenseful thriller as I followed Casey through his journey. The psychic aspect was well done too.
This is a short read that packs a punch. Highly recommended!
I went into Future Skinny by Peter Rosch knowing the basic premise of the book: a bulimic man tells the future through using his eating disorder. Note this as a trigger warning if this is a sensitive subject for you. The concept was very different than anything I’d ever read. This was well done and the ending was very good!
First of all, I found the emotional, mental and physical issues surrounding bulimia, anorexia, and body dysmorphia very well written. Being a woman, I am more than familiar with a struggling relationship with food. Most women don't have a healthy relationship with food, but seeing a man struggle with the similar effects was really interesting. I have not been able to tell the future through bulimia (lol) but the parallels are accurate.
THere are several sub-plots running through the story. I found this to be a twisty, suspenseful thriller as I followed Casey through his journey. The psychic aspect was well done too.
This is a short read that packs a punch. Highly recommended!
March 16, 2022
Ugh, the descriptors. Rosch is stark, repugnant and ****ing beautiful with his words while still maintaining a casually modern tone. His diction does all the right things for me. I feel like I want to be best friends with the narrator – I feel like we could discover a murder scene together, and he’d slump down into a cheap chair with a fortified beer and make sardonic comments about it all while pulling a face at the stench.
This story wasn't just written, it was crafted.
QUOTES:
- It has never mattered how the pig is slaughtered so long as the bacon tastes good.
- Inhale like you mean it and you can smell the sin.
- If she’s at all bothered by Casey’s latest reinvention, it is chillingly unobvious.
- It turns out humanity has done a bang-up job of keeping most of itself on a pretty predictable hamster wheel.
(I received a free copy of this through NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review)
(Trigger Warnings:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
eating disorders, mention of past child abuse / sexual abuse)
This story wasn't just written, it was crafted.
QUOTES:
- It has never mattered how the pig is slaughtered so long as the bacon tastes good.
- Inhale like you mean it and you can smell the sin.
- If she’s at all bothered by Casey’s latest reinvention, it is chillingly unobvious.
- It turns out humanity has done a bang-up job of keeping most of itself on a pretty predictable hamster wheel.
(I received a free copy of this through NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review)
(Trigger Warnings:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
eating disorders, mention of past child abuse / sexual abuse)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews