Weird Fiction: A Genre Study offers a thorough analysis of weird fiction, exploring its narrative sources and the nature of the "weird." Michael Cisco applies theories from Deleuze and Guattari to analyze genre dynamics and the interplay between identity and the ordinary, while also addressing its sociopolitical implications.
Michael Cisco Book order
Michael Cisco is an American author who delves into the disquieting and darker aspects of fiction. His work explores the nature of confusion and its impact on the human psyche, often employing unsettling imagery and a profound, eerie atmosphere. Cisco masterfully manipulates genre elements to craft distinctive and thought-provoking reading experiences. His writing pulls you into uncertain and mysterious worlds that leave a lasting impression.






- 2022
- 2016
The Wretch of the Sun
- 274 pages
- 10 hours of reading
The narrative evokes a haunting exploration of existence, likening it to a ghost's reflection in a mirror—both absent and overwhelming. It captures the chaotic journey between worlds, resembling an unstoppable freight train that traverses the unknown, leaving readers questioning its destination. The imagery suggests a deep dive into themes of identity, absence, and the interplay between life and the afterlife, creating a thought-provoking experience.
- 2015
The Narrator
- 456 pages
- 16 hours of reading
Michael Cisco showcases his unique writing style in this standout work, presenting a narrative that sets him apart from contemporary authors. The book highlights his distinctive voice and imaginative storytelling, inviting readers into a compelling and original literary experience.
- 2015
Animal Money
- 788 pages
- 28 hours of reading
In a world where money has taken on a sentient form, society begins to collapse as this living currency disrupts the established order. Characters navigate the chaos wrought by this new reality, exploring themes of value, power, and the consequences of materialism. As relationships and economies are tested, the struggle to reclaim control over their lives and redefine what wealth truly means becomes paramount. The narrative delves into the implications of a world where money is no longer just a tool but an active participant in human affairs.
- 2007
The Traitor
- 152 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Cisco (The Tyrant) ups the ante for provocative dark fantasy by giving this coming-of-age tale a subtle metaphysical edge. While still a boy, sensitive Nophtha realizes that he's uncommonly empathetic and able to see the world from the perspective of others. Tutored by his uncle, Nophtha apprentices as an itinerant spirit eater, or someone who absorbs lingering ghosts that congest the surrounding atmosphere and converts their essence into formidable healing powers. One day, Nophtha crosses paths with his alter ego, Wite, a soul burner who hopes to evolve to a higher level of being by gorging himself on the souls of the living. Under his sway, Nophtha is compelled to evaluate whether he and Wite are that different in nature, and to assess his feelings about family and community. Cisco writes in a reflective style that masks his narrative's virtual absence of a plot. Though discursive and sometimes repetitive, the story still moves toward its conclusion with a momentum borne of the author's meditative prose and aphoristic expressions.
- 2006
Secret Hours
- 156 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Featuring a blend of horror and dark fantasy, this collection showcases the talents of award-winning author Michael Cisco. It includes several stories inspired by H.P. Lovecraft, delving into the Cthulhu Mythos. The anthology is enhanced by striking cover and interior artwork from acclaimed artists, making it visually appealing. An introduction by Lovecraftian scholar Robert M. Price adds depth, providing context and insight into Cisco's work and the themes explored within these chilling tales.
- 2004
The San Veneficio Canon
- 248 pages
- 9 hours of reading
In a quest to reconstruct the Lost Catalog of Unknown Words, a resurrected Divinity Student navigates the eerie desert city of San Veneficio. As he delves into the minds of the dead, he sacrifices his sanity for a mysterious mission, becoming increasingly detached from reality. His journey transforms him into a being caught between worlds, neither alive nor dead, filled with arcane knowledge and preserved in a grotesque state. The narrative explores themes of obsession, the fragility of sanity, and the haunting consequences of knowledge.
- 2003
The Tyrant
- 252 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Michael Cisco's latest novel showcases his unique storytelling style, blending elements of horror and psychological depth. Known for his award-winning debut, Cisco explores themes of fear, identity, and the human psyche, drawing readers into a chilling narrative. The book promises to deliver a captivating experience for fans of the genre, featuring intricate character development and a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the last page.