Steven Sherrill crafts narratives that push boundaries, a spirit evident since his early days when a story earned him a school suspension. His literary voice is characterized by a playful yet profound engagement with language, exploring themes of identity and the clash between tradition and modernity. Sherrill's work often weaves together humor and introspection, demonstrating a unique ability to connect with readers through unexpected stylistic choices. His prose and poetry are celebrated for their originality and distinctive approach to storytelling.
In this sequel, the Minotaur, M, now lives in a Civil War re-enactment park in Pennsylvania, facing isolation and loneliness. Supported by the immigrant Gupta family, he seeks love and understanding. The arrival of Holly and her troubled brother offers hope, leading M to pursue a genuine human connection.
Set in a decaying town during the post-industrial era, the narrative explores the Augenbaugh family's struggles amid the clash of wealth and poverty. Abigail clings to apocalyptic beliefs, fearing for her son’s fate as the Rapture approaches. Meanwhile, Burns retreats to the basement, haunted by his past in Iraq and lost in medication. Their ten-year-old son, Willie, grapples with the emotional turmoil of his parents, battling the demons that threaten their fragile reality. The story delves into themes of despair, faith, and the impact of trauma on family dynamics.
Benny Poteat is the only witness to a young woman's suicide. Should he go to the police? Or keep the biggest secret he has ever had all to himself? When Benny decides to find out who the woman was, what starts as a blackly humorous tale peopled by misfits and loners, gradually descends into darkness and obsession.
Five thousand years on - and the Minotaur, or M as he is known to his colleagues, is working as a line chef at Grub's Rib in Carolina, keeping to himself, keeping his horns down, trying in vain to put his past behind him.