Set against a backdrop of societal chaos, the story follows a woman trapped within a violent religious order. As she navigates the oppressive environment, themes of isolation and survival emerge, creating a gripping narrative that blends literary elements with horror. The novel explores the psychological and emotional turmoil of its protagonist, offering a chilling reflection on faith and fanaticism.
Working at the local processing plant, Marcos is in the business of slaughtering humans—though no one calls them that anymore. His wife has left him, his father is sinking into dementia, and Marcos tries not to think too hard about how he makes a living. After all, it happened so quickly. First, it was reported that an infectious virus has made all animal meat poisonous to humans. Then governments initiated the “Transition.” Now, eating human meat—“special meat”—is legal. Marcos tries to stick to numbers, consignments, processing. Then one day he’s given a gift: a live specimen of the finest quality. Though he’s aware that any form of personal contact is forbidden on pain of death, little by little he starts to treat her like a human being. And soon, he becomes tortured by what has been lost—and what might still be saved.
On hearing her neighbour's body plummet on to her patio, a woman's comfortable life seems to split open. A cab driver's perfectly manicured nails may be concealing grisly secrets. A woman whose partner has left her begins to act out an increasingly deranged set of instructions.In these tense, macabre stories, acclaimed author Agustina Bazterrica strikes to the dark heart of our desires, fears and fantasies. Shocking, brutal, yet glinting with sharp humour, Nineteen Claws and a Black Bird is a breathtaking, unforgettable dive into human monstrousness.
Agustina Bazterrica schildert in "Die Nichtswürdigen" die düstere Realität nach einer Klimakatastrophe. In einem ehemaligen Kloster lebt eine junge Frau in einer gewaltsamen Gemeinschaft, wo Gehorsam über Leben und Tod entscheidet. Eine neue Schwester bringt sie dazu, die strengen Regeln zu hinterfragen und neue Wege der Fürsorge und Zärtlichkeit zu entdecken.