David Bridges
In a fascinating twist on the classic alien invasion narrative, the story unfolds with a character who boldly reveals her extraordinary truth. Anastasia, affectionately known as Stasia Miller, is not your typical protagonist. She is an infiltrator from a race of plant-like aliens who arrived on Earth as a seed and subsequently commandeered the body of a 3-year-old girl named Anastasia. This remarkable premise, introduced by Mira Grant in her captivating novel Overgrowth, sets the stage for a unique blend of science fiction and horror. Stasia’s unapologetic admission about her true identity often leaves others skeptical, allowing her to navigate life with a semblance of normalcy. As she grows up, her quirky personality shines through, marked by a fascination with the cult classic Little Shop of Horrors, a few loyal friends, a loving partner, and her cherished pet cat, Seymour. This portrayal reminds readers that even aliens have relatable experiences and emotions.
The narrative takes a thrilling turn when a scientist inadvertently detects a signal from extraterrestrial origins, prompting Stasia to recognize it as the harbinger of a long-anticipated full-scale invasion. This pivotal moment in Overgrowth catapults the story into a gripping sci-fi horror adventure, interspersed with moments of humor and levity. The author adeptly weaves a tale that captivates from the very first page, creating a compelling reading experience that spans nearly 500 pages. I found myself completely engrossed in the plot, eager to uncover what would happen next as I journeyed alongside Stasia in her extraordinary life.
Daniel Mercer
