Shot through with themes of honor, betrayal, race and sexual identity "Hess' masterful, elegant style weaves these diverse elements into a seamless narrative that touches the heart of what it means to be human." With a new introduction by journalist Ian MacAllen. "A brutal and lyrically gorgeous story of three Irish brothers' during the 1930s as they transgress social and moral norms to satisfy their desires, despite the dire consequences." - John Copenhaver, "At once gritty, poetic, and romantic, Hess' masterful, elegant style weaves these diverse elements into a seamless narrative that touches the heart of what it means to be human." - "This more modern retelling of King Lear brings the kingdom down to the streets, but the heart-wrenching cruelty of fate shows up in the same Shakespearean way...Hess weaves all three of these points of view together under the sweltering heat of Hell's Kitchen in the 1930's. The Butcher's Sons is told with such vibrancy and aroma, you can almost feel the sweat seeping out of your skin." - Luke Goldstein Editors Pick 5 Star Review