Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned

This collection features stories of disarray and humor, showcasing characters like troubled families, lost entrepreneurs, and confused individuals navigating contemporary life, all told through Wells Tower's compelling and vivid prose.

Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned by Wells Tower presents a collection of stories that explore the complexities of modern life through a lens of dark humor and poignant realism. Tower's writing is characterized by its authentic American vernacular, capturing the nuances of everyday experiences with a blend of violence, comedy, and beauty. Each narrative delves into the lives of characters who are often on the fringes of society, grappling with their identities and the chaos that surrounds them.

The stories feature a diverse cast, including a man who finds himself homeless after a simple domestic dispute, teenage cousins confronting their realities in the woods, and a boy seeking solace at a carnival after a violent altercation with his stepfather. These characters navigate their struggles in a world that feels increasingly fragmented, reflecting the challenges of contemporary masculinity and the disarray of familial relationships. Tower's ability to portray the absurdity of life while maintaining a sense of empathy for his characters adds depth to the collection.

Through a combination of sharp prose and insightful commentary, Tower crafts narratives that resonate with readers, capturing the essence of human experience. Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned is a striking debut that invites readers to reflect on the messiness of life, the bonds of family, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Each story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of despair.