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Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Soap City by Gary C. McAuley is a quirky and wild novel set in a fictional small town in Oregon, where nothing ever seems normal—and that’s the fun of it. The story follows the eccentric Van Halen family and a mix of colorful town characters caught up in all kinds of odd situations: fake jackalope podcasts, secret liquor deals, missing persons, and strange town traditions like the Mosquito Festival. The town is full of gossip, drama, and hilarious chaos, all wrapped up in a legal fight over a mysterious will. There are also schemes involving big corporations, religious communes, and a local newspaper editor trying to get to the truth. Through strange events and sharp humor, the story shows how a small town can hide a lot of secrets.
Gary C. McAuley's writing is clever, fast-paced, and filled with humor. The author has a talent for creating unique characters with unforgettable voices—from the bumbling cousins chasing donuts to the nosy reporter trying to keep up with the madness. The plot moves quickly, often jumping from one absurd situation to another, but it all fits together entertainingly and creatively. I especially enjoyed the playful tone and the way the story pokes fun at politics, family life, and small-town weirdness. At times, it reminded me of a Coen Brothers movie—smart, odd, and funny. I liked how it didn’t take itself too seriously. If you enjoy smart, character-driven stories with a humorous edge, Soap City is worth a read.
