Garden of Evil

"Garden of Evil" by Margaret St. Clair is a science fiction story that travels to the planet Fyhon, where themes of addiction, survival, and cultural clashes come alive. The book focuses on Ericson, a recovering addict under the care of Mnathl, a native of Fyhon, who guides him into the depths of the exotic and beautiful land with the hopes of reaching the city of Dridihad. As they get closer, Ericson learns of a ritual involving the Deidrithes, the inhabitants of Dridihad, and his role in their true desires. The story rises to a chilling climax, where Ericson's expectations are destroyed by the dark realities of the culture he has come to respect. "Garden of Evil" is a look at the intensity of human desire and the frightening things hidden within discovery.