Olivia J. Bennett
author | editor | artist
Eighteen-year-old Hendrix Williams is a self-diagnosed sociopath and aspiring serial killer, and his biggest nuisance is his fellow coworker and almost-friend, Michelle “Arden” Campbell. The night after their high school graduation, Arden shows up at Hendrix’s door and demands they escape their dismal, small-town life.
While Arden is just looking for someone who might finally understand her, Hendrix views this impromptu road trip as the perfect opportunity to find his first human victim. But Arden’s brutal honesty and adventurous spirit only drives Hendrix closer and closer to madness.
Navigating through a world that has rejected both of them, the two alienated teens crash in motel rooms, meet fellow travelers both intimidating and heartfelt, and keep secrets from each other that will rip their lives apart.
"I know where I want to go . . . If only someone thought of giving me a roadmap."
available now!
SIGNED COPIES
Trope Highlights
For fans of . . .
Books: Paper Towns, Amy & Rodger's Epic Detour, When I Am Through With You
TV Shows & Movies: The End of the F***ing World, Wayne, Moonrise Kingdom, Rain Man
Genre
Road Trip Thriller
Casually Homicidal blends elements of a heartfelt YA contemporary with a gory thriller.
Content warnings
Upper YA — 14+
Animal death, emotional and physical abuse, language, underage drinking, smoking, and discussions of heavy topics like mental illness, abandonment, and self-harm.
Did you know?
Copies ordered on my website come signed and personalized and include your choice of an Arden or Hendrix bookmark!
Love books & candles?
Check out custom Arden Campbell soy candles made by
Irene & Faith Store!
Praise for
“With a daring premise and striking, staccato prose, Casually Homicidal takes you away on an adventure like no other. Bennett’s sophomore novel puts its finger on the pulse of what it means to love, to hate, to lose, to bleed, to fight, to suffer, to live. With fearsome heights and dramatic lows, Casually Homicidal is a bloody story that’s sure to leave you breathless.”
—Brian McBride, award-winning author of The Mammoth Adventures
“Casually Homicidal is a true glance into the most raw and real of human emotions through the lens of two equally broken and beautiful people. Olivia’s writing captivates from the first page: this is a thrilling read that you do not want to miss.”
—Maddyson Wilson, author of Don't Blame the Reckless
“Casually Homicidal is a visceral, honest, and evocative look into the somber lives of characters that feel real. Olivia expertly crafts the suspense throughout, using atmosphere to her advantage in order to heighten the tension. At times heartfelt and others unsettling, one thing is certain: This is one road trip you will not forget.”
—McCaid Paul, author of The Summersville Series
“An adventure, literally as well as metaphorically, showcasing the vast impact of our relationships and our own perceptions of the world. Rich in its emotional depth, gruesomely raw on the page, and unforgettable with its powerful message, Casually Homicidal will leave you breathless, offering important reflection on what it means to endure pain, then heal.”
—Brittney Kristina, author of Fifty Days & Hummingbird Tales
“With raw and unflinching prose, Bennett takes you on a compelling journey of the human experience. Casually Homicidal is a thrilling narrative that will keep you turning until the last page.”
—Kayla N. Jones, author of Set Me Free & Mourning Doves