Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Forest of Shadows - Hunter Shea

Rating: 8 out of 10



I admit that I was sketchy at first when I read the premise, I was not too convinced I was going to buy this book. But after watching the author on his podcast 'Monster Men' with fellow author and pal Jack Campinsi, I felt like I could trust Hunter to deliver a good book. And trust me, Hunter delivers.

I feel that this novel is similar to an old car. It has a few kinks and it is slow to start, but then this novel takes off and drives you to the end like a dream.

First, Hunter crafts a web of characters and events. It takes some time to stew, not a whole lot of action, but I think it all adds meat to the story. It helps the story become not just another ghost story. Instead its a non-traditional family in a unique situation facing a town with a dark secret; oh and then there are some ghosts as well. I was skeptical at first, wondering if all of this characterization was necessary, but its the characters that help make this book stand out. I find the book akin to the movie 'Poltergeist'. Its not just about the ghosts, but about the strength of family.

The only reason why I did not give this book 5 stars is because the novel features a lot of explanation on paranormal hunting and ghost-hunting science. From watching the podcasts of 'Monster Men', I can guess that Hunter is a just a huge dork when it comes to this topic. So when the main character becomes a paranormal investigator, I can see Hunter Shea leaking onto the pages.

I find the topic interesting, but I also found that some of the explanations on the science of paranormal investigation made the flow of the story stumble.

All in all, a great surprise and a great book. I recommend reading this book in a silent house. It will have your spine tingling and have you wondering if you are truly alone in the house.

No comments:

Post a Comment