Review: A superb story...
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 12 17, 2011
I can't remember exactly how I ran across this book. I liked the cover and the blurb, and the sample caught me. I bought it immediately.The story starts right off with serious action (which I like). It plants a solid hook in the first few pages. As I continued reading, the story became more and more elaborate. I wanted to know who Lockman was and why he was important. The cast grew larger yet the characters remained unique. The plot was easy to follow, but not too predictable. I was even surprised by a few twists. The ending was great. The plotting and pacing were absolutely fantastic.Cornell paints a vivid backdrop for this story. It's not only important for this tale, but it's also a framework for how the paranormal functions within his world. It's impressively well done; it never feels contrived or manipulated. The way he mashes up various paranormal creatures and concepts is really very creative. I really enjoy when authors take existing concepts and use them in new and unique ways.Cornell also did a fantastic job of leaving just the right kind of loose ends for the sequel. "Darker Things" is complete on its own, but the framework now in place begs for sequels (there is a sequel out now titled "Dark Legion"). I'd even argue that Cornell could write a prequel to this book.I really enjoyed this book. So much so that I'll be picking up the sequel soon. I'm looking forward to it.