Review: 4 1/2 Stars from "Red Adept Reviews"
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 15, 2011
Plot/Storyline/Characters: 4 StarsThis story opened with a bang and drew me in to the point that I didn't want to put it down until I was finished. Though a novella, it was still a bit long to read in one sitting, but I still wanted to.The set-up was interesting with a criminal as the main character. James Straley is not your average protagonist. Somehow, I disliked him, yet felt sorry for him at the same time. As a matter of fact, my dislike actually grew throughout the first half of the story. As the story progressed, he did become more likeable, showing some real emotional and psychological growth. However, I did feel that the "growth" went a bit too quickly for the permanence implied.I wasn't thrilled with the ending. Although it reminded me a little of King's "Thinner," it went a little too far south into the realm of the unbelievable for me. While there was a twist at the end, it did not have enough buildup, leaving me feeling a bit cheated.While somewhat uncertain of the underlying moral, assuming there was one, I still felt the story had a deep psychological tone.Writing Style: 5 StarsThis novella contained the wonderfully tight, yet lyrical, writing I have come to expect from Mr. Wood. With a style perfect for the horror genre, Mr. Wood uses his time-tested techniques to ratchet up the suspense.  The descriptions were bold and filled with gruesome imagery when warranted. The dialogue was realistic and snappy.I received this book as a free Review Copy from the author or publisher.