Genre: Horror
Review: Welcome to the world of Slim McKenzie, a young man wanted for murder. However, Slim tells you he is saving humanity from monsters that look like humans. If you have ever seen Frailty, they totally ripped their idea straight from this book! Slim is a good guy, despite the fact that in his introduction he tells you he is wanted for murder. Despite the fact that he goes on a killing rampage throughout the book. It is okay, because he is killing goblins. Monsters who appear to the rest of humanity as normal people, but who Slim can see for what they truly are, just beneath the surface. Looking back, this book is part of the reason that I love the T.V. series Supernatural. Same idea! Vigilantism at its finest!
I loved reading this story, but when you sit back and think about it from a real-world perspective, it is even more creepy. As mental illness is on the rise, it is surprising that we have not had a serial killer yet who claims the same. At least, we haven't that we know of. In some people's mind, this book could be viewed as giving permission to kill those that you consider evil monsters, even if in a figurative manner. The symbolism is... disturbing. Yet, I love this story. It feeds on the Zombie fanatic in me. The deep down desire to get rid of Evil in Humanity by putting a monster's face on it so that I have permission. (Don't worry, I am not going to go on a rampage!!) And I think that is the reason that books like these are popular. It gives us that permission to be disgusted and allows us the fantasy of being able to do something about it. Take it to the next level and find the figurative way to "kill" the evil and you have a parable! Love it!
Author: Dean Koontz is a phenomenal writer who has blessed the world with such brilliant works as Shattered, Night Chills, Dark Fall, Watchers, Intensity and Fear Nothing. Having published over forty novels, Mr. Koontz is a master of horror and suspense. He lives in Southern California and works full-time as a writer. To learn more about Dean, visit his website at http://www.deankoontz.com/
Rating: **** Four out of five stars.
