Part mystery and part urban fantasy (with nary a hint of paranormal romance to be found), this is a book that I found lagged a little, but which was ultimately satisfying. The main characters were likable and well-rounded, and the secondary characters jumped off the page as well, which was a pleasant surprise. Like I say, the pacing was a little slow, but it picks up when it has to, with a race to the final climactic battle.
Cassidy's psychic sensitivity to haunted objects was probably my favorite aspect of the novel, with the historical scenes of death and despair rendered vividly. Paired with the current hauntings, they create an classic ghost story feel in much of the novel. It's almost a shame that Martin had to take the story to a larger scale with the entrance of an actual demon into out realm, but it's nice to see evil confronted personally on such an epic scale. It's a story that wavers from light humor to exceptional darkness, but it's never cute/quaint or vulgar/obscene.
Familiar, accessible, and enjoyable, Deadly Curiosities is the kind of book to have serious crossover appeal for urban fantasy and horror readers alike.
Paperback, 464 pages
Expected publication: June 24th 2014 by Solaris
I seem to recall that show! Haha, now that you mention it, there are parallels. Man, I haven't thought about it in ages, and your review brought it all back.
ReplyDelete~Mogsy