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A review by micksland
Don't Fear the Reaper by Stephen Graham Jones
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I enjoyed this book even more than its prequel, "My Heart is a Chainsaw". In this second entry in a horror trilogy, protagonist Jade Daniels arrives back in town at the same time as a convicted serial killer. Conveniently, a blizzard cuts off contact with the outside world and the characters are left to fend for themselves. Blood and gore ensue, with all of the kills being modeled after famous deaths from slasher films. But is there more going on than a simple slasher tale?
This book is perfect for fans of the genre, and those who have seen films such as "Friday the 13th", "It Follows", and "Happy Death Day" will get even more enjoyment out of the work. (Also, all of the chapters are titled after famous horror films!) For those who are not a fan of horror movies, a lot of the popular culture references probably wouldn't make sense. However, the references are significantly more mature than in the first book. (I can't tell if this is a result of Jones growing as an author or if he has always been a master, and it's his way of showing that Jade is now a young woman instead of an irritating teenager. Probably the latter!)
It's got some cheesy and overly coincidental bits, just like any true slasher film. If you go in expecting Stephen King, you may not enjoy it. If you go in expecting Wes Craven and Sam Raimi vibes, you'll have a great time!
This book is perfect for fans of the genre, and those who have seen films such as "Friday the 13th", "It Follows", and "Happy Death Day" will get even more enjoyment out of the work. (Also, all of the chapters are titled after famous horror films!) For those who are not a fan of horror movies, a lot of the popular culture references probably wouldn't make sense. However, the references are significantly more mature than in the first book. (I can't tell if this is a result of Jones growing as an author or if he has always been a master, and it's his way of showing that Jade is now a young woman instead of an irritating teenager. Probably the latter!)
It's got some cheesy and overly coincidental bits, just like any true slasher film. If you go in expecting Stephen King, you may not enjoy it. If you go in expecting Wes Craven and Sam Raimi vibes, you'll have a great time!