More or less disenchanted with Chris Roberson's Paragaea: A Planetary Romance, I wanted to close the year on a more positive note. Perusing my shelves in the hope of finding a novel that would do the trick, I came across Mike Carey's The Devil You Know. The book had been sitting there for months, ever since my contact at Warner Books told me that it was a title I would probably enjoy.Right off the bat I realized that this supernatural thriller was exactly what I needed to end 2007 in style. Indeed, I was sucked into the story in no time. It was a lot of fun to read about Felix Castor's misadventures. A freelance exorcist, Castor is trying to quit the business. In need of cash, he has no choice but to accept what seems to be a simple ghost-hunting gig. But Castor soon finds himself in a position where he must solve a mysterious murder case before being killed himself.
Carey's debut occurs in London, and the author makes the city come alive in this one. I was impressed by how easily Mike Carey appears to have managed to capture the very essence of London in this novel. If you've ever been there, you'll understand what I mean. . .
Felix Castor, as a down-on-his-luck exorcist, is an endearing character. Much like Scott Lynch's Locke Lamora, wise ass Castor goes through much abuse throughout the book. Though he's not the sharpest tool in the shed, you can help but root for the poor fellow.
The pace is excellent, with Mike Carey keeping the reader turning those pages to learn what happens next. The author's snarky writing style and his witty sense of humor help create a balance with the darker elements of this novel.
I was quite pleased to discover that two sequels are already out in the UK, so there will be more Felix Castor adventures coming my way! You can expect me to review them at some point in 2008.
If you're looking for an entertaining paranormal thriller, look no further. The Devil You Know should scratch that itch!
The final verdict: 7.5/10
4 commentaires:
I had to do a double take when I read the words "freelance exorcist," and "trying to quit the business." I never would have put those together, but what an intriguing idea. I'll have to get this one.
All three books are well worth a read. 'Dead Men's Boots' is one of my favourite reads of 2007. Hope you enjoy them!
Mike Carey write some pretty good comic books too, and has been for many years. His current run on X-men has a distinctive flair and is the best of the many X-titles.
Mike Carey also wrote the Vertigo title "Lucifer" for a looong time. Simply the best comics series I've ever read.
I loved "Devil You Know" and can't wait for the sequels to go on sale here in the US.
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