The cover of David Sodergren’s DEAD GIRL BLUES tickled my pulp horror aesthetic obsession perfectly. Its eye catching yellow cover spoke to me on manyThe cover of David Sodergren’s DEAD GIRL BLUES tickled my pulp horror aesthetic obsession perfectly. Its eye catching yellow cover spoke to me on many levels and tickled my 70’s pulp horror nostalgia...but then I opened the book. Once I started reading, I was overwhelmed and even further impressed.
Sodergren’s protagonist, Willow Zulawski, has found herself deep in the dangerous world of snuff films and murder. As she is walking to meet up with a date, a woman is found stabbed in an alley, calling for help, and by happenstance Willow is the one who answers. The grisly encounter is only the beginning of what sadistic mayhem comes next.
I read NIGHT SHOOT awhile back and, color me impressed, Sodergren’s talent for seductive plot and highly addictive writing is brilliant. His books draw you in and never let go. Willow is a stripper and the victims are employed in the sex profession, all deserving of our empathy and attention. Unlike NIGHT SHOOT, there is disturbing graphic content. I mean, you caught the mention of snuff films up top, right?! So be forewarned.
DEAD GIRL BLUES is filled to the brim with delectable mystery, noir, and a mix of true blue slasher horror. SERIOUSLY, it’s so damn good. I cannot recommend any of Sodergren’s books enough, but this one might be my favorite. I plowed through this page-turner and I’m already ready for the next one! ...more
Glenn Rolfe’s UNTIL SUMMER COMES AROUND is an all-consuming, 1980s coming-of-age, nostalgic, vampire exThank you Flame Tree Press for my gifted copy.
Glenn Rolfe’s UNTIL SUMMER COMES AROUND is an all-consuming, 1980s coming-of-age, nostalgic, vampire extravaganza of a story. I “summer breezed” right on through this entire book, and much like the vampires in this story, I was bloodthirsty for more.
I love the description in the synopsis: “When fifteen-year-old Rocky Zukas meets a mysterious dark-haired girl named November, his world is forever changed.” HOOKED. November has a family secret, and unfortunately for Rocky, he is under the spell of young love.
Every detail from the beach setting atmosphere to the 1980s summer teenage love story, to the blood-lusting vampires is exactly what I needed right now. Rolfe does a perfect job building these characters brick by brick and crafting a brilliant vampire story without going over-the-top. Did I mention I love it?! The carnival beach town, music, video games, and innocence (well vampire innocence) are just so RAD. I think I might need to watch the movie The Lost Boys again because this has those vibes. It’s oozing with nostalgia, dead bodies, and blood addled vampires. The kill scenes are brutal and blood-soaked. Gnarly. Righteous.
UNTIL SUMMER COMES AROUND is a perfectly executed story with a delicate balance of blood and love. Let’s just say I’m a fan of Mr. Rolfe and cannot wait for the next one. ...more