Wetbones : Book Review

"Wetbones" by John Shirley is an enthralling and bone-chilling thriller that invites readers to embark on a dark and twisted journey into the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the story revolves around Jimmy Blackburn, a former cop turned private investigator, who becomes entangled in a case involving a missing girl. As Jimmy delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a malevolent conspiracy that involves voodoo, supernatural forces, and a mysterious cult.

Shirley's writing style is raw and atmospheric, immersing readers in a world filled with tension and unease. The vivid descriptions of a decaying cityscape and the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles create a haunting backdrop that lingers in the minds of readers. The pacing of the story is relentless, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages.

The characters in "Wetbones" are multidimensional and compelling, providing depth and authenticity to the narrative. Jimmy Blackburn is a flawed and relatable protagonist, haunted by his past and battling his inner demons. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic femme fatale Alicia and the ruthless cult leader, add layers of intrigue and suspense to the story.

One of the standout features of "Wetbones" is the seamless integration of crime noir and supernatural elements. Shirley masterfully blends these genres, crafting a captivating and original tale that will satisfy fans of both. The infusion of voodoo and dark magic intensifies the suspense and raises the stakes, making the novel even more gripping and electrifying.

Overall, "Wetbones" is an atmospheric and riveting thriller that will captivate readers who enjoy crime fiction and the supernatural. With its compelling plot, well-developed characters, and haunting setting, John Shirley delivers a standout novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

What are readers saying?

John Shirley's novel "Wetbones" has garnered a range of opinions from readers, resulting in mixed reviews. The story follows Ben Keegan, a homicide detective immersed in a dark and treacherous investigation.

Some readers commended John Shirley's writing style, admiring its ability to effectively capture the gritty and eerie tone of the story. They found the descriptions to be vivid and were impressed by the author's skill in instilling a sense of dread and suspense throughout the book. These individuals were fully absorbed in the dark and macabre world that Shirley had built, finding the storytelling to be captivating.

On the other hand, other readers were disappointed with "Wetbones," citing various flaws in the plot and character development. Some found the narrative to be confusing and convoluted, hindering their ability to fully engage with the story. The book's pacing was also criticized, with some readers feeling that it took too long for the plot to unfold properly. Additionally, the characters were described as underdeveloped and lacking depth, making it difficult to form a connection with them.

One aspect of the book that received both praise and criticism was the level of violence and graphic content. Some readers appreciated the intense and visceral nature of the violence, deeming it necessary for the story's tone. However, others felt that the graphic scenes were excessive and gratuitous, detracting from their overall enjoyment of the book.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers acknowledged John Shirley's talent for crafting a unique and atmospheric story. They appreciated the dark and foreboding atmosphere of "Wetbones," even if they had reservations about certain aspects of the plot and characters. Overall, opinions on the book varied, suggesting that it may appeal more to readers who enjoy dark and gritty thrillers, but may not resonate with those seeking a more straightforward and cohesive narrative.

WetbonesBook MysteryThriller BoneChilling