This, the second of Yancey’s Monstrumologist series, does not disappoint. Gore, horror and general yuck-factor opportunities abound along with an evocative depiction of early twentieth century New York and further development of the two key characters of Will Henry and Dr Warthrop.
The Curse of the Wendigo is almost two separate novels rolled into the one. The first half follows Will Henry and Dr Warthrop as they track down Warthrop’s old sparring partner John Chanler who has disappeared in the Western Canadian wilderness. This is the landscape that adults will know from Twin Peaks and X-Files and Yancey draws all that televisual eeriness into his book with an expert’s touch. The second half takes place in a richly drawn New York where appalling slums nestle alongside exquisite high society and both Will Henry and Warthrop get to interact with the opposite sex. This is new territory for the series and bodes well for the next book. The poignant description of Warthrop’s liaison adds a level of complexity to his character and provides something of an explanation for his enigmatic personality. Will Henry’s new friendship, by contrast, provides light relief and a tempting glimpse of what might be to come.
This is a book for horror fans who are bored sick of vampires, werewolves the usual array of evil characters. And, speaking from experience, this is definitely not one to read at twilight in an empty room!
Originally written for writeaway.org.uk
No comments:
Post a Comment