Title: Nevermore
Author: Keith R.A. DeCandido
First published July 31, 2007
315 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780061370908 (ISBN10: 0061370908)
Rating: 3.84
Overview
Sam and Dean Winchester are back in action, this time in the heart of New Orleans. As they investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young girl, they uncover a sinister plot involving a vengeful spirit who’s been terrorizing the city for centuries.
With clues that lead them to the works of Edgar Allan Poe, the brothers must race against time to stop the spirit before it claims its next victim. But as they delve deeper into the case, they realize that not everything is as it seems and that the true mastermind behind the murders may be closer than they think.
Full of heart-pumping action and spine-tingling suspense, Nevermore is a must-read for fans of the Winchester brothers and lovers of all things supernatural.
Editoral Review
In Keith R.A. DeCandido’s “Nevermore,” readers are taken on a thrilling adventure of dark magic and high-stakes mystery. DeCandido, an established science fiction and fantasy author, blends these genres with the classic horror of Edgar Allan Poe’s beloved poem “The Raven” and creates a captivating story that seamlessly incorporates Poe’s themes and motifs.
The novel is set in modern-day New York City, where supernatural crimes are becoming increasingly common. When a wealthy businessman is found brutally murdered, his death is deemed to be caused by supernatural forces.
It’s up to NYPD’s Occult Crimes Unit to solve the case and prevent further chaos. The novel follows the perspectives of Detective Rebecca Horvath, who specializes in occult crimes, and Maximillian Wolf, a sorcerer who’s recruited by the police to help solve the case.
The two protagonists come from vastly different backgrounds, but both carry their own traumas and insecurities that they must confront in order to solve the murder. The story’s pacing is fast-paced, and its setting is atmospheric, providing readers with a sense of tension and unease.
DeCandido’s writing is gorgeous and evocative, with a sharp attention to detail that brings the story’s New York City setting to life. The blending of science fiction and fantasy elements with classic horror themes feels natural and well-executed, adding to the novel’s depth and resonance.
The author’s character development is robust, both of the primary characters and the supporting cast, who are given prominent roles in the story arc. However, the novel’s climactic ending felt rushed and could have benefitted from additional build-up, delaying the reveal of the villain’s identity.
Additionally, the blending of genres may make it less appealing to readers looking for a straightforward horror or detective story.
Despite these minor flaws, “Nevermore” is a beautifully crafted book, rich with detail that is perfect for readers who enjoy dark, complex supernatural stories with a modern-day twist.
It is a tale that showcases DeCandido’s expertise as a storyteller and his deep respect for the source material. This is a must-read for readers fascinated with how popular culture and classic horror intersect.
I would recommend this book for fans of classic horror, detective stories, and supernatural fiction. It’s a great read for those who enjoy exploring the dark and hidden depths of humanity.
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars for its engaging and well-crafted story, the brilliant characterization, and the blending of elements from various genres.
