Monster, the human hero of this novel, is a cryptobioligical containment specialist; in plain English, an exterminator that deals in magical and demonic beasts. He's got a Demon as a girlfriend, one who's not sure if being with him is better than returning to hell. His partner is a being from another dimension who manifests himself as a piece of origami. His skin changes color daily, the result of a nasty crypto bite, and with each change he temporarily obtains a different power.
In Monster's world magic exists, but has largely been forgotten by the world. Many people cannot see it or its effects at all, while others can view it but quickly forget. Judy belongs to the latter group, and her life to date has been one calamity after another.
Together, they must save the universe from an immortal virus seeking to overthrow reality.
This isn't high end literature, obviously, but it's quick, it's relatively original, and most importantly it's entertaining. I'm not sure they left adequate room for a sequel, but I'm hoping Martinez can pull one off, because these are characters I'd like to visit again.
Well done.
3.25 out of 4.
Now this sounds fun!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely different than anything I've read before.
[Although I have read some succubus books...probably not the same thing though, huh?]
XOXO
I really like A. Lee Martinez' books. I read his Too Many Curses just recently which is about a kobold housekeeper.
ReplyDeleteOn another subject, I recommend Josh Bazell's Beat the Reaper with the caveat that it should not be read on a full stomach or while eating. It mostly takes place in a hospital and has some otherwise VERY graphic passages.
;^) Jan the Gryphon
P.S. wv "jawsp" - what you get when you cross a shark with a yellow jacket