The Shadow Year tells a story of a family struggling with alcoholism and financial strain. The nameless middle child of the family narrates this story as he and his older brother set out to find answers to mysteries surrounding their neighborhood.
In one year a child goes missing, a man is found dead and there is prowler. The boys have a small replica of their town that they use to figure out where the prowler will strike next. Their little sister seems to possess a psychic ability and aids them in their adventures.
The story will grab the reader right away. The writing is fluid and the characters are well developed and captivating. The author's gift with descriptive writing will make the reader feel like they are witnessing the events unfold in front of them.
I really enjoy the supernatural points in the story. It isn't treated as a big deal and is just something that helps. There is no exploration about how or why the ability presents itself, it just exists and is accepted. It's just a small part that aids in the adventures and intensifies the suspense.
The author tosses in some mundane school day events that only amplify the drama. The narrator is chased by school bullies, he gets away but at the same time comes face to face with a horror. It's the answer to a question the town has been seeking for several weeks, but he is too afraid to tell anyone but his brother. They never tell, but someone else finds it and the horror is revealed.
The author takes some risks that work. Fans of Stephen King would probably enjoy this author too. Mystery, murder and suspense are wrapped between sixth grade school assignments and family drama. I still find myself thinking about the characters. The writer has a gift that I hope he continues to share.
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