A year ago, I had never heard of Kelli Owen. Now, I can honestly say she is my favorite female horror writer. Is that a sexist thing to say? God, I hope not, because it's the truth. Don't get me wrong, there are a number of strong contenders for that title, but there is something about a Kelli Owen story that set's it apart from the rest of the field. Remarkable prose and at the same time she can make you cringe without going over the edge. All this from someone who used to hide her work, apparently as a result of some misguided fear of rejection.
Six Days was Owen's first full length novel and was a part of the 1st signed, limited collection from Thunderstorm Books new line, Maelstrom, headed by Brian Keene.
In the story, Jenny awakes thinking she's gone blind. It's beyond dark. The kind of dark where you can't see your hand in front of your face. The author skillfully helps you to see, or actually to not see, the world through Jenny's eyes.
As Jenny struggles to understand what's happened and how she may have come to be in this situation we are treated to dreams, memories and the like to help us learn more about the captive. What we learn through these snippets is that Jenny is not all sugar and spice, she has skeletons in her closet, but none of that matters right now. What matters is escape and getting home to her 10 year old son, Alan. What must he be thinking at this point?
Six Days is a wonderfully written novel, especially the flashback scene in the hospital room the day after the "surprise" party for Jen's best friend Beth. Some of the best writing I've read in quite some time. I was drained when I finished the passage and actually had to take a break from reading for a bit. Congratulations to the author.
If you didn't get a chance to pick up this one in it's signed, limited edition release, there's good news. It's now available in e-book format from Amazon.com and if you happen to be a Prime Member you can get it for free as one of your monthly selections from the Kindle Owner's Lending Library.
If you enjoy getting a bit unnerved while immersed in a good story. You might want to check out Six Days. Enjoy.
No comments:
Post a Comment