Yes, I consider myself a Hellion. That's how Hunter Shea refers to his most ardent followers. I can't say I've read every one of his books (he's remarkably prolific), but I've yet to read one I didn't care for.
Creature is the second book I've read from new publisher Flame Tree Press, who looks to publish both established authors and new voices in horror and the supernatural, crime and mystery thrillers, as well as science fiction and fantasy. It's also a bit of a diversion for Hunter. It's easily his most personal work to date. Sure, there's a monster, that's evident from the title, but this book is so much more.
From the opening line, the reader realizes there is something different about this story...
"Kate Woodson was dying and her executioner was her own body."
For a while, it seemed the horror in the book would be found in the medical treatments Kate would have to undergo.
In an effort to get away from the doctors and treatments for a while Kate, her husband Andrew, and her beloved dog, Buttons, retreated to an isolated cabin in the woods of Maine. It's not long before they discover they are not alone. I love this kind of story and Hunter Shea delivers a good one. Pure, unadulterated horror.
Despite the serious nature of Creature, the author still knows how hot entertain with his story-telling...
"She knew lobster was big up here. Too bad she refused to eat something that looked like a cockroach from hell."
I'm used to Hunter Shea's monster fare but despite the title, Creature is a more complete book with greater substance throughout. At times the pace was furious and I just couldn't turn the pages fast enough. This is one of his most entertaining books so far. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy, just in case. A heartwrenching story with massive amounts of carnage. Dare I say there is something for everyone.
Available in various formats from Flame Tree Press.
From the author's bio - Hunter Shea is the product of a misspent childhood watching scary movies, reading forbidden books and wishing Bigfoot would walk past his house. He doesn’t just write about the paranormal – he actively seeks out the things that scare the hell out of people and experiences them for himself. Hunter’s novels can even be found on display at the International Cryptozoology Museum. His video podcast, Monster Men, is one of the most watched horror podcasts in the world. He’s a bestselling author of over 13 (lucky number!) books, all of them written with the express desire to quicken heartbeats and make spines tingle. Living with his wonderful family and two cats, he’s happy to be close enough to New York City to gobble down Gray’s Papaya hotdogs when the craving hits.
Hunter Shea is a must buy author for me. I got Creature in paperback but haven't read it yet. I plan to read a couple of his at least for my October horror month as I haven't read everything of his yet!
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