Michael Shotter reviewed Séance for Wicked King Death by Coy Hall
None
5 stars
I don't want to say too much about the nuts and bolts of this book, not because it's unworthy of such analysis but because I think it's a thing better experienced than described. I found its premise (of a reformed charlatan being pulled back into his former life of conducting fake séances) immediately intriguing and compelling and that interest easily propelled me through the first two thirds of the book almost effortlessly as I was blissfully swept along by the swift and potent current of the narrative.
There were a few moments in the back third of the tale that struck me as a bit convenient, implausible, or less to my liking, which I won't elaborate on as they involve major plot spoilers; however, there were no deal breakers and I found myself able to look past those instances as the author wisely left enough room and ambiguity around them …
I don't want to say too much about the nuts and bolts of this book, not because it's unworthy of such analysis but because I think it's a thing better experienced than described. I found its premise (of a reformed charlatan being pulled back into his former life of conducting fake séances) immediately intriguing and compelling and that interest easily propelled me through the first two thirds of the book almost effortlessly as I was blissfully swept along by the swift and potent current of the narrative.
There were a few moments in the back third of the tale that struck me as a bit convenient, implausible, or less to my liking, which I won't elaborate on as they involve major plot spoilers; however, there were no deal breakers and I found myself able to look past those instances as the author wisely left enough room and ambiguity around them to make that possible.
Ultimately, I found "A Séance for Wicked King Death" to be a fun, fast, and worthwhile read, a nicely-executed dose of noir that makes good use of its unique setting and historical context to deliver a story rich with detail, thought-provoking elements, and a dash of noteworthy social commentary.
This one was a 4.25 for me but I'm happy to round up as I feel the overall quality of the effort easily warrants it despite a few elements not being to my personal taste.