A Look at I Am Not a Serial Killer, a Young Adult, Supernatural Horror Novel by Dan Wells
I Am Not a Serial Killer is a YA supernatural horror novel. It is the debut novel of Dan Wells.
You may or may not know who Dan Wells is. I only know of him because I listen to the Writing Excuses podcast, of which he is a part. Well, I just finished reading his debut novel, I Am Not a Serial Killer.
You should be able to tell, just from the title, this is not the normal thriller fare. In fact, it’s a supernatural horror, young adult novel. I came into reading this book with no real preconceived notions. I have heard Dan Wells speak on some of the challenges of writing it on the podcast, but I still did not know exactly what to expect. After reading it, I will go on to read (and review) the next two in the series if that means anything to anybody.
What “I Am Not a Serial Killer” is All About
As I said, it’s a fun novel. I was a bit concerned that I did not find that I cared too much for the main character, John. But as this is a first novel, I am sure there is a lot of growth over the course of the next two installments, Mr. Monster and I Don’t Want to Kill You. I did enjoy the drama that plays out between him and his mother, as she tries to deal with her eccentric child. On the other hand, I found that I cared for the main antagonist much more than the main character himself.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004IK9DVA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wofrhofrjo-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004IK9DVA
It’s A Supernatural Horror
Another thing about this novel that needs saying, without spoiling anything, is that it is a supernatural horror. Keep in mind the “supernatural” part. Since I knew it going in, I wasn’t surprised by it. But, I have read this threw a few people for a loop while reading what they thought was just a young adult thriller.
Also, do not let the “young adult” label scare you away. Teenagers and adults alike can read and enjoy this book. There is a lot to like about it. The narrative is tight and moves along at a rapid pace. It may even give you something to think about with its many looks at exactly what it means to be human.
I recommend it as a quick and entertaining read.
Read my review of Book 2, Mr. Monster
Read my review of Book 3, I Don’t Want to Kill You
Read my review of the John Cleaver Series as a whole
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