Beware the Spider: A Black Orchid Chronicle
Adult; Mystery/Thriller; (Market)
Nature photographer Sebastian Arnett holds a terrible secret: He can kill with his thoughts, a curse placed on him by an ancient spider demon that controls when he can use the power.
His attempts to break the curse take him to a confrontation with a mysterious aboriginal in the Australian outback and then to the demon’s jungle home in Borneo.
Before he can crack the code, ruthless Chinese crime lords hear of his power and go searching for him, hoping to acquire the power.
Afraid to tackle Sebastian directly, they kidnap the woman he loves and set off a wild train chase that ends in a battle of demons and leaves Sebastian powerless to confront the victor.
Plot/Idea: 8 out of 10
Originality: 8 out of 10
Prose: 7 out of 10
Character/Execution: 7 out of 10
Overall: 7.50 out of 10
Assessment:
Plot: The plot of Hasse's story is quite exciting. It's something different, especially with Sebastion's secret power that everyone wants to use, and the memorable events that happen to him throughout the story.
Prose/Style: Hasse does an effective job describing his settings, characters, and plot. His writing style makes for a fun and quick read.
Originality: Hasse's story is original, from exotic locations, demons, and a curse/power that its main character Sebastion possesses.
Character Development: Hasse's characters are well developed and interesting. The main character, nature photographer Sebastion, is likable, as is his girlfriend Amanda. Minor characters like T add more to the story, with his sensible but sometimes jealous personality.
Date Submitted: June 18, 2019
