Semi Finalist
Assessment:
Plot: Cockell’s literary powers are expertly exercised in this page turner, a riveting mosaic of horror. As the reader progresses through this suspenseful narrative, it is clearly evident that the worst monsters are those least expected.
Prose: Cockell's prose is tense, polished, and develops a burgeoning sense of dread. Dialogue is dynamic, convincing, and serves the progression of plot, while storytelling unfolds with barely noticed exposition.
Originality: Literary in its approach, while maintaining a tightly woven and entertaining supernatural mystery, Cockell's novel is highly original in its execution.
Character/Execution: Readers will quickly become invested in the engagingly flawed characters portrayed. Each introduced has weight, distinctive traits, and possesses internal agency.
Date Submitted: May 30, 2020
“A knockout…
Cockell has a gift for clever, taut plotting, making the reader turn pages fast. Masterful characterization, clever plotting, expert writing, and a dash of supernatural mark this fine mystery. Readers looking for a thoroughly gripping paranormal mystery won’t be able to resist.”
"The ending was spectacular and one of the best plot twists I have encountered for a long time." 5 Stars
