The Nine Deaths of Dr. Valentine by John Llewellyn Probert. Book review
THE NINE DEATHS OF DR. VALENTINE by John Llewellyn Probert,Â
SPECTRAL PRESS, p/b £5.99 Kindle £1.98
Reviewed by Rex Sumner
Synopsis: The police investigation of nine murders of Doctors, each one theatrical, outrageous and very, very public. Â The investigation shows that they may be copying Vincent Price horror films. Â The story is told through following the investigation, from the viewpoint of the Inspector. It also goes to the viewpoint of the victims up until the last moment.
Characterisation: Â Excellent. Â In just a few lines the author brings each character to life. Â There is a wonderful hint of a love affair.
Narrative: Â The opening is a little stilted, but otherwise it flows along well. Â Â A page turner, you want to know how the next person is going to die.
Conversation: natural and flows perfectly.
Overall, it’s lots of fun. Â Although labelled as a gruesome comic revenge romp, I didn’t feel it was particularly comic while reading it, you have to step back to see that. Â I felt the ending should have been stronger and better, but my biggest complaint is that it is too short! Â Barely 80 pages and I would have enjoyed it as a longer book.
Marks from me A, I wouldn’t read it again and I will happily read other books by this author.
Recommendation: read this book. Â I’m not into horror or crime, but I enjoyed it. Â So will you. Â Good light reading.