The Arsonist’s Handbook by L.A. Detwiler – Review by Erica Shoebridge
The Arsonist’s Handbook: A Gripping Psychological Thriller by L.A. Detwiler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a very dark and twisted book straight from the get-go. The obsession with fire and burning buildings, cars, and animals is heavy throughout. When 16 year-old Jameson finds a book in his attic detailing his father’s addiction to arson, he feels a connection to a man that has long been missing from his life. He is a boy who has grown up wondering what his dad might be like, and imagining who he might be. With this book, he starts to feel a connection to the mystery man, and sets about trying to follow in his pyro footsteps. The desolation of the characters in this book seeps into you; it is the deep ache of knowing yourself to be doomed. The story sometimes blindsides you with shocking events, punctuating the gloom with fresh horror. The writing skillfully conveys a lot of emotion and psychological torment. If this sounds like its up your alley, give it a go.
Reviewed by @ericalorraine
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