Book Review: What Vengeance Comes by Anthony M. Strong
From the moment I stumbled upon What Vengeance Comes, I felt an instant connection—a detective story layered with supernatural elements, all set in the hauntingly atmospheric Bayou. Having been captivated by Anthony M. Strong’s engaging storytelling, I was eager to see how he would weave suspense and mystery with a touch of horror. And let me tell you, this book didn’t just meet my expectations; it shattered them.
At its core, What Vengeance Comes follows NYPD detective John Decker, who returns to his small southern hometown with the hope of leaving his family’s dark past behind. It was a familiar yet refreshing concept. The unfolding narrative quickly turns unsettling, however, as mutilated bodies are discovered, reminiscent of the unsolved murder of his mother decades earlier. What really struck me was the emotional weight of Decker’s character—his torment and determination are painted so vividly that I found myself rooting for him as he navigates this chilling mystery. Strong excels at blending the personal and the supernatural, making Decker’s struggle relatable while keeping an eerie tension alive throughout the book.
The pacing is brisk, pulling the reader along like the storm clouds gathering over Wolf Haven. I appreciated how Strong punctuated the action with moments of introspection, reflecting Decker’s inner turmoil. The characters are crafted with depth, even the supporting cast, each adding layers to the narrative. I felt a tug at my heartstrings for Decker’s high school sweetheart, Nancy, as she embodies unrequited love shadowed by past regrets—a theme that resonates with so many readers.
What particularly captivated me was the eerie atmosphere of the Bayou itself. The backdrop feels alive, painting unsettling visuals that almost whisper secrets of its own. It was interesting to read how supernatural elements were introduced, with suggestions that the killer might not be human. This left me questioning my own assumptions right up to the end, much like the characters themselves. One memorable quote echoes, “The fear of the unknown is more terrifying than the known,” and it lingered with me long after I turned the last page.
If you enjoy supernatural thrillers filled with mystery and character-driven plots, What Vengeance Comes is sure to delight. Fans of authors like James Rollins and Lincoln Child will find a lot to love in Strong’s compelling narrative style. This book is not merely a thrilling read; it’s an experience that creeps under your skin, reminding us of the ghosts we carry within ourselves and the dangers that lurk just outside our doorstep.
In conclusion, my reading journey with What Vengeance Comes opened my eyes to the delicate dance between past fears and present resolutions. Strong’s ability to blend horror with heartfelt emotion makes this a book worth diving into. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone craving a mix of suspense, supernatural intrigue, and rich character development. You won’t be able to put it down, much like I struggled to let go of its haunting tale.
You can find What Vengeance Comes (John Decker Supernatural Thrillers Book 1) here >>