Review of Supernatural: Nevermore by Keith R.A. DeCandido

When I first heard about Supernatural: Nevermore, my curiosity was piqued—not just because I’m a devoted fan of the series, but also due to the intriguing blend of the supernatural and literary history promised within its pages. Keith R.A. DeCandido captures a delightful chapter for Sam and Dean Winchester as they embark on an adventure steeped in the eerie essence of Edgar Allan Poe’s work. As someone who thrives on stories about brotherhood, myth, and mayhem, I was excited to dive into this book.

Set against the vibrant, haunting backdrop of New York City, Nevermore wastes no time in dragging us through a whirlwind of paranormal chaos. The Winchester brothers, reeling from familial tragedies, find themselves investigating a haunted house belonging to a local rocker. But, typical of their escapades, the plot thickens when they uncover a series of murders linked to the peculiar tales of Poe. This juxtaposition of rock music, banshees, and classic horror makes for a script that feels as if it could have aired as one of those beloved, chilling episodes from the show.

DeCandido’s portrayal of Sam and Dean is commendable; he successfully delivers their distinct personalities and camaraderie. The dynamic humor we love from the series flashes throughout the narrative, leading to more than a few chuckles that echoed as I read. Personally, I found the moments where Dean wrestles with the chaos of Bronx parking—while trying to navigate his beloved Impala—to be both amusing and true to character.

The writing style, while accessible, does have its quirks. Some may perceive it as lacking depth, especially if one is accustomed to the layered narratives of high literature. However, the fast-paced storytelling and clever interspersing of humor kept me turning the pages with eager anticipation. Reflecting on the customer reviews, it’s clear that fans treasure the humor and lighthearted moments that stay true to the show’s spirit, even if aspects of character development are somewhat flat.

One fan remarked on the hilarity of Dean choosing classic rock albums over his usual dramatic exploits, a nod that touched my heart as a lover of music. This light-heartedness proves that, even amid monstrous mayhem, we can find joy. The setting of Poe’s cottage adds a fantastic layer of intrigue, making literature come alive in a stylized fusion that enhances the overall narrative.

As I closed the book, I felt a mix of nostalgia and excitement, eager to propose this to anyone who has ever enjoyed the Supernatural series. It’s a great read for fans longing for a fix between episodes, or for those who simply enjoy a good supernatural mystery with a wink and a nudge at the literary greats.

Supernatural: Nevermore is not merely a tie-in novel, but a charming addition that deepens the Winchester lore and entertains in its own right. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just dipping your toes into the series’ expansive universe, this book offers a little something for everyone—a fun, whimsical escape into the world of the supernatural.

You can find Supernatural: Nevermore (Supernatural Series, 1) here >>