[ Home ]
[ About | Reviews | Search | Submit ]

DARKNESS IN HIM by Andrew Lyons St. Martin's Press, January 2003 304 pages $24.95 ISBN: 0312301464

It is said that every person is defined by one event in his life. In the case of Jake Conason it was an end-of-semester fraternity party at Jefferson University in St. Louis. On that night, Jake is going to start a chain of events that will forever alter his life and change him in ways he never expected. He is planning to go to a prestigious Ivy League law school and become a rich and famous lawyer. All that will change after a one-night stand. Would things have turned different had he stayed home in his apartment? Probably not, however his goals and aspirations will be radically changed and transform him into a monster. Whether or not he cares – he does not. Nothing will prevent him from achieving his dreams – ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

Darkness in Him is Andrew Lyons first novel and hopefully not his last. He uses a first-person narrative that is powerful, chilling and dark as we see Jake’s turn towards the dark side of life. This character is egocentric, a manipulator and a cold-hearted bastard. He makes no apologies and constantly tries to defend and justify his actions to the readers. After he murders a fellow student, he does everything he can to cover his tracks and to pass the blame to others. His girlfriend, his teachers, his friends, and the police are oblivious to his lies. Some of them see through his deceit but Jake is ready for them. He is oblivious to the other characters. He will get what is coming to him, but it will be a complete surprise to everyone.

This is one of the best new authors coming out in 2003. A frightening narrative that takes you into the heart of darkness and never lets go. Character development is strong even though it is all seen through the point of view of Jake Conason. He underestimates everyone and he might just get away with it. The suspense in this novel is overwhelming and it does not stop for one minute. It contains a well-structured plot and a sociopath that is reminiscent of Bret Easton Ellis American Psycho’s Patrick Bateman. This is an impressive book that receives my highest possible recommendation. It is a real treat from an up-and coming new novelist.

Reviewed by Angel L. Soto, December 2002

[ Top ]

QUICK SEARCH:

Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)

[ About | Reviews | Search | Submit ]
[ Home ]