I read this book a month and a half ago, and it seems like a lot has happened since then… I cannot remember all the things I thought while reading this book, but I gave it 4 stars, so I must have liked it.
This books follows a man named Paul who has returned to his hometown to care for his ailing mother. Being back home brings back memories of his friendship with some local boys – James, Charlie, and Billy. The latter two are convicted of a terrible murder which precipitates Paul leaving, and the murder haunts him because he was part of the group when things started to get dangerous.
The Shadows refers to the woods that abut the town they all live in and where Paul, Charlie, Billy, and James had some of their more disturbing experiences together.
Anyway, there have been some new murders that echo the killings of the past, and Paul is determined to find the answer.
Overall, I’m a fan of Alex North’s work. I remember really liking The Whisper Man. There’s a particular way that North uses the magic and terror of childhood to build a tableau for spooky mysteries that makes for very compelling reads. His books are just the right amount of creepy and mysterious and realistic and supernatural. And unlike some horror writers, I don’t feel as disappointed by the deus ex machina that often negates the terror I felt while reading. Would recommend! And would also recommend writing your reviews when you are fresh off the book!