Review: Old Haunts, A London City Novel (E. Spain)

Old Haunts, A London City Novel

Emmett Spain

One of two reviews I've been behind on:

Four out of Five stars

I’m an urban fantasy writer myself. So I couldn’t help but look at “Old Haunts” with a critical eye.

So imagine my surprise when I finished the ‘ghost’ of a teaser and was already onboard for this alternate reality (London) romp.

Jack Worthington is the perfect anti-hero. Does everything the wrong why with the right intentions.

Well most of the time.

Worthington is a gruff, head-strong spirit talker whose desire to help a client with her marital issues (especially an issue with the ‘death do us part’ portion of her vows) leads to a death mark and an eventual race against an oncoming apocalypse.

The pace is fast, the twists are unexpected and I closed the book already looking forward to book two.

Just to see how Emmett screws with his characters next.

And one final note. If you are tired of sparkly vampires, then you’ll really enjoy one of the main villains.

Instant Critique, Comments from Down Under.

As a new unpublished 'babe-in-the-woods' writer, I crave feedback.

Constructive critique and continual practice is the only way to get good at the craft. The Internet has been an interesting source of the 'instant gratification' our generation seems to thrive on these days.

It's actually been a pretty good experience so far.

Initially, I was quite nervous about posting excerpts from my first novel for the world to see. Not only was I worried about copy-write issues, but I really had doubts if what I've been building is worth anyone's time.

What I didn't expect is the number of writers (and industry insiders) who have offered me advise--good, solid words of wisdom that only better my skills.

Case in point:

Emmett Spain, an author from Sydney who writes in the same 'urban fantasy' genre as my 'Arcana Chronicles,' took time out to provide some pretty detailed critique of 'The Prodigal's Foole' opening chapter. It was good stuff and I'll be playing with some of his suggestions over the weekend.

BTW, I highly recommend his book 'Old Haunts, A London City Novel' I have it on my Kindle and it's a great read.

For a preview pop over to Amazon here:

Old Haunts, A London City Novel

But it is really interesting to see how electronic media, social websites and e-communications has changed the world of writing.

On the one hand, it has increased the number of writers out there submitting work 100-fold. This leads to a lot more competition for shelf-space in the stores. On the other hand, you can get honest and instant feedback on your work.

Sometimes from as far away as Sydney. See Emmett's Blog.

Last post for the long weekend here in the States. Loads of writing and polishing to do. In the meantime, enjoy yourselves!

And if you get a chance, check out Emmett's Blog.