Book Review: A Certain Slant of Light

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

A Certain Slant of Light     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Chandler McGrew
Class/Genre:   Fantasy   Mystery   Thriller
Xlibris, 1999, 276 pp.
Unknown Binding

In Maine, Meg is only fourteen, but the weight of the universe has proved too much for the girl. Her mother is a drunk and her father likes touching his girl in places that make Meg uncomfortable and depressed. Unable to cope with his grope any longer, Meg uses a straight edge to commit suicide.

Also in Maine Liz Durham stepped off the curb only to have the kid accidentally run her over. Rushed to the hospital, she had no prayer. The doctors feverishly work to save the lives of Meg and Liz, but fail in both cases. Simultaneously, their souls leave their bodies with Liz’s heading to heaven and Meg’s going to hell. However, a strange phenomena occurs and their souls intertwine, leaving both individuals seemingly miraculously healed and alive.

Two years later, heaven and hell send the collector Death to reclaim two souls that remain unaccounted for. However, neither heaven nor hell is prepared for Liz and Meg teaming up in an attempt to save both their lives.

This allegory is an incredible thriller that will elate fans of mystical tales. The story line is chilling as the two women battle for the right to regain and retain their souls even if it means moving heaven and hell to accomplish this impossible feat. In the midst of an otherworldly chilling drama, Chandler McGrew makes it work because the audience not only sees the motives of the two ladies, but quickly cares what happens to Meg and Liz. Move over Mr. King to make room for Mr. McGrew.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner