Book Review: Mr. X

Reviewed By: Luke Croll - RAM

[4.5 stars]

Mr. X Amazon UK PB Amazon UK HC
Peter Straub
Class/Genre: Mystery
HarperCollins; 1999; £16.99; pp. 482
Classification: Adult fiction (Horror thriller)

On his birthday, every year, Ned Dunstan suffers from a seizure, in which he witnesses sceNes of horrific murder by a man in black, whom he calls Mr. X. This year, as his birthday approaches, he returns to his hometown, unable to shake the idea that his mother is dying. Before she dies, she tells him the name of his father and warns him that his life is in danger. When he learns that he has an identical twin brother with supernatural abilities and that there has been a spate of murders, for which he is the prime suspect, he starts to realize his own life could be in danger as well.

It has been a long time since 'The Hellfire Club' and I had started to wonder about what exactly Straub was up to. However, with 'Mr. X', he has returned to the world of contemporary horror in top form. This novel is an amazing, wild ride through the history of the town of Edgarton and the Dunstan family. Straub keeps us guessing throughout, giving us little clues, but never really enough of the big picture for us to work out exactly what is going on.

Especially interesting are the passages from the eponymous villain. Straub really tries hard to illustrate his beliefs and his descent into total insanity, making him a very deep character. In fact, all of Straub's characters show depth and the fact that he adds in some black humour as well makes the novel an interesting and gripping read.

The conclusion is shocking and overall adds to a great novel. Peter Straub has built quite a reputation as a teller of supernatural tales and with this one; it will not be harmed in any way. His fans will adore it and even if you have never read a book by him before, you are going to enjoy it. I loved it.

Luke Croll - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

Luke Croll - Conference interpreter and translator
http://lukecroll.translatorscafe.com

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.