A week or so ago I found out a friend of mine, Neal Hock (from Musings of a Dark Intruder,) was reading Jeff Strand’s “Graverobbers Wanted.” I read this book a few years ago (when it was first introduced to us in paperback) and LOVED IT! But… since that was in the days before KO I never had the opportunity to share its demented brilliance with you. So..I, thinking it was a total shame, instantly asked Neal if he would be interested in writing a guest review. Thankfully he agreed, and more importantly… when he heard I was bogged down by sick kids and was struggling to get reviews up he rushed his “thoughts” to me in hopes of buying me some much needed time. So here is to you Neal for having my back, and to my Kindle-ites… I hope you enjoy his insight as much as I do. Happy Reading!
Graverobbers Wanted – Guest Review by Neal Hock
Graverobbers Wanted (No Experience Necessary) by Jeff Strand was another book high on my “Wanted” list that I finally got around to picking up cheap for Kindle (I believe for only $2.39). And like a few other books I’ve read recently, I had heard a lot of good things about it. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the book, but based on the title and what little I knew about Jeff Strand’s writing style I figured it would be a fun read.
In this first book of the Mayhem series, we are introduced to Andrew Mayhem—devoted husband, loving father, wannabe private eye, and all-around magnet for trouble. If there was ever a poster boy for the slogan “Sh*t Happens,” Andrew is it. In this story, we find Andrew short on money, without a steady job, and owing money for a recent car accident. Enter the beautiful woman with an offer for Andrew and his friend, Roger, they simply cannot refuse. How much trouble can they really get into by digging up a fresh grave? Turns out A LOT. What follows is a wild ride in which the stakes steadily rise.
Strand’s prose is snappy and reads quickly, and his dialogue flows naturally. I don’t normally care much for my comedy and action/horror mixed, but Strand expertly blends them to create a hilarious thrill ride that will keep you turning the pages. Strand’s writing is unique and not quite like anyone else’s I’ve read. The Kindle edition is nicely formatted and there are a very few minor errors/typos. Be forewarned: if you read this book you will want to get the others in the series (Single White Psychopath Seeks Same and Casket For Sale (Only Used Once)).
This was one of the most fun reads I’ve had this past year and I’ll be jumping on the other two books in the series soon. I highly recommend this one to those who enjoy action/horror books. And while there is plenty that is funny in this book, it’s not for the faint-hearted, as the book does get darker throughout and deals with subjects that may be too disturbing for some readers.
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[Rating:5/5]
Nice review. I may have to pick this one up (and the others in the series too).
Thanks for having me as a guest at you awesome site! I’m glad I was able to help you out. 😀
@JC Phelps–Thanks for the kinds words. It really was a fun story and Jeff’s writing is great.
-Neal
Great review! I love Jeff Strand’s writing, and you certainly did the book justice.
Thank you, Elizabeth! I am becoming a huge fan of Strand’s writing.
-Neal
I’ve never read any of Jeff Strand’s books but this review makes me one to try one!
Christa
Great book, by a great author, who definitely does have a style all his own. I can’t figure out why the rest of the world hasn’t discovered him yet!
Another for the must read list.