YA Horror Fiction

THE WITCHING WELL by S.D. Hintz (Grinning Skull Press) is definitely what I would consider YA horror fiction, but I think readers of all ages will enjoy the suspense. The story is told from a young boy's POV, after his mother is murdered. While the very first sentence is shocking, there is nothing graphic in the rest of the book. As an adult, I read the story in one sitting, and I think this would make a great PG-13 movie.

After his mother's funeral, Murray begins his new life at his grandmother's house. He soon finds out her neighbors are the absolute worst bunch of elderly people, save one kind man by the name of Cab. Hintz includes a few scenes which seem unnecessary to the main storyline, but they are most likely intended to misdirect readers. I also thought there are too many details about meals, clothes and other insignificant background. I would have preferred more information about Murray's ancestors, specifically, the source of his genetic anomaly.

Assuming the target audience is a younger group of readers, some may lose focus, before the big neighborhood secret is revealed. Once Murray figures out what is about to befall the small town, the ending is a bit rushed. Despite my criticism, if Hintz decided to write a sequel about Murray searching for his father, I would absolutely read it. Murray is definitely a character worthy of another story.

As always,
AstraDaemon