Book review: The Intruders

[Cartoonist]

I checked out a book from my library that is an anthology of new fiction based on the Cthulhu mythos. One of the reasons I like anthologies is that I often discover new authors. Such is the case with Michael Marshall Smith.

He's a London writer of thrillers. His short story in this collection was full of British slang and English humour. I enjoy that kind of stuff, so I sought out one of his novels.

I was disappointed to find that the story took place in Seattle and concerned an ex-cop from Los Angeles. It was seriously lacking in humor, but I stuck with it because it was about an interesting take on multiple personalities. Kind of science fictiony.

I looked forward to the denouement as I anticipated something new and imaginative. Imagine my surprise when the names of Jesus and Moses and other Old Testament figures appeared on the page. There was absolutely no warning.

I feel that this is something that should appear on the cover or at least on the inner dust jacket. You know, something like: Contains religious bullshit.

[mr blur]

1. Actually I rather enjoyed his novel 'The Straw Men',

and to a lesser extent, its sequels. An engaging mixture of trashy and smart, I thought. I don't recall any religious bullshit in it, though.

[Cartoonist]

2. The BS was very minor

Like finding a bug in your salad.

I was hoping for more of what I read in his short story.