From a Whisper to a Scream by Samuel M. Key

Title:  From a Whisper to a Scream
Author:  Samuel M. Key
Pages:  261
Genre:  Horror
Publisher:  Berkley, 1992

Synopsis:  SOME CRIMINALS DESERVE DEATH
In 1988, child murderer Teddy Bird was apprehended and killed by police.  He was buried in a pauper's grave and forgotten.

SOME NIGHTMARES NEVER END
Years later, crime photographer Jim McGann captures the terrified gaze of a young girl at a crime scene.  Behind her, the obscene graffiti scrawl of a woman's name...Niki.  It is the only clue in a series of grisly murders.  One girl knows the killer's identity.  Once upon a time she played strange games with him.  He warned her not to tell.  It's only a matter of time before he punishes her...

Niki hasn't heard the last of Teddy Bird.

SOME EVIL NEVER DIES

Review:  Wow, just wow.  What a change from the last book.  This one has plenty of Otherworld-ish things going on, but really, it's a horror novel.  A pedophile who refuses to stay dead, trying to find his daughter so he can continue to 'love' her for eternity.  Very unpleasant and horrific and just a plain good, can't-put-it-down story.  Talk about a complete difference....the last one was almost sugary sweet while this one is the exact opposite.

Mr. de Lint used the pseudonym Samuel M. Key to warn his readers when a story was going to be darker than his usual fare.  I believe it's safe to say this is dark and more than dark.  The characters were great, from the Voodoo priestess to the police officer who is also an American Indian.

There were so many quotes that haunt me as I write this, but none of them are something I care to repeat.  The monster, Teddy Bird, is so virulent in his hatred and so assured of his justifications that his thoughts and quotes are unforgettable.  But, they aren't something I'd share in polite company.

The next book in the series is another 'Key novel'.  I can't wait to start on it tomorrow.  I remember now why Charles de Lint is one of my very favorite authors.

Rating:  10 / 10