Mister Lullaby by J.H. Markert has compelling themes, engrossing characters, and an eerie plotline. However, it also has a few drawbacks that just didn’t work for us.
One of the strengths of Mister Lullaby is its ability to create a haunting atmosphere. Markert has done some excellent world-building, especially when it comes to the ‘other side of the tunnel.’ Lalaland, the land of comatose patients, is described in lurid detail, and some of the creatures that inhabit it are truly terrifying.
Another part of the book that stands out is its exploration of trauma and its consequences. Markert does a great job of depicting how a traumatic event can affect an entire community, and how different people deal with it in their unique ways. Deputy Sheriff Beth’s character, in particular, is fascinating, as she navigates her role in the investigation, while also dealing with her personal demons. In this regard, the book has a human touch that elevates it above your typical horror novel.
However, the book does have a few flaws as well. One of the main issues with it is that its plot is overly complicated. There are several subplots, each with their own set of characters, that can be confusing at times. The book also suffers from pacing issues – at times, it feels like it’s moving too slowly, while in others, it seems rushed. Additionally, some of the side characters seem unnecessary and add nothing to the story. These are relatively minor issues, but they can detract from the overall reading experience.
The ending of the book is also somewhat unsatisfactory. It builds up to an expected ending, but the events leading up to it feel underwhelming. There’s not enough pay-off for the readers, and the book ends somewhat abruptly. While this could be seen as a deliberate choice on the author’s part, it still leaves the readers wanting more.
Mister Lullaby is a good book, with some great world-building and compelling characters. The book’s exploration of trauma and its effects is commendable, as it adds a layer of depth to an otherwise standard horror story. However, the book’s plot is overly complicated and has pacing issues that can make it hard to keep track of at times. The ending also falls flat, leaving the us wanting more. Despite its minimal flaws, Mister Lullaby is definitely worth checking out.
Pre-order your copy of Mister Lullaby which hits bookstores everywhere on November 21, 2023. We highly recommend the audiobook narrated by David Bendena and Lauren Ezzo.
NOTE: We received an advance reading/listening copy of Mister Lullaby from the publisher.
