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Richter's War: Case of the Ghostly Seance
Daniel P. Douglas, author
A Spirited Tale about a Frightful Plot to Control the Future!
The hunt for nefarious Nazi spies in Los Angeles during World War II just took another paranormal turn, which means hardboiled detective Geno Richter is on the case and soon embroiled in wartime action, mystery, and suspense...
A stakeout at the Los Angeles Central Library ensnares Geno Richter in the roots of a deadly conspiracy stretching back to the dawn of civilization. Soon, the enemy's real motives emerge after they awaken an ancient spirit who's determined to fulfill harrowing prophecies.
As Geno combats this devious Nazi plan to harness supernatural forces, he gains the help of an intriguing new partner--former Marine Corps nurse, Anna Torres--but double-dealing associates complicate matters, and an evil entity lures Geno into what becomes a high-stakes and deeply personal war.
Sometimes outwitted and outgunned, he never surrenders, and when a few unexpected allies rise to the occasion, Geno gains a fighting chance to defeat his own demons, defy the Nazis, and protect humanity's future.
Plot/Idea: 7 out of 10
Originality: 7 out of 10
Prose: 6 out of 10
Character/Execution: 6 out of 10
Overall: 6.50 out of 10
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: On the one hand, this novel takes the reader on a wild, genre-blending ride, while the layering of genre and plot (mystery/ supernatural and quest/crime novel) muddies the main thread of the novel.
Prose: The prose is clear and enjoyable, with classic noir influences.
Originality: This novel integrates a number of recognizable tropes as it introduces ancient relics, supernatural agency, and Nazi foes.
Character Development/Execution: Richter's War is highly inventive and great fun. However, with its blend of high adventure and a character drawn from hardboiled detective fiction, the novel sometimes verges on caricature.
Date Submitted: June 27, 2022