Those who share the view that rural communities often (though not always) hide the commitment of vile deeds beneath a quiet and peaceful veneer will find much to love in The Saint of Wolves and Butchers. They will especially appreciate the ending, which ties up just enough plot lines to make this volume complete in itself while leaving a couple of matters open in the event that Grecian wants to revisit Paradise Flats and this unforgettable cast of characters. I loved every word of this book. It’s perfectly paced, nicely detailed, and terrifying and tender by turns in all of the right places. At a few points, it reminded me of a collaboration between Stephen King and Lee Child.
The Saint of Wolves and Butchers is cleverly paced. The story starts slowly, which does not mean sluggish, then when everything is set in place, barrels toward the ending. The pace was frenzied, I could hardly keep up. I must also mention the absolutely flawless editing! I was held entirely captive throughout the whole book because Mr. Grecian understands timing like few authors: I couldn't wait to read what had happened in the past, what would happen next, and at some point who were the villains. The atmosphere crackles with tension, and even when it seems nothing is concretely happening, the wheels are set in motion and a feeling of impending doom descends, then a flurry of startling plot twists careen towards a stunning conclusion.
A breathtaking thriller with plenty of action and some very clever twists, this is one of those stories where just when you think things can’t get any worse, they do; but the grimly satisfying conclusion makes it worth it for both characters and readers. Fans of David Baldacci and John Grisham will enjoy the unpredictability and unrelenting suspense.
