The Devourer

by Chris Chelser

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

This book has been on my review list for some time now, but I just got around to reading it. I thought it would be the perfect for the fraterfest readathon. The original cover and the synopsis hinted at things sinister, as a result I was prepared to be taken on a journey where I would be scared to sleep with the lights off. I am happy to report, this did not happen, however, there were some eerie and suspenseful moments, which had me fearing for the characters who were directly affected by the unknown entities.

While reading The Devourer, I had a picture in my mind of how I would write my review. However, by the time the story ended, the picture I had in my mind took on a different format.

Set in 1858 Paris, The Devourer tells the story of Mercedes a seamstress and part owner of a fashion shop, which she operates alongside her husband. She lost her daughter, and she still grieves the loss. Besides grieving the loss of her daughter, she was knee deep in other family issues that had the potential to break her. However, Mercedes proved to be a strong and smart woman. She possesses the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. This ability would take her on a journey where she would straddle the world of the living and the dead in an effort to save her daughter’s soul.

The author introduced me to a world of card reading, astral travel, angels and demons who devours the souls and energy of the living.

I found The Devourer to be an interesting and unique tale, but I have to admit it took me a while to get into the story. As result, it took me longer than normal to get through the book. However, as soon as the story picked up, I found myself immersed in Mercedes quest.

The story switched between the earthly and spiritual plains and provided POVs of the characters from both realms. The switch was seamless and easy to follow. I enjoyed both aspects, but I found the spiritual aspect to be more complex. There was numerous references to colours in regards to soul of the various entities, which were at times confusing. After awhile the references became a bit monotonous and boring. It took me awhile to understand the events in spiritual plain but as the author delved deeper in these things clearer. I slowly came to understand the actions of the characters from both plains. It was interesting to observe the living working with the dead, to achieve a common goal.

The story did not end the way I thought it would but after analyzing the events, I figured the ending created be more favorable.

Conclusion/Recommendation
To conclude, I found this to be interesting and intense read. This story is for persons who enjoy stories that features strong paranormal elements.