Thunderland
By Brandon Massey

     In my (not so humble) opinion, there is nothing better than a spine-tingling, edge-of-the- seat; nightmare-stirring horror novel and Thunderland is just that. This novel has all the elements that heighten the senses and make it simply irresistible to put down. Brandon Massey’s writing ability in his first novel is superb, and as the author of many short stories, I’m compelled to find them and read them as well. Thunderland simply has put the horror genre back in the forefront again. I found myself up until the wee hours of the morning, anxiously turning pages to see what exactly was going to happen. I was probably up so late because I was scared to sleep, truth be told. Thunderland is not exactly a psychological thriller, but it demonstrates the stretch of the human imagination as a powerful tool or weapon.

     Jason is 13 years old with a quite active imagination, and the most under-active, under- involved parents possible. He is the protagonist in this novel and the things his imagination does to him, the places he travels with his imagination and the fact that he can take his friends, Brains and Shorty, along is what makes this book a thrilling page-turner. Mr. Magic, the evil imaginary friend, rounds out a well-developed cast of characters. There is action, intrigue, mystery, and suspense along the way. The other intriguing plot twist to Thunderland is the inclusion of complex and well developed relationships between, mother and father, father and son, grandfather and grandson, mother and son, friends, enemies and--most powerful of al--imagination and reality. Though the relationships might not be ideal, it is through the masterful writing of Mr. Massey that we can know this. The brisk pace keeps the book fluid. A few steamy scenes and a few more choice words keep this book out of the hands of young adults, but many who are mature in their reading would enjoy this book, as they can relate to Jason.

     The next time I hear thunder roll on a quiet night, it will definitely bring Thunderland back to my remembrance. The true hallmark of a good horror book can best be summed up by how much the book can raise the pulse rate of the reader. Lets just say my pulse has been elevated with the reading of this novel.