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The Secret Life of Souls

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The Secret Life of Souls by Jack Ketchum and Lucky McKee is a novel that delves into the darker side of the world of television and media, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the impact of external influences on a dysfunctional family. The story is narrated through multiple perspectives, providing readers with an immersive experience where they witness the descent into darkness alongside the characters. The writing style, characterized by present tense narration and frequent shifts in point of view, brings immediacy and depth to the narrative, allowing readers to empathize with the characters' emotions and experiences.

Characters:

The characters are well-crafted, showcasing a mix of endearing and dysfunctional traits, with the dog emerging as a particularly strong figure.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is accessible and engaging, utilizing present tense and multiple perspectives, though it suffers from occasional editing flaws.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative explores deep emotional themes and human connections while integrating a dog's perspective into the family drama, culminating in a powerful conclusion.

Setting:

The story is set in a relatable contemporary backdrop, enhancing the narrative's emotional and thematic depth.

Pacing:

The pacing starts slow but quickly accelerates into a gripping and relentless narrative as the story unfolds.
Across from her Bart holds a baby back rib poised between thumb, forefinger, and ring finger as he studies the owner’s manual for their brand-new cherry-red Firebird. Delia munches her charcoal-broile...

Notes:

The book is written by horror authors Jack Ketchum and Lucky McKee.
It features a rotating point of view, giving insight into multiple characters' thoughts and experiences.
The story explores themes of beauty, deceit, and the fragile human spirit.
Character development is a highlight, particularly with the dog, Caity, whose perspective is well-captured.
The pacing improves after the initial slow start, becoming a thrilling roller coaster ride.
The narrative is written entirely in the present tense, enhancing immediacy.
Some readers found the constant shifts in perspective jarring without clear indicators.
The book has a poignant emotional depth, especially knowing it was Ketchum's last work.
It addresses the darker side of television and media, similar to other contemporary works.
The authors’ styles blend well, creating a compelling and engaging story.
Some fans of Ketchum may be disappointed by the lack of extreme violence typically found in his other works.
Despite its horror elements, the book focuses more on subtle emotional struggles rather than overt depravity.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, family dysfunction, and mental distress, which may not be suitable for all readers.

From The Publisher:

A gripping family drama that brilliantly explores the relationship between a young girl and her dog-and the mysteries that lie within.

At the heart of this psychological suspense novel is the haunting depiction of a family's fall and the extraordinary gifted dog, Caity, who knows the truth. As the drama unfolds Caity evolves from protector to savior, from scapegoat to prop, and eventually, from avenger to survivor. She is an unselfish soul in a selfish world-and she is written with depth and grace by authors Ketchum and Mckee, who display a profound understanding of a dog's complex emotions. With her telling instincts and her capacity for joy and transformative love, Caity joins the pantheon of great dogs in contemporary literature.

Eleven year old actress Delia Cross is beautiful, talented, charismatic. A true a star in the making. Her days are a blur of hard work on -set, auditions and tutors. Her family-driven, pill--popping stage mother Pat, wastrel dad Bart, and introverted twin brother Robbie-depends on her for their upscale lifestyle. Delia in turn depends on Caity, her beloved ginger Queensland Heeler-and loyal friend-for the calming private space they share. Delia is on the verge of a professional break through. But just as the contracts are about to be signed, there is a freak accident that puts Delia in the danger zone with only Caity to protect her.

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