BOOK REVIEW
Thrall
    

Genre: Thriller, Horror, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Writer(s): J.T. McGee
Where To Read: available January 16, 2024, by Valenza Publishing; pre-order Kindle edition here www.amazon.com; more information on the works of Andrew Valenza can be found at www.valenzapublishing.com

RAVING REVIEW: Valenza Publishing is emerging as a trailblazer in the literary world. They are making waves with its first official release, in J.T. McGee’s THRALL. Their first book, EMPIRE OF THE VOID, was self-published, and THREE SHORT HORROR STORIES was put onto Kindle before Valenza Publishing became a registered business. From its conception, Valenza Publishing has been about finding authors with a story to tell who don't have the means, time, or resources to self-publish and don't have the connections to go through a traditional publishing house or agent. They want to give authors the freedom that comes with self-publishing and the quality and presence of traditionally published books, thus creating a new paradigm in the literary world.

J.T. McGee, a multifaceted individual from Saratoga Springs, NY, is an educator in Arts, English, and Religion and a beacon of creativity and inspiration. His novella THRALL, a project nurtured over a decade, is a testament to his dedication and diverse interests, including mythology and crafting Viking-style weaponry. Influenced by the likes of Stephen King, McGee’s journey from teacher to published author is inspiring and indicative of his profound creative potential.

Now, onto the book; as I embarked on the journey through THRALL, I was immediately ensnared by its cinematic quality, sometimes feeling like a director's vision brought to life on the pages. McGee’s crafting of this narrative immerses readers in a vividly detailed universe in Saratoga Springs, where shadows and suspense lurk around every corner. The book weaves a web of crime and supernatural elements, displaying a finesse of mixing various genres.

The opening act of THRALL sets a chilling tone, as a disturbing occurrence at a family's estate in Saratoga unveils a labyrinth of mystery and darkness. The Cross family, central to the plot, is explored with a richness and complexity that adds multiple layers to the story's unfolding drama. Their individual and collective struggles become a focal point, drawing readers deeper into the narrative.

Detective Madson emerges from the gritty world of crime fiction, feeling like a throwback to the classic detectives of yesteryear. Yet, he finds himself entangled in scenarios that transcend the ordinary. As they navigate this complex case, we meet his partner Becker, who helps reveal secrets that challenge their understanding of reality. The narrative's pacing is well-paced, creating a gripping, immersive atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Saratoga Springs, the setting of THRALL, plays a crucial role. The town's dual nature, with its opulent exterior masking a darker underbelly, adds more suspense and intrigue to the story. The vivid descriptions of the town's locales and the atmospheric detailing make the setting come alive, contributing to the novella’s overall mood and tone.

The characters in THRALL, particularly the Cross brothers, Nathan and Gavin, are meticulously developed. Their contrasting responses to their family's surprise legacy and the unnerving events around them provide a fascinating study of human nature and family dynamics. This adds a psychological depth to the novella, making the characters not just part of the story but integral to its very essence.

The themes explored in THRALL – power, legacy, and the supernatural – are combined with a deft touch, inviting readers to ponder the deeper meanings and implications. The novella doesn't just tell a story; it invites introspection and exploration of these themes, elevating it from a detective thriller to a thought-provoking piece of literature.

THRALL is a shining example of what happens when a talented author like J.T. McGee finds the right platform in an innovative publisher like Valenza Publishing. This novella is compelling for crime and supernatural fiction fans, offering a unique blend of mystery, character-driven drama, and a hint of the otherworldly. It's a book that transcends the typical boundaries of its genre, providing a suspenseful, engaging, and thoroughly captivating reading experience. I can’t wait to see the following tales from the world of THRALL in the follow-up!

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[photo courtesy of VALENZA PUBLISHING]

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