Heart of Malice by C. Billie Brunson starts to rumble in the last scenes of the first chapter, as by then the reader has a better understanding of the mental characteristics of Elvis Proctor (or what he is presented to be), which makes the book intriguing.
As the narrative rolls on, so do the questions arisen and left to answer, and the pace of the novel as the author skilfully displays the characters.
At first, the impression is given that the author is somewhat amateur, by letting us know and deduct things that turn out to be right. But soon enough ,we realise that we are being purposefully guided like docile lambs to all the main events that have been beautifully prepared. The author leaves baits that we so proudly and innocently bite, clues that we “find” here and there, that make us want to continue reading further and further, making the next scene more exciting than the previous.
Although Heart of Malice is a thriller, the author gives a brilliant exposition of the characters’ friendships and romantic affairs, subtly and humorously showing the values of the characters as the story develops.
The plot evolves gradually and steadily, reaching several lateral climaxes and plot-twists that prepare the reader for the twisted, unpredictable, grand finale. The ending is quite satisfying and not at all cliché, and the most appropriate for the entire story. But it leaves us wishing for a sequel that we know we shouldn’t have. The possible continuation of this story, like some things, is better off left in pleasurable mystery.
Pros:
- EXCELLENTLY planned scenes and overall plot
- Amazing detail
- Perfect humour that makes the reader laugh at the most unexpected times, helping to relieve the tension
- Great character interactions
- Great chronological schemes throughout
- Great suspense build-up
- Complex, relatable characters
- Original story all the way
- Very unexpected plot-twists that will leave your mouth wide-open
- Fluid and descriptive narrative that makes the book easy and fun to read
- The book is beautiful and the fonts please the eyes of the reader
- Scenes that make you hold your breath
- No plot-holes
Cons:
- Sometimes the author uses several complex words that make you stop and re-read the phrase or word trying to find the meaning of it
Scribble's Worth 