I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was happy to receive a copy of The Scar That Bleeds and continue the adventure. The story follows Stu’s descent into madness as he struggles against the demon Solani. The book also focuses on the strains in the relationships between returning characters and the patchwork that connects them all is slowly revealed.
The problem here isn’t with the story, but with the execution. To be honest, this book reads more like a first draft than the finished product. There were quite a few errors in the text and the book would benefit from some line editing. Another problem I found distracting was the qualifying statements following much of the dialogue. The author is showing and telling in these instances, which makes everything feel repetitive.
The mystery investigation of the first book is absent here, instead focusing on Stu’s fall from grace. The problem I had with this is Stu becomes immensely unlikeable for the entire book. There’s no redemption or reason to cheer him on in his fight. I was kind of rooting for evil by the end. I don’t have a problem with morally grey characters, but such a transition from the first book left me feeling disconnected from Stu.
Overall, as the book stands it needs some work. I can forgive an error or two, but more than that is too distracting from the book. There are a lot of clunky passages that are more confusing than informative. The story is interesting and has potential. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend the book in its current state.
Agustin Guerrero 