The Cull by Eric J. Gates

By: Anonymous on Saturday, January 05, 2013

Title: The Cull
Author: Eric J. Gates
Published: December 1st 2012
Page Count: 430
Genre: Paranormal Suspense
Shelf: Review Copy
Rating:  ★★★★

Synopsis from Goodreads:

Amy Bree’s reckless actions result in death and her dismissal from the FBI.

A visit from a mysterious priest propels her back into the fray, as she is partnered with an ex-spy, with fearsome computer skills, and tasked to hunt down and kill the serial killer known as the Blood Sucker.

Their quarry is not what they expect: old, very old, and needs blood to survive.

The body count rises…
and the hunters become the hunted!


My Review:

I must admit that when I first picked up this book I didn’t know what to expect. It looked intriguing so I decided to give it a go. I was pleasantly surprised, enjoying every word that I read. I was captivated throughout the novel by all of the suspense and mystery hidden behind the words. This book is James Patterson meets Dan Brown, while remaining entirely unique.

Gates’ writing style dictates your mood towards the story. At times he uses short, choppy sentences, making the action seem even more intense. Other times his writing is soothing. Yet again, the way that his sentences are put together brings out further compassion for the characters involved. Each section of the novel is written in a way to maximize impact, while still flowing seamlessly together. The novel also remains gripping throughout. Even the parts that are simply background information or descriptive narrative are never boring.  

Based on the background of the novel there are times that medical terminology and techno-babble become very prominent. Without talking down to his audience, Gates manages to use this in a way that remains understandable to all readers, regardless of background. All aspects of this novel were well researched, from technology to medicine to history. There are many twists and additions to fact but there is no data that is completely out to left field. There are also many parallels that can be drawn with the Inquisition, creating a further link with the past. Gates also takes the preconceived notion of vampires (ie// Dracula) and gives it a never before seen twist that re-defines vampirism.

And let us not forget about the characters. Because what is a novel without well developed, interesting characters. The main characters are a pair of female Special Operatives that you cannot help but love. I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that Gates did not use the typical male/male or male/female pairing. I spent a great deal of time wondering “who are you” when dealing with the antagonist (aka the really evil bad guy). He remained a mysterious entity throughout most of the novel so that you cannot help but want to know more. When you finally meet him, he is just as evil as you had imagined him to be.

This was by far one of the best suspense novels that I have read in a long time. I think that I need to go and find another of Gates’ books to read to follow this one.

 Buy your copy online here today!