Book Review- Braineater Jones

Summary:

No memory. No pulse. No clue. The undead private eye everybody calls “Braineater Jones” has an axe to grind. Somebody plugged him and dumped his corpse in a swimming pool. Worse yet, his memory’s gone. He has no idea who killed him or why. But he’s damn sure going to find out. With a smartass severed head as a partner, Jones hangs up his shingle in the city’s undead quarter. When he’s not solving cases (poorly) Jones is always looking to keep his flask full. Prohibition is in full swing, and the dead need alcohol to function. Without liquor they become mindless, flesh-munching ghouls. (In a word: braineaters). Everything will probably be fine. The investigation into his own murder probably won’t point Jones toward the city’s most important bootlegger. And even if it does, it’s not like he’ll risk cutting off the hooch just to seek justice for himself, right? No one man’s life is worth unleashing a cannibalistic orgy of violence. Right? Cracking this case will be a tall order, but one thing’s for sure: whatever happens, Braineater Jones isn’t getting out of this one alive…

What I Thought:

Braineater Jones is a voicy 1930s throwback to pulp fiction novels with classic noir storytelling. If you are a fan of 1. Zombies 2. Private Dick/ Classic Gumshoe stories and 3. A good ole “who done it”, this quick read will not disappoint. Despite this being one of Kozeniewski’s earliest works, his talent for engaging storytelling is apparent. He’s had the chops from day one. This novella should not be skipped over, especially if you’ve read his newer books.

I’m convinced, no one writes voice as well as Stephen Kozeniewski.

Dame in a bar? Nailed it. Pair of legs? Completely believable. Undead pimp? You get the point. Follow the newest member of the recently deceased as he adopts his new identity as Braineater Jones, attempts to regain his memory, and find out why he died in the first place. With a character as colorful as Jones, masterly crafted, consistent, and endlessly entertaining, this is an easy one-sitting read.

Pardon me while I buy everything else on his backlist.

About the Author:

Stephen Kozeniewski (pronounced “causin’ ooze key”) is a two-time winner of the World Horror Grossout Contest. His published work includes the Splatterpunk Award-nominated THE HEMATOPHAGES and its Indie Horror Book Award-nominated prequel SKINWRAPPER. He lives in Pennsylvania, the birthplace of the modern zombie, with his fince and their cats. 

I love reading, and at times I find myself able to take on free book reviews for friends and acquaintances. If you wouild like me to consider reviewing your book, I encourage you to reach out. I am only taking on audiobook format at the moment.