"The Night Parade"

Does Ronald Malfi's latest measure up?

If you know me at all, you know how much I have championed the writing of Ronald Malfi. He writes magnificently, drawing readers into his story through vivid characters in horrific situations. He is King-like in his mastery, but Malfi carves his own path. Still, the comparisons are inevitable.

His latest, The Night Parade, does not disappoint. It's a dystopian horror novel about a killer virus. I know... no, this is not Captain Trips. The story isn't so much about the virus as it is about a father willing to do anything to protect his daughter. The duo have many interesting and dangerous encounters on their journey, and there are a lot of surprises along the way.

What I love most about this novel is how Malfi reveals the story. You're never quite sure what's true and what's a lie. The story heartbreakingly comes into view in the final chapters and comes to a conclusion that's sure to leave some readers reaching for tissues (I did).

If you're new to Malfi, I can't recommend it enough. If you need constant action, Malfi is not for you. He builds a story carefully and expertly, and that takes time. There's plenty of story here to hook readers, and it's easily one of my favorite Malfi novels.

Enthusiastically recommend.