August 31, 2009
In Huston’s intense, frenetic and brutal conclusion to the pulp-inspired Joe Pitt Casebooks (after 2008’s Every Last Drop
), Pitt wants to hide in the sewers from the assorted vampyres he’s pissed off, but his old friend, porn producer Chubby, draws him out to try to help a young woman who has been impregnated by a vampyre. Naturally, once he’s on the surface, Joe is threatened, beaten and maimed by assorted enemies. Narrating grimly through the pain, he explores the origins of the vampyre-creating Vyrus while playing Manhattan’s various supernatural factions against each other. Readers new to the series might find this book tough to penetrate (though Huston does mix some exposition into the story), but longtime fans will jump right in, and the fast pacing, sharp dialogue and pulp action will keep them entertained.
October 1, 2009
This is the fifth and final title in Hustons Joe Pitt series (following Every Last Drop, 2008). Starring private detective (and vampire) Pitt, the series, set in modern-day New York City, follows the bloody and violent gang wars between rival Vampyre gangs. Joe has had close ties to the underworld ever since he was a homeless teen, but only now has he sunk so low as to be living in the sewers beneath his hometown. He is nearly ready to give uphe hasnt been above ground in monthswhen porn king Chubby Freeze shows up and begs for his help in finding his missing and pregnant daughter, last seen with her vampire boyfriend heading into rival gang territory downtown. Joe has never really claimed allegiance to any of the gangs, giving him the freedom to work both sides, even though it means being beaten and tortured to prove his loyalty. This grim and gritty conclusion wraps up many series questions, as Joes rivals find themselves facing the final battle. Essential reading for series fans but definitely not the place to start for readers new to Pitts adventures.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)