A summer to read – "Queen of chaos"

As we dive into the hottest days of summer, it’s more important that we arm ourselves with the tools we need to make it to Labor Day. What tools would those be, you ask? Well, there is the tanning lotion with SPF 2500, or if you prefer, a full body, chemical and biological protective clothing for when you go to the beach.

But also, inside that bag; You must have a copy of Robert McCammon, “The Queen of Bedlam.”

Since I’m not a literature guru and have barely passed each and every English course in my life, I don’t know much about writing. Yes, I know, you can tell. But I know a damn good storyteller when I read one. And Robert McCammon is a great storyteller.

I ran into him many years ago when I picked up his book, “Swan Song,” a story of good versus evil in a world devastated by a nuclear exchange. The story spanned the United States and yet it always felt local. The plot was epic, but the subplot threads dealing with the main characters felt intimate, for lack of a better term. That book got me hooked on this writer.

Since then, I have read all your books. Like all great authors, in my opinion as he is, Robert takes us (me) back into history. His writing attracts me and makes me feel for the characters. The plot must be there, having said that, it is the characters and their development within the plot that attracts me.

For a while, I couldn’t find any new books or stories by Robert. Then I saw a new title, “The Nightbird Speaks,” Part I. It introduced Matthew Corbett into a historical setting in late 17th century America. A woman is accused of being a witch and Corbett must investigate.

It’s a tremendous book with so many characters and so many subplots that I have no idea how Robert kept track of all the characters. I had always assumed that Robert wrote in the horror / supernatural genre of books. I assumed that this plot would fall into that genre. This book transcends that genre. It is a novel of suspense and intrigue. Yes, it is about good versus evil, but all the assumptions go round and round as the book slowly progresses to its conclusion. It is like a force of nature.

It is a very good book.

Matthew Corbett continues his journey from the “Nightbird” to his date with “The Queen of Bedlam.” Once again, Robert McCammon shows his versatility and astonishing talent by crossing genres directly in a thriller.

This page flipper is set in Manhattan in the early 18th century. There is a serial killer on the loose and Matthew must find him. Then the book transforms into a journey of rich characters, hairpin turns, unexpected surprises, and a ton of “wow, who would have thought that.”

For a hot and relaxed day on that beach, this book will captivate your mind and imagination. Your biggest challenge will be not to forget that you bake yourself under a tortuous sun while reading this wonderful novel.