Crooked Hills by Collen Bunn; Earwig Press; 2011; 246 pgs; $13.95 US

Imagine if the Hardy Boys really did investigate supernatural mysteries. And if the books were geared for today’s more savvy readers. That’s what you get with Crooked Hills, the first in a series of YA books focusing on the adventures of Charlie Ward in the backwards Missouri town of Crooked Hills. He’s stuck there on an extended summer vacation after the death of his father, so that his mother can spend time reconnecting with her family. Depressed and at first bored, Charlie’s summer takes an upturn when he learns that Crooked Hills is the most haunted town in America. Soon Charlie, his little brothers, and some local friends and family are neck-deep in monsters, ghost-dogs, and an ancient haunting – not to mention a child-eating witch who would put the hag in Hansel and Gretel to shame.

All while dealing with the local bullies, naturally.

Bunn’s new series has the chance to become the next Goosebumps, although getting the book out on Amazon and into brick-and-mortar stores is going to play an important role in that potential success. It’s a well-told adventure that doesn’t talk down to kids, meaning parents and children alike (it’s geared for ages about nine and up) will be able to enjoy it for what it is – a chilling, thrilling ride that captures the best and worst of childhood. Never too scary, the story provides just the right doses of adventure, fright, and fun.

Bunn has built a grand stage for which to play out future stories – there will undoubtedly be all sorts of legends, boogems, and visiting monsters for Charlie and his companions to encounter in future books, and any kid who reads this first installments is bound to be clamoring for another. Let’s hope he gets the chance to give it to them.

—
Aug 25, 2011

**Please note. You may not reproduce any reviews in whole or in part without the express permission of Horror World and the respective author. Please contact the webmaster with any requests. Thank you.**