I’ve read most of Bentley Little’s horror novels, and they’ve been pretty consistent in what they offer. Start with an interesting idea; race onward in an inventive, typically gory, fashion; arrive at a resolution that doesn’t really live up to the rest of the book, but the ride was so fun you’re okay with that. A typical Bentley Little novel involves something supernatural, and lives in a world that isn’t quite like the real one.
With His Father’s Son, Little makes his first foray into “the real world” in a novel — it’s basically a psychological study of an ordinary man and the way his life spins out of control after a shocking confession from his dying father.
What I liked:
The setup, up until the father’s confession in the hospital, was fairly excellent, and could’ve been the launch of a great book. Still could be, I guess — but it’s just not this one.
What I didn’t like:
Just about everything from that point forward. Characters react to events and undergo changes that are in no way believable. Much of the book’s action depends on what must be some of the most incompetent police forces ever put to paper (the author acknowledges this briefly via one character, then just continues on with it). The book’s resolution is not just unbelievable, it’s fairly insulting to the reader who has dutifully tread through the book to reach it.
Needless to say, I can’t really recommend this book. I do recommend the author, though, so I’ll link below to a few of his better works. If you like any of those, you’ll likely enjoy all of his books except this one. Here’s to hoping he returns to form the next time out.
