Guardian, John Saul, 1993
My favorite quote: “Suddenly MaryAnne Carpenter had an uneasy feeling that there was a dark facet to Joey Wilkenson’s personality that she knew nothing about. A darkness she was just beginning to see.”
Notable characters: Joey Wilkenson, a boy with special abilities; MaryAnne Carpenter, Joey’s godmother; Alison and Logan Carpenter, his new faux-siblings; Rick Martin, the deputy
Most memorable scene: I’m thrilled to announce that one of the characters in this book does, indeed, go sailing off a cliff in true John Saul style. I won’t say who it is, but I always wait for someone to go sailing of a cliff in John Saul books and they are always my favorite scenes
Greatest strengths: The quality of writing here is a step or two above some of Saul’s other works
Standout achievements: Its pacing is impeccable. Not more than a page or two goes by without some kind of horrific twisted tragedy taking place … and that’s the way (uh-huh, uh-huh) I like it
Fun Facts: This is one of Saul’s more sciency (rather than horrory) books (though it has plenty horror) and I love it
Other media: N/A
What it taught me: I always pay attention to my own emotional responses when I’m reading, and — for my sensibilities anyway — this book is a lesson in creating and sustaining suspense, in keeping the reader in nice tight grip throughout
How it inspired me: Saul’s prose is simple, straightforward, and therefore, effective. I always return to him when I find myself getting too caught up in technique. John Saul always reminds me that simplicity is power
Additional thoughts: If you’re reading this book and can’t figure out why you keep getting “Livin’ La Vida Loca” stuck in your head like I did, I’ve figured it out: it’s on account of the deputy’s name. Rick Martin. As in Ricky Martin. You’re welcome
Haunt me: alistaircross.com
Alistair Cross 