Bed of Nails

You have to give the writing team of Michael Slade credit...no one does the graphic novel as well. This father and daughter have given us the tenth in this series, and "Bed of Nails" is a book to devour. Cannibalism is the main focus in this one, but it's also the intense plot and that charming Zinc Chandler that propel this novel into its dark and blood-curdling ending.Slade gives us another well-researched book, this time offering us information on the various cannibalistic tribes of the world; the voyages of Captain Cook; and even some delightfully trivial information on certain horror films.The addition of the Horror Convention adds some fun atmosphere, as well. While not quite as fast paced as some of his earlier Special X novels, the story is interesting, and even though the identity of the Goth is no real surprise, it does have its twists. At least this time Zinc comes out relatively unscathed for a change.Is "The Congo Man" our next Special X book..the ending with the Ripper certainly forbodes it.Delightfully written, and admittedly gory, "Bed of Nails" is another winner in the Special X series.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Unlike a previous reviewer, I found this lastest edition of the fictional - based on factual - account of life in the world of the RCMP as related by Michael Slade to be another rousing good read.I particularly like the detail provided at the end of each book based on the factual information used in creating the story. I have been hooked on this series ever since the first offering (Headhunter), and frequently recommend this series to those interested in an ongoing mystery series with characters that continue to grow with each offering. They become old friends and I actually become interested in wanting to know more about them. I have a curiosity about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and it has been filled completely by this author. There are few times I have ever found myself re-reading any book - but I have read all of the prodigious output from Michael Slade at least twice and I can't say this of any other current author.If you find yourself in need of a good reading diversion - pick this one and all the others up whereever you can find them and give your brain a rollercoaster ride into the imagination of Michael Slade.

I was once lucky enough to see Slade on a talk-show that I barely watch...I was entranced by the idea of the book that they were talking about (Hangman)...and I have been forever changed for the better. Slade has forever changed this genre. Anyone who has read the very first Special X novel, Headhunter, knows that whodunnits rarely get any better, never mind action, and suspense. And never does anyone come out more smart, having read the book, then by reading any other book. Slade has this weird ability to make anything and everything interesting, amusing and fascinating. Think reading about a bunch of old Zulu battles is interesting?--whoever says no must now read Evil Eye (aka Zombie). But enough about the entire Special X series. Bed of Nails-actually the TENTH book of the series--is nothing less of the greatness which has been set by the previous nine books. It starts off with one heck of a weird chapter which falls into place quite quickly. Slade immediately sets the mystery level on full-blast by bringing in the killer in the next chapter. This intriguing introduction of the killer we remember from the book Ripper (referred, continuily in here as Ripper so there's no real need to have read the first book before) in an insane asylum, starting the spooks off admirably. This book continues off into realms of smartness and experience that only Slade knows how to pull off.I am pissed off that one reader wrote a stupid review of this book. He should have tried knowing the subject more. It's quite common knowledge that Slade writes more infromation into his books than anyone else--and those who do research something very rarely give their sources as Slade always does. The Special X series is a unique interpretation of Canada-problems we can become involved in-and the best psychos ever created. He has garnered himself one of the biggest cult followings possible without really becoming known everywhere he goes. People from many parts of the world have been fascinated by his writing-and many others have had hte distinct pleasure of having their homelands part of the bloodbath that is a Slade novel. It's now time that Slade is let out of the box. Although I take a little pride in being in on this little secret, Slade deserves much much more in sales than anyone else. If anyone wants to complain about obvious whodunnits, there may be a case or two where a Slade book uses one of hte more common whodunnit angles found in many other books. But there's a reason that these kind of books still get published: A) it's not about hte person themselves, it's about what's in the very heart of their soul and B) if you don't read trying to be a little investigator of your own, then it'll be a surprise anyways; the investigation is left up to the characters, not the reader and the writer makes sure it all comes out in due time. Slade is every good part of all the greatest books ever written. He writes well--weaving his suspenseful tales like only

It has to be stated clearly from the beginning. For someone to accuse an author that they don't particularly care for, or find unimaginative to their likings, that they ought not be so harsh. If you wish to be negative, do so, but respect that there are always TRUE fans regardless of your pointless opinion(s). Michael Slade is a forefather of horror! He is a leader of the industry, and hasn't received the attention as some very overrated and poorly suspenseful horror fiction novelist have been given! His writings (regardless of who was under the pseudonym)created fictional stories that were able to transport the reader to such locations that they may/may not have ever visited. Each of his novels take aspects of actual history, and evolve them seamlessly into his work's of art! It is true that authors will have moments in their career's where by they may not live up to previous work. But the fact remains, they continue to push-on to new levels/heights to strive and achieve for their respective "FANS" stories that will be cherished and adored. ie. Michael Slade!The other point to note is; if you are going to BASH someone, take the time to do all the research. Bed of Nails is Michael Slade's 10th book. It is a masterpiece unto its own. The characters from one book to the next have all endured much pain and agony. Unto themselves, the characters have survived trechorous circumstances, and so for the "FANS"; we are all excited to discover what will happen next to Slade's characters.Michael Slade has his followers. And more will surely discover him in time. WE WILL NOT ALLOW SUCH PUNKS TO COME BETWEEN HIM AND HIS WONDEROUS contributions to the horror fiction novels.To those who are wanting a fun thrill and none stop excitement with twists/turns, strong characters, evil plots/villains, and history Michael Slade is the author to be proud of and give respects! Stand aside S. King, D. Kootnz, R. Walker, S. Sandford because a true Canadian in Red Surge is here knocking at your door!

I'm finding it hard to believe that Stone Junction has read the same book as me?!?! Remember the revenge Vincent Price exacted on his critics in Hammer's 'Theatre of Blood'? - maybe Ripper will get him for you Slade!!A terrific book by one of my literary heroes. Well worth tracking down