Review: “Murmur” by Patrick Freivald (2020)

I’m always excited to discover new writers, so when I had the opportunity to get a copy of the ARC for “Murmur” from the author, I jumped at it. Needless to say, even though the book was provided to me at no cost, I am under no obligation to provide a positive review.

That said, I can’t express how much I loved this book. The premise is that Davis MacArthur is a world-class violinist who just happens to be bound to a demon who goes by the name Murmur. As demons are wont to do, Murmur is constantly trying to get Davis to commit his soul to the demon so all kinds of mayhem can be released on Davis’s behalf.

Added to Davis’s struggles are his battles with mental illness and alcoholism, exacerbated by constant strife between his mother and his girlfriend, Alisha, whom Mommy doesn’t approve of. Naturally.

Davis is able to see the demon world around all of them, and it’s usually white noise to him and oblivion to everyone else, but occasionally those demons are pulled into full focus, and Davis can’t ignore them. Such is the case when another more powerful demon enters the picture and begins fighting with Murmur for Davis’s soul.

As mysterious and brutal murders crop up, all of which Davis can be tied to, he also finds himself on the police department’s radar, in addition to all the other struggles he faces. The story builds to an epic climax that makes complete sense but you will not see coming.

The one thing I really enjoyed about this story was the unrelenting pace, as it’s constantly traipsing along the high wire, dragging you along for the ride, with only occasional stops for romantic or erotic interludes between Davis and Alisha. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that’s been able to pull that off effectively, but “Murmur” does so without much effort.

This book is equal parts horror, eroticism, self-pity, romance, mystery, and dark fantasy, all blended in perfect harmony. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and will absolutely be digging into Freivald’s back catalog.

“Murmur” is available for pre-sale now on Amazon, and I definitely suggest you pick it up. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: Five Stars (Out Of Five Possible)

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