Quick Take

DescriptionA rash of strange and horrifying births sweeps through London in the new horror thriller from master of the genre Graham Masterton.A SERIES OF STRANGE BIRTHSA young woman is rushed to the hospital with stabbing pains. The chief surgeon performs a C-section, and delivers a catastrophically malformed foetus that is somehow alive...A DEVASTATING ATTACKSewage engineer Gemma is plunged into a ghostly darkness in the tunnel where she works. She escapes, but her boss goes missing in the chaos. He is later found alive... but his legs have been severed and his eyes pulled out.A SUPERNATURAL THREATDC Jerry Pardoe and DS Jamila Patel of the supernatural squad must team up once more to solve the mystery and save the city. But, if they are to succeed, first they must delve into the dark arts of witchcraft...

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Children God Forgot (Patel & Pardoe, #2)

Introduction

"The Children God Forgot" by Graham Masterton is the second book in the Patel & Pardoe series, taking readers on a thrilling journey through London's dark underbelly. With its blend of horror, suspense, and supernatural elements, this novel promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. In this article, we will delve into the book's summary, author background, analysis of views, reasons for recommendation, and reasons for not recommending it.

About Graham Masterton

Graham Masterton, born in Edinburgh in 1946, is a renowned horror author with a prolific career spanning over five decades. His grandfather, Thomas Thorne Baker, was an eminent scientist who invented DayGlo and transmitted news photographs by wireless. Masterton's writing career began with the publication of "The Manitou" in 1976, which became an instant bestseller. Since then, he has written over a hundred novels across various genres, including thrillers, disaster novels, and historical sagas.

Analysis of Views

Creepy and Imaginative: Readers praise the book's creepy and imaginative nature, describing it as a highly imaginative and creepy tale with some great detective work. The strange births and supernatural elements add to the eerie atmosphere, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
Originality: The book's originality is a key factor in its appeal. Readers appreciate the blend of horror and suspense, as well as the unique plot twists and turns that keep them guessing. The author's ability to create a sinister atmosphere and sustain tension throughout the story is highly commendable.
Engaging Characters: The likable detectives and Gemma are praised for their engaging personalities and relatable interactions. Readers feel invested in their journey as they unravel the mystery and face their own personal struggles. The characters' development adds depth to the story and keeps readers emotionally invested.
Suspenseful Pacing: The book's pacing is described as suspenseful, with just the right amount of tension and action to keep readers hooked. The plot twists and revelations keep readers on their toes, ensuring that they are fully immersed in the story.
Creepy Elements: The creepy elements in the book, such as deformed children and sewers filled with body parts, are praised for their ability to evoke a sense of unease and dread. Readers appreciate the author's ability to create a dark and unsettling atmosphere that complements the horror elements.

Reasons for Recommendation

Originality: The book's originality and creative approach to horror and suspense make it stand out among other horror novels. Readers appreciate the unique blend of genres and the author's ability to craft a compelling story that keeps them engaged from start to finish.
Engaging Characters: The likable detectives and Gemma's character development make it easy for readers to root for them as they unravel the mystery. Their relatable interactions and personal struggles add depth to the story, making readers emotionally invested in their journey.
Suspenseful Pacing: The suspenseful pacing keeps readers on the edge of their seats, ensuring that they are fully immersed in the story from start to finish. The plot twists and revelations keep readers guessing and eager to continue reading.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Anti-Abortion Message: Some readers find the book's anti-abortion message problematic, as it presents aborted fetuses as monstrous creatures that can survive in sewers and wreak havoc. This aspect of the story may be off-putting for those who do not agree with or appreciate such a message.
Racial/Gender Stereotypes: A few readers mention instances of racial/gender slurs and stereotypes within the story, which may be uncomfortable or offensive for some readers. These elements may detract from the overall enjoyment of the book for those who find them objectionable.

Conclusion

"The Children God Forgot" by Graham Masterton is a highly imaginative and creepy horror novel that delves into the supernatural world of London's sewers. With its originality, engaging characters, suspenseful pacing, and creepy elements, this book promises to keep readers hooked from start to finish. However, some readers may find the anti-abortion message problematic and the presence of racial/gender stereotypes off-putting. Ultimately, whether or not you recommend this book depends on your personal preferences and whether you can overlook these aspects while enjoying the overall storytelling experience.