Struck: 25th annual 3-day novel contest winner! (edition 2003)

Mysterious drifter Finnegan Heller wants nothing more than to be left alone, to chase storms across Canada, and to be struck by lightning. Unfortunately for him, he has attracted the notice of a quirky scientist, a dimwitted intelligence agent, and a violent stalker, and they all want to know his secrets. Struck won the 25th annual Three-Day Novel contest, which means that the story was written in only three days. Despite this, the narrative never feels rushed or small. Instead, Bromhead crafts a driving story with strong characters, a compelling plot, and rich details in all the right places. The result is a magnificent demonstration, not only of the best of that contest, but also of all-around fine storytelling. Don’t miss it. ( )