Christian Galacar

Take one part corrupt mayor, one part serial killer, one part reluctant sheriff, and mix with a small town erupting with rumor as swarms of cicadas emerge from a 17-year sleep. It all adds up to intrigue and a compelling read in Cicada Spring. Galacar excels in setting the stage and getting into his character's heads without needless overwriting. The story is well constructed and every chapter compels you to read the next until you reach the satisfying conclusion. I could see this on the big show more screen. I'm putting Galacar on my list of authors to watch (and read!) show less

I had never heard of this author but this book was so good I'm going to seek his others out. The publisher describes this as 'a dark mystery thriller' and I think I couldn't put it any better. It's an excellent mystery (lots of twists, lots of misdirection, lots of suspicious characters and actions), an excellent thriller (perfect pacing taking place over just a couple days), and it is definitely dark (creepy atmosphere and dark subject matter). The writing is excellent and the author show more expertly places the reader into the setting. And boy it's a good setting - a northern US island getting ready for a big snowstorm. The first chapters drew me in immediately as the author created a very uncertain, and a bit ominous, feeling through the approaching weather and the nervousness and concern of a child. It put me on edge right away and set the tone for the entire book. Mystery lovers and those who love atmospheric winter tales will probably like this book. I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book. The opinion is my own. show less

Engaging, taut story about a local teen raped by the town's mayor with no one but her parents believing her. All the classic elements making for a great read including well-developed characters, believable story line and plenty of twists and turns making for a quick read that didn't even last me thru the following afternoon. Ending might wrap up a bit too nice and neat for some, but given the author's ability to pull you into the story line by putting real flesh and bones on his characters show more such that you can feel their angst makes this one I would definitely recommend and am certainly looking forward to reading more of his works! show less

Some pacing problems that made me feel like getting out and pushing the story forward but otherwise very good horror fiction. Comparisons to Stephen King are both warranted and overplayed. Nevertheless, a writer I will be watching.