A review by rgoth
The Burning Men by Will Shindler

challenging dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

There were several aspects of this story that I found genuinely enjoyable, while there were other parts that left me puzzled regarding the characters' motivations. Many of the decisions made by the characters seemed implausible, making it difficult for me to fully engage with the plot. 

Furthermore, I struggled to connect with any of the characters on a personal level; I found them unlikable and, as a result, I felt indifferent about their fates. Their development did not resonate with me in the way I had hoped, which detracted from my overall investment in the narrative.

Interestingly, even though I didn't foresee the identity of the killer, I could see, in retrospect, that the clues were there and quite evident once revealed. The rationale behind their actions felt far-fetched and hypocritical, which is acknowledged within the story itself. 

Despite my mixed feelings about this particular piece, I am open to reading more works by this author in the future. Their writing style has potential, and I believe that perhaps their next story might offer a more compelling and relatable experience.