I don't remember much about this book, to be honest.

All I recall is that I had an absolute blast reading it when I did.

The story was surely good, that goes without saying.

However, the main reason I derived so much pleasure from it was because I read it on the very day I completed my engineering finals.

At that moment, I was no longer a student, but a professional!

No more exams or practicals to worry about!!

I was so engrossed in the book that I stayed up until half-past four in the morning, completely lost in its pages.

It was a wonderful escape from the stress and pressure of my studies, and a celebration of my newfound status as a professional engineer.

Even though I may not remember the details of the story now, the feeling of joy and relaxation that I experienced while reading it will always stay with me.

Mystery Walk truly encompasses all the elements that I hold dear in a story.

It features coming of age characters, which allows us to witness their growth and transformation throughout the narrative. The battle between good and evil adds a layer of depth and moral complexity. The presence of ghosts brings an element of the supernatural, heightening the sense of mystery and intrigue.

The suspense and scares are expertly crafted, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. Just like all of McCammon's works, Mystery Walk is a sprawling and immersive story that I was able to completely lose myself in.

It draws you in with its engaging plot and well-developed characters, and before you know it, you've been transported to a world filled with mystery, danger, and adventure. Whether you're a fan of horror, mystery, or simply a good story, Mystery Walk is sure to satisfy.

SATAN’S GOT YOU!” Falconer roared, his neck veins bulging. “That cloven-hoofed, horned, fork-tongued Devil has got you right in his claws”— he lifted his right hand, contorting it into a claw and twisting as if ripping flesh from the bone—“ and he’s gonna squeeze you, mold you, and make you like he isssss! … And if you’re a guest in Satan’s house and you like the dark, evil place, then you don’t belong here tonight!”

Evangelicalism is a significant theme in this book.

In the 80s, Robert R. McCammon was one of my favorite authors. He initially wrote horror novels and achieved commercial success with Bradbury-ish childhood nostalgia fiction like “Boy's Life.” However, I was disappointed as it wasn't what I expected from him. He then followed with “Gone South” which I didn't read and disappeared for over ten years before returning with “Speaks the Nightbird.” While he was a horror author, I was a fan, but now it seems we've gone our separate ways.

“Mystery Walk” was published in 1983 when he was near the peak of his powers as a horror author. I think he reached his zenith with “Swan Song” four years later. I prefer short synopses, but for some books, the plot is crucial for review. So, here's a clear division for those who, like me, skim synopses.

The story follows Billy Creekmore, an American Indian descent young man living in Hawthorne, North Alabama with his parents. His mother, Ramona, has the ability to communicate with the dead and see a “death aura” around those about to die. Billy has inherited these abilities, which aren't always pleasant. One day, they attend a tent revival by “Jimmy Jed Falconer,” a self-proclaimed evangelist. Ramona confronts the evangelist when she realizes the “healings” are false. The situation worsens after a fire at Billy's school. Meanwhile, a demonic entity is out to destroy Billy and Ramona, and a supremely evil gangster with OCD enters the scene.

Horror fiction is often unjustly looked down upon. But “Mystery Walk” is a complex offering. It depicts a certain type of evangelicalism in Alabama as exploitative. McCammon also explores themes like death and racism. Despite the serious themes, the narrative is fast-paced. My only gripe is that Billy is rather naïve and ineffectual for most of the book. McCammon is a great storyteller, and I hope he returns to horror. If you like horror fiction, especially if you're a Stephen King fan, I highly recommend exploring his back catalog.

I penalized half a star because the hero is a bit of an idiot.

Robert McCammon, Dean Koontz, Stephen King and Dan Simmons - these are the luminaries who have not only defined but also crafted the modern horror novels.

So, "Mystery Walk", a suspense horror tale, is truly a convincing and stunning story, hitting you like a powerful punch in the guts!!!

There are two brothers, each endowed with a powerful supernatural gift. One has the ability to contact and assist the dead, while the other is a healer.

However, they find themselves in grave danger from a malevolent spiritual entity, a demon that will not rest until both of them are destroyed.

If you're eager to know which of them will emerge victorious, then don't hesitate to pick up this book!!!

It's a great and gripping story from start to finish, populated with believable characters, truly a page turner.

You will surely be glued to the pages, unable to put it down.

Dean;)

This is an outstanding book that delves into the profound theme of good versus evil, with a unique twist where the roles of good and evil seem to be reversed.

The protagonist, Billy, possesses a remarkable ability. He can see the spirits of the dead who are reluctant to leave this earthly plane. Instead of being afraid, Billy takes on a heroic role. He selflessly helps these troubled souls by shouldering their mental and physical pain.

The story unfolds in a captivating manner, filled with McCammon's signature style. The vivid descriptions and engaging plot keep the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. It explores the complex nature of human emotions and the power of compassion in the face of darkness.

Overall, it is a great story that will leave a lasting impression on the reader, making them question the true nature of good and evil and the lengths one is willing to go to help others.

This really doesn't fit all that comfortably under horror.

When I first posted about Bethany's Sin, I made the claim that it was my least favorite McCammon work. However, I was wrong.

This particular one is truly the least favorite. It lacks the elements that usually draw me into McCammon's stories.

The plot seems disjointed and fails to engage me on an emotional level.

The characters lack depth and development, making it difficult for me to form any sort of connection with them.

Overall, this work just doesn't have the same impact as some of his other novels.

I was really disappointed with this one and would not recommend it to others.

Perhaps McCammon was having an off day when he wrote this, but whatever the reason, it just didn't work for me.

I will still continue to read his other works, hoping to find the magic that I know he is capable of creating.

It's been an incredibly long time since I last delved into a Robert McCammon book.

As I gradually got deeper into the story, it dawned on me that he truly possesses a remarkable talent for crafting books that are not only compelling but also ingeniously designed to keep the reader utterly hooked, eagerly turning the pages to uncover what lies ahead.

I found myself on the edge of my seat, unable to wait and see which of the two boys would ultimately emerge victorious in defeating the malevolent forces arrayed against them both.

The two boys, Billy Creekmore and Wayne Falconer, are as different as night and day in numerous aspects, yet as alike as Siamese twins in others.

Billy resides in a small rural town in Southern Alabama with his parents. The other children shun him completely, and no one in the town acknowledges his family. This is because his mother is labeled a witch due to her ability to assist the dead in crossing over.

They will only call upon her when her "talent" is reluctantly needed... but avoid her otherwise. When the family of Billy's best friend is brutally murdered, he experiences a strange "calling" to enter their house. Their spirits are trapped and unable to cross over. It is there that Billy discovers his life's purpose. He also realizes that he has the same ability as his mother.

Then there is Wayne... 110% different from Billy. Wayne's family has an abundance of wealth, more than they know what to do with. In contrast, Billy's family struggles to make ends meet. Wayne is the son of a famous evangelist and spends his summers traveling with his father's crusade.

When his father discovers Wayne's supposed talent for healing the sick, Wayne becomes famous. The sick and dying from his father's flock flock to him, believing in his ability to heal. However, not everyone is convinced. Ramona Creedmore and her son see through Wayne and understand that he can heal no one, despite the appearance that he can.

This sets the stage for a rivalry between the two boys that persists as they grow up. Each boy has a unique talent, and each is learning how to use and shape it, while also wondering how their lives should revolve around it.

Both boys fear each other and something they both refer to as the "Shape Changer," a terrifying beast that visits them in their dreams and threatens to kill them and devour their souls if they do not comply with its demands.

As grown men, they meet again and must uncover family secrets and learn the truth about their powers. They understand that if they have any hope of survival, they must unite to battle the "Shape Changer."

I was captivated by the mystique that surrounded the characters and the intricate web of evil and mystery that was skillfully woven throughout the plot. Horror story enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this book.

This book was truly phenomenal!

It chronicles the story of a boy named Billy. Billy inherits his mother's remarkable ability to lay souls to rest and also has a tendency for premonition. Their journey, which is deeply steeped in Native American tradition, is called a "mystery walk."

There is a second character, Wayne. His relationship with Billy is revealed later in the story. Wayne also has a similar ability. However, he uses this ability in a different way. He uses it to increase the offerings to his father's church.

Both Billy and Wayne suffer from recurring nightmares. They both question their purpose and their place in the world. Wayne doesn't realize it, but he, too, is on a mystery walk. And as the story progresses, those walks will cross, leading to a series of events that will change their lives forever.

The book is filled with mystery, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural. It explores themes of identity, purpose, and the power of tradition. It is a captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Oh Mr. McCammon, what fascinating tales you weave!

My McCammon experience commenced a long time ago with “A Boy’s Life”. Revered by numerous readers, this book, however, didn't quite resonate with me. At that time, I thought it would be my one and only McCammon book. Given my penchant for PA books, years later, I decided to give “Swan Song” a try based on the outstanding reviews. This was where things took a turn for me with this author as the book found its place among my top 3 PA books. Since then, I've read several other McCammon novels and have adored them all.

Now, you can add “Mystery Walk” to that list. It is so well-written and so reminiscent of early King (in fact, this book was written right around the same time as the heyday of King). You'll discover shades of “Carrie” and “Dead Zone” in this novel, and though written over 30 years later, a touch of “Revival” as well. The story involves two kids, each possessing unique abilities as we follow them into young adulthood. One, Danny, can “see” when someone is about to die and can assist the deceased who have endured a difficult death to pass over, while the other, Wayne, can heal people of various afflictions and accompanies his unbalanced preacher father on his religious crusades. The entire story builds up to an eventual showdown between the two.

I loved how the onset of Danny's abilities was explained as a result of his Native American lineage. Although the conclusion was a bit lackluster (yet another King comparison for some of his novels), what was most enjoyable about this story were the many interesting detours the story took of both individuals on the road to their encounter. Sometimes you read books longing for them to just come to an end. “Mystery Walk”, on the other hand, had me yearning for more detours and a longer path to its conclusion.

More expanded thoughts are on the horizon, but this particular work has truly ticked a plethora of boxes for me when it comes to the aspects that I hold dear. It is still just a notch below what I consider to be the best of McCammon's works for me, namely "Swan Song" and "Boy's Life". However, it must be noted that those two set an extremely high standard. Nonetheless, I found myself completely enamored with this book. The story had a certain charm and allure that kept me engaged from start to finish. The characters were well-developed and relatable, and the plot had enough twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good read.

Another incredible tale from the master of amazing characters!

This story is sure to captivate readers from start to finish. The author has once again crafted a world filled with unique and unforgettable personalities. Each character has their own distinct traits and motives, which drive the plot forward in unexpected ways.

As the story unfolds, readers will be taken on a thrilling adventure, filled with twists and turns. The masterful writing style keeps the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat, eager to discover what will happen next.

Whether you're a fan of the author's previous works or new to their writing, this tale is not to be missed. It's a testament to the author's talent and creativity, and a must-read for anyone who loves a good story.

An epic slow burning tale unfolds, filled with the intense elements of brimstone and fire. It delves into the mysterious powers that originate from beyond our known world. Amidst this chaos, the complex and often tumultuous relationship of family bonds takes center stage.

The story weaves a web of intrigue as it explores the lengths to which family members will go for one another, the sacrifices made, and the secrets that threaten to tear them apart. The powers from beyond add an otherworldly dimension, heightening the drama and tension.

As the tale slowly burns, it captivates the reader, drawing them deeper into a world where the forces of good and evil collide, and the strength of family is put to the ultimate test. It is a story that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting each new revelation.