by Ashley Turner

"Plank Children"
by Michael Schutz Release Date: October 27, 2020

Review by Ashley Turner

“Time does not heal all wounds.”

A haunting tale of loss and human desperation born of grief.

Plank Children is a captivating novel spun from an untraditional perspective. The story unfolds with a finesse that intertwines classic horror elements of balanced tension; while adding the author’s artistic and eloquent, almost melodic, style of storytelling; creating a haunting tale that stays with the reader long past the final page.

The protagonist Miles Baumgartner’s own conflict and inner dialogue is relatable and easily connected to. His origin, current space, and turmoil of the future are presented in such a fluid and flawless manner, with raw and gritty undertones, that truly bring his character to life. The reader is able to connect to and become emotionally invested in Miles’ journey from page one.

The author has a style of writing that is descriptive and speaks to all of the reader’s senses, so that we are able to experience the journey completely along with Miles. This is effectively delivered to truly frighten the reader as the story turns from grief to terror, and an eventual haunting conclusion.

This is a story that feels familiar in speaking to human grief and the depths of which people go within that desperation, but in a new world and unique perspective that creates and intense and powerful narrative within the horror genre. This story illustrates the dangers that can take place when one destructively holds onto grief, and the dark predators that feed on that vulnerability.

About the Author:
Michael Schutz was born and raised in the frozen tundra of Wisconsin, where the macabre tales of Ray Bradbury and Stephen King kept him warm at night. He's seen way too many horror movies to be healthy. He is the author of the novels Plank Children, Edging, and Blood Vengeance. His short fiction has been featured in Crossroads in the Dark II, III, and IV, Ravenwood Quarterly, Dark Moon Digest, and Sanitarium. He lives with his naughty cat-children in northern California. You can keep tabs on him at michaelschutzfiction.com