I was way into Rick Hautala’s latest effort INDIAN SUMMER, now out from Cemetery Dance Publications, before realizing that it was a prequel of sort to his popular LITTLE BROTHERS. Now, of all the Hautala’s books, LITTLE BROTHERS is the one that has always managed to escape me. Why? Not a single clue to tell you the truth, since I make sure to read everything this author puts out. Ask me anything about his work and I’ll probably surprise you. That’s how much I know about this fellow from Maine. So imagine my luck when I got my hands on his novella INDIAN SUMMER. It was my first horror piece of the year and, frankly, this couldn’t get any cooler. And did Hautala deliver again? You freaking bet he did.
The story revolves around this Billy the kid who at twelve in the fall of 1961 just wants to have fun—until he discovers the reality of life in the form of little creatures with sharp claws. Yes, INDIAN SUMMER is one of those coming of age tale that pack a punch, and believe me, you’ll need all the hold you can get once these famished buggers are unleashed. Like in any Hautala story, the action sequences are built up by a good character development, which in this case is mostly about Billy. A likable lad, he’s as normal a pre-teen can ever be (likes superheroes; hates his older brother). But it’s his chance meeting with a troubled lady that’ll seal the deal on his fate. Indeed, it’s because of her that Billy will go through his real-life nightmare, one that will leave no stones unturned. Loaded with effective scenes and heartfelt moments, not to mention stunning illustrations (including the dust jacket) by renowned artist Glenn Chadbourne, Hautala works his magic again to create one heck of a fine read. He goes deeper than meets the eye and the effort is greatly rewarded. Don’t be surprised if you come of this with a feeling of dread and lost, for that’s how engaging INDIAN SUMMER turns out to be.
What a thrill it is to have yet to venture into LITTLE BROTHERS after all. It’ll give me another good reason to quench my thirst for more of these scary little beasts I find mostly attractive. I’m sure the author will again delve into their wicked ways one of these days. At least, we hope he does.
In the meantime, pick up INDIAN SUMMER and discover how much fun it is to be in their company—writer, artist and creatures alike.
Until next post—Martin
