Here's the bad news: Horns now completes my reading of all five Joe Hill books (not including the Locke & Key graphic series). And really, knowing that is the worst of this review. That and the fact that I am sad it's over. By the way, Horns is the third book released by Hill. Figures that I would finish in the middle (not that it's necessary to read his books in any particular order). Why did I read this book last? Honestly, the description didn't interest me in 2010: "Horns growing from some dudes head. I'll pass." I was right about one thing. Horns do sprout one morning from the head of a man named Ignatius Martin Perrish. Ig for short. I was so wrong about the rest. The story is first-rate. 
 Why was it good? Joe Hill's writing for one thing. The guy makes me believe in the possibility of horns on a man's noggin; that these can in turn cause others to spill their deepest, most hateful thoughts; that the truly evil person is not easily identified by his outward appearance; that sometimes the guy with the horns is the better man (at least for a time). 
 There are a few other things to mention. The book was far more than a tale of horror, or one solely meant to scare its reader after the lights are out. It is a love story, a mystery and a tragedy. I continually sought to guess the outcome of the succeeding chapters, but for the most part my guesses proved to be wrong. (Note: If you decide to read, I guarantee you will want to know the answers. The wait makes these moments special). While I was busy guessing, I had grown to like Ig very much. He's one of the better protagonists I've met this year. Ig is this mix of strength with frailty, a guy with emotions and flaws, take the good with the bad. 
 So what, if anything, didn't I like? I am bothered by a line that reads, "I don't believe in a merciful God". But these are characters speaking in a book of fiction, so it's hardly something that will bend me out of shape. I just throw it out there for fair warning. 
 The Final good news: Buddy reads are an awesome way to experience this book. My partners for this endeavor: Liz, Bill & Paul. Check out their reviews here: Liz's's review, Bill's review, Paul's review. 
 If you like Joe Hill, then don't be like me. Don't wait to read this book later. Learn from my mistake.