My Heart is a Chainsaw brought me back to reading horror. There is something about the way that Stephen Graham Jones writes that is so captivating. The second book in this trilogy is long, but it doesn't feel like it (even though some of the last chapters were looooonnggg). It was just as engaging as the previous book, but I found myself not really connecting with characters as much, the exception being Jennifer (Jade) and Harvey. I wanted more of Jade, these newer characters just weren't as compelling.

Perhaps this is the pitfall of the 2nd book in a trilogy, and maybe once I've finished the trilogy I'll revisit this book. Still, this was an enjoyable ride and very well written.

3.5 stars ( )

I have always liked a bit of the thriller aspect in my books and movies and this book seemed to fit that element with it's very high body count and lots and lots and lots of blood and gore almost from the first chapter. I understand that the story and the characters bounce off another book. I picked up this book not realizing at the time that it was book #2 of The Indian Lake Trilogy. I seldom read books in order anyway, so it didn't matter to me all that much. The bodies start dropping in the first few pages and they keep coming at a good pace until the big "body dump” when they really begin dropping like flies. The deaths are all pretty gruesome....so bear in mind that this book is not for those with weak stomachs or the faint of heart. Most of the descriptions are very graphically detailed and all very gratuitous, but what an ode to the slasher genre it was for sure! Anyone who likes their horror done with an extra side of blood and guts will love Don’t Fear the Reaper. If you’re into the slasher genre this is your book. However, if you like horror, but want it a little more subtle, then you’ll probably want to skip over this one. ( )

It took me a while, but I love this book and the series. I can’t wait for more Jade Daniels ( )

Just finished this and I while I really enjoyed the last book, this one really clicked for me and the style of writing and narration all fell into place. While things get a bit hectic and confusing towards the end, the overall book was an excellent read and look into the slasher genre in a highly entertaining story. Jade and Lethe's character development was especially great. Can't wait for the next book!

One final note. The audiobook cast on this one is superb! Get them back for the next one! ( )

A perfect mix of horror tropes, social commentary, and levity, this is a slasher that is bold and entertaining. This sequel to My Heart is Chainsaw further explores the nature of trauma and PTSD, especially since the citizens of Proofrock are still recovering from the lingering effects of the Independence Day Massacre—during which many members of the community where slaughtered on Indian Lake during the annual Fourth of July viewing of Jaws in the first novel. In Don't Fear the Reaper, Jade returns to Proofrock as a new slasher cycle commences and she reluctantly gets drawn into the violence. A serial killer named Dark Mill South has escaped from custody near town right as the worst snowstorm in decades is about to hit and is out on the prowl with a hook hand and vengeance in his veins. And Jade finds herself in the middle of the violence, attempting to keep everyone she loves safe. The only problem, as she deduces from the killer’s unstoppable onslaught, is that “he knows all the same movies we do.”

Jones - in typical Slasher fashion - creates a bloodier, even more thoughtful sequel that ups the ante. And has created a final girl to stand beside the best of them (Laurie and Sidney) in Jade. The ending is just, wow. WOW. It's just perfect.

Recommended for fans of slashers, literary fiction, and great writing. ( )