"Deathday” by David Bussell - Book Review
David Bussell’s “Deathday” is a twisted but enjoyable urban fantasy with light horror and dark humor. After being murdered, Jake Fletcher sets out to find his killer and avoid the normal progression to the afterlife.
Jake Fletcher starts his afterlife career as a spectral detective.
In Deathday, readers are introduced to exorcist Jake Fletcher, the main character of David Bussell's “Spectral Detective” series. Jake is a man with a lot on his plate. His marriage is falling apart, with his wife Sarah unable to stand him anymore. His professional life is not any better. He and his exorcism partner frequently clash because they have contrasting methods and beliefs for their work with ghosts. Just when it seems things cannot get any worse, someone pushes Jake onto the tracks in front of an oncoming train.
Stuck between the world of the living and the dead, Jake must figure out who murdered him and why. His new existence as a ghost does not make things easier. He is still vulnerable and can be harmed by other supernatural entities. Despite these challenges, Jake is determined to track down his killer and get his revenge, all while navigating his new spectral existence.
Imperfect character
Deathday is set in modern London, where the supernatural and human worlds exist together without most people noticing. David Bussell balances the ordinary and the extraordinary well and creates a rich, immersive setting. The characters are well-crafted, with Jake Fletcher standing out as an engaging protagonist. His struggles and quirks make him relatable, even as he navigates the challenges of his new spectral existence.
The author effectively blends mystery and supernatural elements. One of the standout moments occurs shortly after Jake’s death. Reluctant to accept its demise, Jake finds himself in a waiting room for the deceased, surrounded by several dead celebrities. Filled with nostalgia, this scene adds a memorable touch to the narrative.
The story maintains a good pace with enough action to keep readers hooked. Jake’s attempts at investigating his murder are amusing. His methods lead to many humorous mishaps and accidental discoveries.
While I’m not usually a fan of a first-person perspective, it works well in Deathday. We get an in-depth look at Jake’s character. He is a smart-talking, jaded exorcist with questionable morals. His internal monologues, though occasionally over the top, are well-written. Despite his flaws, Jake shows notable growth and change within this short story.
Uncanny worldbuilding
Deathday effectively sets the stage for the “Spectral Detective” series, offering a unique detective story set in a well-developed supernatural world. Bussell’s ability to blend humor with suspense and his skillful world-building make this prequel a compelling read for fans of the genre.
