Book Review - The Samaritan by Fred Venturini
Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 01:39PM
I recently had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of The Samaritan by Fred Venturini, the debut title from St. Louis-based Blank Slate Press.
The Samaritan is the story of Dale Sampson, an awkward, lonely, and loveless young man dealing with a life of tragedy while coming to terms with an unexplained power he discovers within himself. One part coming of age tale, one part twisted super hero-esque revenge drama, two parts Catcher in the Rye, The Samaritan does what too few novels these days are able – combine character and story into a thought provoking and highly entertaining read. Venturini has created a world that envelops, suspends disbelief, and most importantly rivets an emotional connection between character and reader. It’s a gripping read.
The writing itself is great – concise and compact where it needs to be while still vividly descriptive when necessary. The voice of the main character is unique and heartbreaking, almost scary, and best of all, real. Oh so real.
The Samaritan is darkly tragic, hilariously engrossing, and remarkably spellbinding. It’s available now for Pre-Order from The Blank Slate Press website.
Do yourself a favor and check it out.





