Combustible Punch
An enthralling and unnerving probe into the complex mind of a murderer
by Paul Michael Peters
Rick Philips isn't a fighter — but he is a survivor
Haunted by memories of a high school shooting, not even the bottle can wash away the gnawing guilt and creeping feelings of inadequacy that batter Rick's conscience daily.
His life has been a mess of broken marriages, writer's block, terrible choices, and the morbid pity of others. When he meets Harriet at a writer's conference, the record doesn't scratch as he falls back — only this time, he may not get up.
Harriet Bristol Wheeler is a dark temptress — and self-confessed serial killer
Harriet has no problem killing — and even fewer issues blending back into the background after the act with the cool, calculating eye of a practiced social chameleon. Manipulative, unpredictable, and exceptionally intelligent, she's Rick's worst nightmare — and the ideal subject for his next book. A book that they are both desperate to write.
Time is running out — but the sadness will last forever
In the vein of Stieg Larsson and Thomas Harris, Combustible Punch is a memorable novel that captivates readers and lingers long after the last page.
Momma Says: 3 stars⭐⭐⭐
Combustible Punch opens with a sit up and take notice scene that had me in high hopes for a gripping thriller. Unfortunately, the pacing slowed down considerably after that. Here's where I add that when you promise an 'enthralling and unnerving" story alongside the title of a book, it better darn well deliver because that's what is expected. Yes, Harriet is a serial killer and the telling of her story had so much potential, but the reality wasn't nearly as thrilling as it could have been. I felt like I was led around from revelation to revelation with no need to guess about anything. The only twist lay in connection of Harriet to another person. That said, the story does have its positive points. The premise is intriguing, and our narrator, Rick, has his share of issues from his past. Those issues don't keep him from being narcissistic and making some highly questionable decisions. In the end, this one wasn't what I was hoping for, but it was worth the read.
❃❃Review Copy provided by NetGalley and the author
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