Mark Henry -- he's so hot right now!

I owe a lot to Mark Henry and there’s a long story behind that but I cut it from the post because this is about him and not about me :) [imagine story here of how I met Mark and how important he’d been to my career].

So naturally, I’ve been DYING to read his book, Happy Hour of the Damned. I don’t think two zombie books could be more different -- my zombies are old school, his have attitude. I was blown away by his book. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this -- this book is so fun and creative and crass and wonderful. It’s full of lists and recipes and footnotes. The main character, Amanda, is one of the most distinct characters I’ve ever read. And I think that Mark’s best skill is keeping her honest.

I know that sounds strange, but let me explain. The book starts out with a mystery and then quickly meanders away from it (it meanders into things I love like how Amanda becomes a zombie, how she lives -- really cool stuff that’s very unique). It’s tempting as a reader to want to go “Yo, Amanda -- what’s up with the mystery? Did you just forget about your friend? You know, the one in trouble that you’re trying to help?”

You don’t do this for a few reasons. First, Amanda would kick your ass for thinking such things. Doesn’t matter that she’s trapped in the pages, she’ll find a way out. Second, you’re so interested in the world that’s being created that you yourself kinda don’t care. But third, Amanda is honest with you -- she comes right out and tells you that she’s veered away from the mystery and you just have to deal with it. I loved this part of the book because it’s totally self-aware and it plays off its own self-awareness.

I’m not gonna lie -- Amanda can get crass and there were a few times I was genuinely squicked out. But I’m sure Mark (and Amanda) would chortle with glee to hear this because Amanda does love to cause a reaction.

All in all, this book is fun and unique and different. I love what Mark has added to zombie lore. It’s a whole new twist on the world and it’s truly great. Amanda is a character that stands out and that I will not forget (and I tend to forget most characters quite quickly). Mark's created a great world here and he made me laugh. I can’t wait to hear what happens to Amanda and her pals next.

In honor of Mark’s debut and as a thanks for all of his and Amanda’s efforts at spreading the zombie love, I’m giving away two copies of his book. I’ll choose one winner from the blogger comments here and one from my livejournal comments (and yes, you can comment on both if you want to up your chances). To up the ante even more, I’ll add an extra entry for anyone who also links to this giveaway (make sure to let me know if the comments if you’ve linked). I’ll choose the winners next Monday.

And lest we forget, I'm not the only one crowing over Mark's debut -- others have loved it too! He got 4 stars from Romantic Times! I couldn’t be more thrilled at all the positive responses he’s getting. I think he took some risks with this book, I think he pushed the envelope, and I love that it worked so well!!