Official Review: Worm by Erica S. Watson

[rachel_bruhn]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Worm" by Erica S. Watson.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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Worm by Erica S. Watson is a crime thriller. Bethany Johnson is a detective that doesn't know how to stay out of trouble and it's not long before she gets in over her head. Her uncle makes arrangements for her to be relocated to Buffalo, NY under a new identity. Although Bethany wants to return home as soon as possible, she ends up becoming very involved in a serial killer case in Buffalo. As she and her new partner, Geoff Baker, work to solve the crime before anyone else ends up dead, a new mystery starts to evolve. Bethany is not the type of girl to run from danger, but she has to decide if she is ready to risk her life to try to solve the ever evolving puzzle before her.

The story is written in the third person omniscient point of view as the reader follows the actions taking place. The main focus is on Bethany. The plot and flow of the storyline are well thought out and organized. The reader is roped in by the action in the epilogue and compelled to read more as Bethany begins her life in hiding as Bethany Andrews. Watson adds new twists to the story consistently enough to keep the reader entertained and keep the story interesting. This creates a challenge for the reader as they try to solve the puzzles along with the detective characters. Watson seems to have left the ending of the story open for a sequel as the reader is left with more questions than answers.

There is inappropriate language and violent content, so readers need to be of an appropriate age. Worm would appeal to those with an analytic mind and the drive to solve problems. As an avid crime show addict, I was drawn to this novel because it sounded just like the shows I watch on TV. The reader doesn't need to have any prerequisite knowledge to understand what is going on in the story, although Watson uses "CI" and "smut team" to refer to the crime scene investigators, or criminalistics department. Using context clues, the reader can infer who is being referred to in those instances.

I feel that Worm has earned 2 out of 4 stars. The story lacks a polished finish. There are multiple errors that become increasingly more prevalent the further into the story you get. The writing style is inconsistent throughout the book, varying from a writing style seen in young adult/teen novels to that of novels aimed at the adult audience. Sometimes I had to reread parts to try and decipher what was being said. This piece would have benefitted greatly from (further) peer review and revisions prior to publication. My deciding factor in whether to rate a 2 or a 3 was based on if I would recommend this story "as is", errors included. Ultimately, I felt that the errors gave this book an unprofessional feeling and that I would not recommend it to my friends, which is a shame because this is such a great story!

Aside from the mechanical errors, I found the book easy to read and follow. One complaint I have was the ease of identifying the antagonist early on. I enjoy books that give you hints about who the mystery antagonist is, but intentionally lead you in the wrong direction. I was disappointed that Watson left obvious hints early on. As a reader that likes to know all the answers, I found the ending particularly frustrating (in a good way). As I mentioned before, I believe Watson intends to write a sequel, possibly a series, around this character. I feel compelled to want to read more to find out what happens next! I strongly encourage Watson to find an editor for this piece and to write a sequel!

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Worm
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[Jesska6029]

Based on the cover, I thought this was going to be a book on contagion. The book subject matter seems interesting, but it's a shame the overall product was lacking. Great review!

[Tanaya]

Even though the title is Worm, the cover looks like devil horns amid red steam. It's pretty cool, even though seemingly unintended. The font's awesome, too. I'm really liking the cover. As for your review, I found it to be very thorough. Too bad that the book doesn't have a polished finish. Hopefully the author will take your advice.

[rachel_bruhn]

She credits the artist of the cover design in her book I also hope she revisits this piece and continues the story!

[bookowlie]

Nice, insightful review. Like you, I find it frustrating when I have to frequently reread passages to decipher what's being said.

[zeldas_lullaby]

Great review. The cover is creepy. (Pun intended!) It brings to mind my childhood days of fishing with worms as bait.

This does sound like a great story, except for the part about knowing who the baddie is up front. Hopefully the author will improve its delivery!

[gali]

Nice review. Too bad the book wasn't polished enough.

[Levi]

@rachel_jacks I agree with you that these grammatical errors make it hard to recommend a book to others, even if you love the soul of the work. You don't know if others will be as discerning as yourself. This sounds like an amazing story that I would pick up upon further editing.

[EricaSW]

Just wanted to let you all know that originally this was just a college project that I wasn't going to get published. I published it for my mother only to start and got amazing feedback from strangers! I took everyone's advice and hired myself an editor so the book has been rewritten and hopefully the grammar is better. I will be the first to admit that grammar was always my worst subject. I'm good at putting skulls back together and that's about it! I am working on the sequel and making sure to get grammar help there too! The new and updated edition should be available to all those who purchased it on kindle! Hopefully this time it's better!

[rachel_bruhn]

Yay! I will keep an eye out for the sequel so I can tame my curiosity.

[kimmyschemy06]

That was a very honest review. The story sounds interesting but the writing needs a little polishing.

[rachel_bruhn]

Thanks kimmy! I always try to present books in an honest, neutral light. I really am looking forward to seeing development in the sequel.