Michael has put his characters in a dozen situations firmly based on reality, with language and dialogue to match. His research into occupations, cultures, places, attitudes, gives reality to the bizarre. Everything is all very normal, until it's not. First person, third person, male, female, Michael takes them on, putting them in places around New Zealand and the world, then leading them on a not-so-merry dance macabre down slippery rabbit holes lined with razor blades. The reality, the normality of homes, jobs, families and individuals is frightening because you, the reader, know things are about to turn, but you don't know which way.
Don't expect your traditional creepy tales: Michael's use of modern concepts and topical themes puts his stories in a different class, and he knows about the pace of language. He has mastered the use of the accelerator, gears and brake in this engine of writing, and he takes corners at just the right line and speed.
The book is available online and features a cover by Siori Kitajima.
I have enjoyed Michael Botur's writing since he introduced himself to me some four years ago with a volume of short stories titled Low Life. Since then he has proved his versatility and uncanny ability to get grab and hold the reader's attention, to burrow under the reader's skin. He has even written a children's book about zoology, in rhyme.
The Devil Took Her: Tales of Horror is another strong string to a well-strung bow.
