Writing a review of a portion of a serialized novel is difficult, though admittedly probably not as difficult as writing the novel. One cannot base their ratings and thoughts on a finished product, but only on the experience so far and, pretty importantly, the potential for what’s next.

Apocalyptic world-comes-crashing-down-around-your-shoulders novels like the Stand and Swan Song usually give you a reason for the death and destruction pretty quickly. This is one place the Fearing sets itself apart; kicking things into high gear right off the bat, but ending book one leaving the reader with only a vague idea of exactly what is happening and pretty much no idea why it’s happening.

We’re introduced to a cast of characters, although not an overwhelming amount, that span from inherently likable to immediately unpleasant to mysteriously intriguing. This is where the potential comes in. I have no issue saying that giving this book 5 stars is primarily based on John F. D. Taff giving me a 100 page introduction to what’s next. I want to know what’s going to happen to these characters I’ve already grown attached to. I want to know who’s going to make it and who’s not. I want to know where all this weird shit is coming from. I want to know what the deal is with Adam.

I’m psyched that there will be three more installments and I anxiously await August 20th for Book 2: Water & Wind. If you like apocalyptic horror fiction, this looks to be a very unique entry into the genre and a can’t-miss addition to the horror genre as a whole.