Review of GIL'S ALL FRIGHT DINER by A. Lee Martinez

Review of GIL'S ALL FRIGHT DINER by A. Lee Martinez (see his blog)

TOR, May 2005

Low on gas and needing a dark place to stay, werewolf Duke and vampire Earl pull into Gil's All Night Diner. There, as predicted by Duke, the laws of Anomalouse Phenomena Attraction swing into effect. Gil's Diner is a gateway between worlds and the Old Gods intend to come through it. They're now working their way through a teenage girl who combines the evil of ancient gods with the thoughtless self-absorption of a typical teen (once she's goddess of the entire world, she'll definitely pay-back the pretty cheerleader for her slights).

Duke and Earl have their own problems. The diner's owner comes on to Duke who swears to avoid alcohol so he won't be tempted, and the lonely ghost-guardian of the nearby graveyard chats up Earl, who's attracted but certain he's unworthy. Meanwhile, they decide to hang around and help the owner deal with the zombies, ghouls, and other invaders who Tammy sends to seize control of the diner.

Author A. Lee Martinez (see more BooksForABuck.com reviews of fantasy/SF by Martinez) creates a charming world of magical misfits, lonely souls, and everyday horror (I loved the use of a magical 8-ball as a prison). GIL'S ALL FRIGHT DINER is a clever, well-written and completely enjoyable treat.

Four Stars

Reviewed 7/24/09

Buy Gil's All Fright Diner from Amazon

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