The Shaman

by Frank Coffey

Book by

Genres: Horror, Fiction

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

About the author

Frank Coffey is the author of the critically praised humor books The Complete Idoit's Guide for Dumies (sic), The All Time Baseball Teams Book, and The Wit and Wisdom of George Steinbrenner, as well as grownup books like 60 Minutes: 25 Years of Television's Finest Hour. He is the author of four novels, has written for television and movies, and been a book, newspaper and magazine editor. A New York City native, Frank lives in chilly Venice, California and is currently editor/publisher of the sports parody website eTrueSports.com.

Reviews

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an extremely dark and mysterious read. A prof for Aztec culture commits suicide. When his stepdaughter Kate and her daughter Al move into his former home some dark horror begins. Why does everything lead to Mexico and the Aztecs? What is behind the killings in the little American town? Where is the body of Austin Zellmer? Can Al be saved or will she be a virgin sacrifice? Astonishing blast from the past and a good fight between good and evil forces. Also enjoyed the backstory about the Aztecs and their brutal rites and murderous priests. This horror novel has it all. Uncanny story, gory details and a fast pace. You won't put this one down. Highly recommended!

[Douglas Castagna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Typical eighties horror novel. Not that there is anything bad, quite the opposite in fact. We are treated with history and back story of the Aztec culture and shamanism and the art and reason behind human sacrifice. The added history helps create that special verisimilitude I so crave when reading a horror novel, and this one delivers. The story is solid, the gore factor though is low. All in all a very enjoyable read.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book to the point I have read it in two days. I literally couldn't put it down. The story was well written although you can tell it is from the 80's. They did decent horror stories back then. The ending was a bit naff compared to the rest of the book but it was still good.

[Amanda Hamilton · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I recall, I made me think of Stephen King and I didn't care much for the ending because it wrapped things up TOO neatly.