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Low
Officer Mark Adams is fed up with God, his wife and the legal constraints of his job. He longs for a life he can enjoy and to see true justice meted out.
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer thrown into a deadly moral quagmire, forced to decide whether he will abide by man’s laws or make his own.
Each man is being driven to the edge of his limits.
Both men are on a collision course.
All because something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most? And what will it cost them in the end?
Hell only knows…
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer thrown into a deadly moral quagmire, forced to decide whether he will abide by man’s laws or make his own.
Each man is being driven to the edge of his limits.
Both men are on a collision course.
All because something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most? And what will it cost them in the end?
Hell only knows…
- GenresHorror
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2017
9 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 17, 2018
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
So here's the deal. There are aspects of this book that I really like, and there are parts that didn't really work for me personally. Overall, this is a good story with a lot of potential. I just feel as if there are a few things that would have bumped this up a star for me.
Let's start with what didn't really work for me. Almost all of the women in Low are sex objects. Every female character is identified by her looks and her breast size. Some female characters exist solely for sexual gratification, and I'm not just talking about the strippers that show up at one point in the novel. One male character is involved in 3 relationships with 3 different women. One is purely an affair, which eventually turns into something seedier, the other is a depressed wife whom is all but ignored by the husband, and the third is his "baby mama" who seems to only exist to give him sex when he's had a bad day. Most of the other female characters are sexualized too, and almost all of them have sexual desires they can't control. Duke needs to nix this type of characterization completely. I would have loved to see at least one female character in a role beyond a secretary, wife, or nurse. All of the police officers, lawyers, and doctors in the novel are men. I needed to see even just one female character in one of those roles.
Here's what I did like: The characters of Mr. Phailees and his dog Phobos are well done and a lot of fun. I also liked how real the police scenes were written. The lingo and criminal interactions are so real that you feel like you are actually there witnessing events. The dream sequences are well done too. Mr. Phailees is definitely able to make people experience their worst nightmares. And the description of Phailees in his true form is truly unsettling. There were some tense moments caused by Phailees and Phobos, and I also loved how they fed off of the despicable people they hunted. Those vicious bites will haunt me for days.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I just really wish Duke would write some badass females who know how to take care of themselves and don't need a man for justification. My advice to Mr. Duke is to pick up Blackbirds, the first book in the Miriam Black series by Chuck Wendig. Wendig knows exactly how to write the perfect take-no-shit woman. And he never once mentions her rack.
So here's the deal. There are aspects of this book that I really like, and there are parts that didn't really work for me personally. Overall, this is a good story with a lot of potential. I just feel as if there are a few things that would have bumped this up a star for me.
Let's start with what didn't really work for me. Almost all of the women in Low are sex objects. Every female character is identified by her looks and her breast size. Some female characters exist solely for sexual gratification, and I'm not just talking about the strippers that show up at one point in the novel. One male character is involved in 3 relationships with 3 different women. One is purely an affair, which eventually turns into something seedier, the other is a depressed wife whom is all but ignored by the husband, and the third is his "baby mama" who seems to only exist to give him sex when he's had a bad day. Most of the other female characters are sexualized too, and almost all of them have sexual desires they can't control. Duke needs to nix this type of characterization completely. I would have loved to see at least one female character in a role beyond a secretary, wife, or nurse. All of the police officers, lawyers, and doctors in the novel are men. I needed to see even just one female character in one of those roles.
Here's what I did like: The characters of Mr. Phailees and his dog Phobos are well done and a lot of fun. I also liked how real the police scenes were written. The lingo and criminal interactions are so real that you feel like you are actually there witnessing events. The dream sequences are well done too. Mr. Phailees is definitely able to make people experience their worst nightmares. And the description of Phailees in his true form is truly unsettling. There were some tense moments caused by Phailees and Phobos, and I also loved how they fed off of the despicable people they hunted. Those vicious bites will haunt me for days.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I just really wish Duke would write some badass females who know how to take care of themselves and don't need a man for justification. My advice to Mr. Duke is to pick up Blackbirds, the first book in the Miriam Black series by Chuck Wendig. Wendig knows exactly how to write the perfect take-no-shit woman. And he never once mentions her rack.
October 5, 2018
Having read two other tales by the talented Mike Duke I already knew I was in for a treat. Low is a very clever, thought-provoking story that sticks with you long after you are finished. It has a suspenseful plot with well-developed characters that pulls you in and keeps you enthralled until the very end. His writing so vivid that you are immersed between realms of dreams vs. reality. Mike Duke takes you way down LOW and gives you a horrific glimpse straight into the deepest pits of Hell and if you're not righteous enough you just may not make it back out. Grab this book, find a quiet room and prepare to be blown away, it will have you begging for forgiveness!
January 21, 2019
I have to admit this is one of the very few 5-star ratings I have given. This book blew me away. Now up there with my King and Bentley Little favorites. I will read everything this man writes.
May 6, 2021
This has easily gained a spot in the top 10 books I've read this year. The characters were so real in their struggles with life and their morality (or lack of). Some books make you want a sequel and this is one of them.
October 10, 2018
"Who Knows What Evil Lurks In The Hearts Of Men?"
One might say perhaps, "The Shadow." In this case they'd be wrong, for there is another One sinister entity that knows all too well what evils lurk and within whom they hide. Now, if you're without sin you have nothing to fear...on the other hand, well..This story will have you looking over your shoulder, wondering if you will be next to have to face your wrong doing head on, or off whichever the case may be.
Mike Duke will take you on a roller coaster ride from the righteous side of Heaven to the most fiery pits of hell through his vivid descriptions of his well thought out characters and the right and wrong choices each chose to partake in. Will there be any chance of redemption? And if so, at what hellish cost. Who is the one who will serve justice to the wicked? Find out as you travel through realms of horrific dreams to reality, hate to love and romance, murder, mystery
and intrigue to the church pews and confession...This story will have you second guessing your next move.
Thank you daughter for lending me this terrific read...kept me up way too long.
One might say perhaps, "The Shadow." In this case they'd be wrong, for there is another One sinister entity that knows all too well what evils lurk and within whom they hide. Now, if you're without sin you have nothing to fear...on the other hand, well..This story will have you looking over your shoulder, wondering if you will be next to have to face your wrong doing head on, or off whichever the case may be.
Mike Duke will take you on a roller coaster ride from the righteous side of Heaven to the most fiery pits of hell through his vivid descriptions of his well thought out characters and the right and wrong choices each chose to partake in. Will there be any chance of redemption? And if so, at what hellish cost. Who is the one who will serve justice to the wicked? Find out as you travel through realms of horrific dreams to reality, hate to love and romance, murder, mystery
and intrigue to the church pews and confession...This story will have you second guessing your next move.
Thank you daughter for lending me this terrific read...kept me up way too long.
May 19, 2018
Low is the second book I have read by Mike Duke, and it is quite different from the first story I read (Warm, Dark Places Are Best). And a huge thank you to the author for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review. While Warm, Dark Places Are Best made me squirm and itch and writhe around in my own irrational fear of bugs, Low took me to a place where fear is way deeper. The book is a blend of horror and noir (and maybe a teeny percentage of a little romance thrown in for good measure). The struggle between good and evil is real. And it might not always pay to be good and it might serve us all to be a little evil from time to time. Maybe there is this blurred line between the two in which we all exist?
I love the way Duke writes our main character, Mark Adams, who is a police officer. You feel like you are really there in the conversations (or TV shows if any that you watch have cop dialogue) and it pulls you further into the overall story. It makes sense that Duke knows how to write a believable cop since he was, in fact, an officer! So bonus points already for credibility and honesty to the character.
The pace of the novel is great. I read this in 2 (MAYBE 3) sittings, and only stopped because I literally had to stop and be somewhere or do something that would not allow me to continue reading. There were enough twists scattered throughout that you are never left feeling complacent or that you can predict what might happen next. There is just enough skepticism while reading whether or not this is reality, dream, or something else.
One of my favorite parts of the book was all about Mr. Phailees and Phobos! Every scene with these two really got to me and made me start questioning whether or not I would be at their mercy if I were all of a sudden launched into this story for real. Such creepy and fun characters that really added a lot to the atmosphere of the book for me. And if I wasn’t afraid of being bitten by a dog before, I sure as hell am now! Those are some nasty wounds inflicted!
My biggest (and maybe only?) peeve with the book, and maybe the only reason I am giving it 4.5 instead of 5 stars, has to do with the female characters. They all seem so subservient sexually and emotionally. Sometimes I half expected them to be sitting in the room naked with wine, grapes, and a palm tree branch to fan the men. The way they talked did not seem too believable to me; they almost seemed TOO thirsty and too codependent. I just couldn’t find them credible or believable. I’m excited to read Ashley’s Tale, another book by Duke, to get a different perspective from a stronger female character!
But, that one quirk above being said, this book is still a great read and I definitely recommend it. 4.5 stars FOR SURE! Mike Duke can write a story, guys! I am excited for more of his works (also looking forward to The Awakening) and will definitely be a continued fan as he is bringing a fresh voice to the horror genre.
I love the way Duke writes our main character, Mark Adams, who is a police officer. You feel like you are really there in the conversations (or TV shows if any that you watch have cop dialogue) and it pulls you further into the overall story. It makes sense that Duke knows how to write a believable cop since he was, in fact, an officer! So bonus points already for credibility and honesty to the character.
The pace of the novel is great. I read this in 2 (MAYBE 3) sittings, and only stopped because I literally had to stop and be somewhere or do something that would not allow me to continue reading. There were enough twists scattered throughout that you are never left feeling complacent or that you can predict what might happen next. There is just enough skepticism while reading whether or not this is reality, dream, or something else.
One of my favorite parts of the book was all about Mr. Phailees and Phobos! Every scene with these two really got to me and made me start questioning whether or not I would be at their mercy if I were all of a sudden launched into this story for real. Such creepy and fun characters that really added a lot to the atmosphere of the book for me. And if I wasn’t afraid of being bitten by a dog before, I sure as hell am now! Those are some nasty wounds inflicted!
My biggest (and maybe only?) peeve with the book, and maybe the only reason I am giving it 4.5 instead of 5 stars, has to do with the female characters. They all seem so subservient sexually and emotionally. Sometimes I half expected them to be sitting in the room naked with wine, grapes, and a palm tree branch to fan the men. The way they talked did not seem too believable to me; they almost seemed TOO thirsty and too codependent. I just couldn’t find them credible or believable. I’m excited to read Ashley’s Tale, another book by Duke, to get a different perspective from a stronger female character!
But, that one quirk above being said, this book is still a great read and I definitely recommend it. 4.5 stars FOR SURE! Mike Duke can write a story, guys! I am excited for more of his works (also looking forward to The Awakening) and will definitely be a continued fan as he is bringing a fresh voice to the horror genre.
October 13, 2017
As an ancient evil descends on Pleasant Grove, Mark Adams and Chad Bigleby are pushed to the limits of their morals. Each man backed into a corner, forced to face the sins of their past, present, and future as the city they live in becomes a playground for Hell’s finest.
Mark is a cop fed up with everything; his wife, his job, the lack of justice that seems to spread into every crevice of his existence. He has a lot going through his mind and has some tough decisions to make about the moral path he finds himself on. Chad is a lawyer, stuck in a situation that could find him losing his license. Lawyers don’t make the law, they defend it, and he must now make decisions that may morally bankrupt his soul.
The sinister Mr. Phailees & Phobos are well depicted as the evil in this unique good vs. evil story and are as addicting as any guilty pleasure. Everything from their dialogue, to the subtle descriptions that the author uses to build the characters as the shining beacon of suffering they are meant to be keeps the reader turning the page wondering what they will do next.
Mike Duke has created a strong cast of unique characters with emotional baggage, secret motives, and haunted pasts to expose to his version of hell. How low will they go? Read and find out. You may find yourself asking the very same question. Low is really fun, twisted, and dark with well planned and executed action and chase sequences through a hell that only Mike Duke can create. Low makes the readers think about their own sins and dark past, brings up questions about forgiveness and revenge, and throws in some twisted humor to add to this perfect recipe for a hell of a good time!
Mark is a cop fed up with everything; his wife, his job, the lack of justice that seems to spread into every crevice of his existence. He has a lot going through his mind and has some tough decisions to make about the moral path he finds himself on. Chad is a lawyer, stuck in a situation that could find him losing his license. Lawyers don’t make the law, they defend it, and he must now make decisions that may morally bankrupt his soul.
The sinister Mr. Phailees & Phobos are well depicted as the evil in this unique good vs. evil story and are as addicting as any guilty pleasure. Everything from their dialogue, to the subtle descriptions that the author uses to build the characters as the shining beacon of suffering they are meant to be keeps the reader turning the page wondering what they will do next.
Mike Duke has created a strong cast of unique characters with emotional baggage, secret motives, and haunted pasts to expose to his version of hell. How low will they go? Read and find out. You may find yourself asking the very same question. Low is really fun, twisted, and dark with well planned and executed action and chase sequences through a hell that only Mike Duke can create. Low makes the readers think about their own sins and dark past, brings up questions about forgiveness and revenge, and throws in some twisted humor to add to this perfect recipe for a hell of a good time!
May 20, 2019
Yet another brilliant and yet terrifying read from Mike Duke. I was sent a copy in exchange for my honest thoughts and right from the start I knew I was going to loose sleep. The good kind. Facing the devil is better than going to sleep, or so I've learned from books like this. What a brilliant read. Mike has created these characters that open up to you as the reader and you are conflicted if they do deserve what is intended for them or not. Through out this book, I found my self plying Devil's advocate with Officer Mark Adams, and scenarios that made me stop in my tracks and think bout the situation. This book blew my mind. I honestly don't even know where to begin. There's nothing but praise for LOW by MIKE DUKE. There were moments where I found myself relating to characters, and then fearing for them. Not only has Mike created a great story, his writing alone in this was superb. The way he describes things, noises and feelings is brilliant. Felt like was right there. That's what made it terrifying. I just wanted to get in a car and leave, but stay and see how things play out. What a page turner. Travelling back and forth between characters, and when they are dreaming and reality. This was gory, bloody, and parts that i couldn't help but laugh. One Hell of a read. Pun intended.
Something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most? And what will it cost them in the end?
Hell only knows…
Something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most? And what will it cost them in the end?
Hell only knows…
September 29, 2017
Wow...another most awesome story from the genius mind of Mike Duke! I know that may sound a little over the top, but if you have already read anything by him, you will know what I mean....and if you haven't, then you are in for a treat!!! His writing is so real, rich, vibrant and dark at the same time.
So, how low do you think you would go to get something or someone you want? What if you were made to pay for them....with your life? This question just barely scratches the surface of this terrifying, thought provoking tale of the most ultimate retribution. Mike Duke weaves such a rich, dark, horrifying and sometimes humorous concoction of characters and storylines that really make you think about what makes people tick, what people will do to scratch that itch.
Hope I never get to meet Mr. Phailees and Phobos!!! God knows I may have done some things that are retribution worthy...haven't we all?
So, how low do you think you would go to get something or someone you want? What if you were made to pay for them....with your life? This question just barely scratches the surface of this terrifying, thought provoking tale of the most ultimate retribution. Mike Duke weaves such a rich, dark, horrifying and sometimes humorous concoction of characters and storylines that really make you think about what makes people tick, what people will do to scratch that itch.
Hope I never get to meet Mr. Phailees and Phobos!!! God knows I may have done some things that are retribution worthy...haven't we all?
September 29, 2017
Reviewed by: Demetrius Svette
*This book was provided for an honest review
Have you ever hidden anything from someone, trying to keep that secret? That secret could possibly be a sin- a true ungodly sin at that. Maybe you might have slipped through the cracks and you are free from any justice that comes your way. What if though, deep in the back of your mind, what you did you are sorry for and you beg for forgiveness. In some eyes, unfortunately you are too late. Possibly no one cares about the justice that needs to be acted upon you for committing these sins. Sooner or later, we all pay for our crimes and secrets; one way or the other. By the act of God testing you or even the path being twisted in a knot, stopping you in a frantic state and making you commit the ultimate sin of all, walking into darkness not wanting to own up to what you have done. Scared, knowing that everyone will judge you for it. The ultimate judge that Mike Duke has created within the pages of hell itself, lies within this incredible tale of Low. The Judge that will defy your path for what you have done in your life. So let me ask you this- have you committed any sins lately? We all have some point of time. Did you slip through the cracks and get away from any heinous act you have done in your past? Then I advise you to beg for mercy… before it’s too late.
Welcome to Pleasant Grove, where strange things are happening in the foot of the city as Officer Adams, your main character, goes patrolling. There, he is faced with a series of unfortunate madness rampaging in his city- which he seems to always be in the middle of; he notices there is a strange new person in city that turns up every now and then, an old homeless man with his dog. A believer of Justice and a believer of honesty, Adams will be tested on his faith through the acts that happen in front of his eyes. There are a lot of different characters to keep up with in this filthy city that is filled with sin: Officer Adams, well Mark Adams to his wife Amy (which are in a bumpy state and trying to patch things back together since a bad accident that happened when Amy was pregnant), you have Chad Bigleby- who works at a law firm and will try anything and everything in his power to be better and rise to the top; even if that means blackmailing someone. He also will do anything for his child, as any father would naturally do. What happens when Chad takes it too far? What happens when this city is over ran by sin and heinous acts? Who will stop them from continuing their rampage? Find out and see in every chapter; there is a story of hell waiting, for you to experience the city of Pleasant Grove. I cannot just tell you everything that happens in this great story. You have to experience the ride of how low it can get. Literally. Now go forth humans… and remember to consult with your pastor by the end of the book.
There is a lot more to name in this creation by Mike Duke- it is filled with top notch, amazing characters from start to finish. You have a lot in the city called Pleasant Grove that slowly turns to violence, increasing day after day. Also, there is the art of temptation. Pleasant Grove reminds me of a Gotham City without a Batman in a Horror setting, mixed with the reminder of faith. Low is a combination of Seven- yes, the movie- with the notch cranked all the way up, bringing hell itself into a cocktail mixture with all the great masterminded fight scenes that we get from Duke himself. His telling makes you feel like you are actually participating in the fight itself. I have had the fortunate time of reading pretty much everything Mike Duke has written, most were novellas and short stories, which got me interested from the get go- waiting patiently, my fingers trembling, wanting a taste from his full length novel. He made me happy, paranoid, and faithful for who I am as I finished and finally closed this book called Low. I have to say that I am forever a fan of Mike Duke, on the level of an addict as his words and paragraphs that turn into chapters, filling into a short story, a novella, or a full length book- it is my crack. Mike Duke made me feel that for the rest of my life, I will always think twice or consult before committing any sin that I could commit- making me a better person inside, truly bringing the faith into me from honesty and not becoming so Low.
*This book was provided for an honest review
Have you ever hidden anything from someone, trying to keep that secret? That secret could possibly be a sin- a true ungodly sin at that. Maybe you might have slipped through the cracks and you are free from any justice that comes your way. What if though, deep in the back of your mind, what you did you are sorry for and you beg for forgiveness. In some eyes, unfortunately you are too late. Possibly no one cares about the justice that needs to be acted upon you for committing these sins. Sooner or later, we all pay for our crimes and secrets; one way or the other. By the act of God testing you or even the path being twisted in a knot, stopping you in a frantic state and making you commit the ultimate sin of all, walking into darkness not wanting to own up to what you have done. Scared, knowing that everyone will judge you for it. The ultimate judge that Mike Duke has created within the pages of hell itself, lies within this incredible tale of Low. The Judge that will defy your path for what you have done in your life. So let me ask you this- have you committed any sins lately? We all have some point of time. Did you slip through the cracks and get away from any heinous act you have done in your past? Then I advise you to beg for mercy… before it’s too late.
Welcome to Pleasant Grove, where strange things are happening in the foot of the city as Officer Adams, your main character, goes patrolling. There, he is faced with a series of unfortunate madness rampaging in his city- which he seems to always be in the middle of; he notices there is a strange new person in city that turns up every now and then, an old homeless man with his dog. A believer of Justice and a believer of honesty, Adams will be tested on his faith through the acts that happen in front of his eyes. There are a lot of different characters to keep up with in this filthy city that is filled with sin: Officer Adams, well Mark Adams to his wife Amy (which are in a bumpy state and trying to patch things back together since a bad accident that happened when Amy was pregnant), you have Chad Bigleby- who works at a law firm and will try anything and everything in his power to be better and rise to the top; even if that means blackmailing someone. He also will do anything for his child, as any father would naturally do. What happens when Chad takes it too far? What happens when this city is over ran by sin and heinous acts? Who will stop them from continuing their rampage? Find out and see in every chapter; there is a story of hell waiting, for you to experience the city of Pleasant Grove. I cannot just tell you everything that happens in this great story. You have to experience the ride of how low it can get. Literally. Now go forth humans… and remember to consult with your pastor by the end of the book.
There is a lot more to name in this creation by Mike Duke- it is filled with top notch, amazing characters from start to finish. You have a lot in the city called Pleasant Grove that slowly turns to violence, increasing day after day. Also, there is the art of temptation. Pleasant Grove reminds me of a Gotham City without a Batman in a Horror setting, mixed with the reminder of faith. Low is a combination of Seven- yes, the movie- with the notch cranked all the way up, bringing hell itself into a cocktail mixture with all the great masterminded fight scenes that we get from Duke himself. His telling makes you feel like you are actually participating in the fight itself. I have had the fortunate time of reading pretty much everything Mike Duke has written, most were novellas and short stories, which got me interested from the get go- waiting patiently, my fingers trembling, wanting a taste from his full length novel. He made me happy, paranoid, and faithful for who I am as I finished and finally closed this book called Low. I have to say that I am forever a fan of Mike Duke, on the level of an addict as his words and paragraphs that turn into chapters, filling into a short story, a novella, or a full length book- it is my crack. Mike Duke made me feel that for the rest of my life, I will always think twice or consult before committing any sin that I could commit- making me a better person inside, truly bringing the faith into me from honesty and not becoming so Low.
September 3, 2020
A well-paced novel of brooding supernatural suspense with some genuinely powerful moments.
I won't bother with recapping the synopsis. This was a sort of supernatural police procedural, replete with shapeshifting demons and some gory moments, though not overly so. There is a heavy undercurrent of theological philosophy throughout, that serves the story and the characters well. We get a solid three dimensions out of most of our characters, though at the same time we know what the character will ultimately choose in the end, right or wrong. This isn't so much a flaw, but it stood out. I never felt that our hero was going to make the wrong choices when it came down to it...he was just too noble. Sure, he's tempted, but you could feel he was righteous underneath so there was no real threat he would fall prey to temptations. The human baddie, on the other hand, I felt was handled extremely well. He's vile in so many ways, but the side story about his kid really added some depth to him and his motivations, and I applaud Duke for his drawing of this character. It was terrific.
The pacing is solid, never balls to the wall, but it does ramp up a few times to some exciting moments. You can tell Duke knows his stuff (he was a cop for years), so the procedural aspect of the story feels very realistic. I don't mind less realistic depictions (and I'd wager your average reader wouldn't either), but you can just tell when someone really knows of what they speak. Great crime/procedural writers like Michael Connelly are able to take a layman and transport them to a life of public service in such a way there's never any doubt in the reader's mind that they nailed it. Duke manages the same level of realism in that aspect of this novel, and it helped add legitimacy to the supernatural side of things.
The climax is good. I'd have liked a bit more of the buildup to it, a bit more nail-biting suspense before it popped off, but that's a personal thing. And the triumph at the end actually threatened to move me to tears, made me reflect some on my own faith and what I believe in, and it moved me.
All in all, this is a very good book, one I'd easily recommend to most readers who don't openly and savagely hate Christianity. It isn't preachy, isn't religious fiction, this is still an R-rated horror novel, but it treats religion fairly and doesn't cast it in a negative light, which was refreshing.
I say check it out. I think you'll have a hell of a good time.
I won't bother with recapping the synopsis. This was a sort of supernatural police procedural, replete with shapeshifting demons and some gory moments, though not overly so. There is a heavy undercurrent of theological philosophy throughout, that serves the story and the characters well. We get a solid three dimensions out of most of our characters, though at the same time we know what the character will ultimately choose in the end, right or wrong. This isn't so much a flaw, but it stood out. I never felt that our hero was going to make the wrong choices when it came down to it...he was just too noble. Sure, he's tempted, but you could feel he was righteous underneath so there was no real threat he would fall prey to temptations. The human baddie, on the other hand, I felt was handled extremely well. He's vile in so many ways, but the side story about his kid really added some depth to him and his motivations, and I applaud Duke for his drawing of this character. It was terrific.
The pacing is solid, never balls to the wall, but it does ramp up a few times to some exciting moments. You can tell Duke knows his stuff (he was a cop for years), so the procedural aspect of the story feels very realistic. I don't mind less realistic depictions (and I'd wager your average reader wouldn't either), but you can just tell when someone really knows of what they speak. Great crime/procedural writers like Michael Connelly are able to take a layman and transport them to a life of public service in such a way there's never any doubt in the reader's mind that they nailed it. Duke manages the same level of realism in that aspect of this novel, and it helped add legitimacy to the supernatural side of things.
The climax is good. I'd have liked a bit more of the buildup to it, a bit more nail-biting suspense before it popped off, but that's a personal thing. And the triumph at the end actually threatened to move me to tears, made me reflect some on my own faith and what I believe in, and it moved me.
All in all, this is a very good book, one I'd easily recommend to most readers who don't openly and savagely hate Christianity. It isn't preachy, isn't religious fiction, this is still an R-rated horror novel, but it treats religion fairly and doesn't cast it in a negative light, which was refreshing.
I say check it out. I think you'll have a hell of a good time.
August 2, 2019
This is the first book by Mike Duke that I have read, so I am completely new to his work - however it didn't take me long to realise that he is a solid writer.
I enjoyed Low, a story that explores good Vs evil and the depths that human beings will go to when desperate. It's a story that flows at a solid pace, with enough dark themes and creepy atmosphere to satisfy most horror fans.
The story follows Mark Adams (an unhappy cop) and Chad Bigleby (lawyer), and a sinister evil in the form of Mr. Phailees & Phobos (who seek to take and destroy the lives of people as payment for their sins). The characters in this novel are made to face the biggest questions life can throw at them regarding death, sin, temptation and the reality of facing the consequences of their actions.
The characters are written with such detail and authenticity that they feel all-too real, as if the author himself had somehow lived the lives he writes about. To some extent this may be true, as the writer himself admits having spent years working as a cop. His life experience obviously flavours his ability to flesh out the characters in this story and he does a good job at lifting them from the pages into something very real and almost tangible.
I enjoyed how this story make me think; in a way I would say it's quite a philosophical read – it's certainly not a light book but one that explores the deepest spiritual aspects of humans and what we might face if we give in to darkness during our time here on earth. Although it's a story that has layers and gives the reader food for thought, there are enough unsettling scenes throughout the story to keep an avid fan of the horror genre happy.
Unfortunately my reading of the novel was quite disjointed due to various review commitments and ongoing book projects, so I kept getting out of the flow of the tale, but I found myself able to sink back into the world that Mike Duke created when I picked the book up, and it was never long before I found myself caught up in the tension of his story.
All in all, it was a solid and creepy book.
The characters felt very real, it was well written, there were many creepy scenes throughout and the story itself managed to travel into some very age-old theological subjects.
I recommend Low, and I give it 4 out of 5.
I enjoyed Low, a story that explores good Vs evil and the depths that human beings will go to when desperate. It's a story that flows at a solid pace, with enough dark themes and creepy atmosphere to satisfy most horror fans.
The story follows Mark Adams (an unhappy cop) and Chad Bigleby (lawyer), and a sinister evil in the form of Mr. Phailees & Phobos (who seek to take and destroy the lives of people as payment for their sins). The characters in this novel are made to face the biggest questions life can throw at them regarding death, sin, temptation and the reality of facing the consequences of their actions.
The characters are written with such detail and authenticity that they feel all-too real, as if the author himself had somehow lived the lives he writes about. To some extent this may be true, as the writer himself admits having spent years working as a cop. His life experience obviously flavours his ability to flesh out the characters in this story and he does a good job at lifting them from the pages into something very real and almost tangible.
I enjoyed how this story make me think; in a way I would say it's quite a philosophical read – it's certainly not a light book but one that explores the deepest spiritual aspects of humans and what we might face if we give in to darkness during our time here on earth. Although it's a story that has layers and gives the reader food for thought, there are enough unsettling scenes throughout the story to keep an avid fan of the horror genre happy.
Unfortunately my reading of the novel was quite disjointed due to various review commitments and ongoing book projects, so I kept getting out of the flow of the tale, but I found myself able to sink back into the world that Mike Duke created when I picked the book up, and it was never long before I found myself caught up in the tension of his story.
All in all, it was a solid and creepy book.
The characters felt very real, it was well written, there were many creepy scenes throughout and the story itself managed to travel into some very age-old theological subjects.
I recommend Low, and I give it 4 out of 5.
November 28, 2018
Thank you Mike for sending me a signed copy in exchange for an honest review!
Low is the second book I've read by Mike Duke, the first one being Warm, Dark Places Are Best. Low is a totally different type of horror that feeds on sins!
So here is the synopsis!
Officer Mark Adams is fed up with God, his wife and the legal constraints of his job. He longs for a life he can enjoy and to see true justice meted out.
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer thrown into a deadly moral quagmire, forced to decide whether he will abide by man's laws or make his own.
Each man is being driven to the edge of his limits. Both men are on a collision course.
All because something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most?...
I absolutely love Duke's writing style with this book! The main character Mark Adams is totally believable and in my opinion very likable. No wonder he's so believable since Duke was a police officer for 12 years!
I enjoyed the pace of the book as well, not too slow but still builds the story and had me totally hooked and wanting to know what was going to happen! I love a book where you have absolutely no clue how it will end.
Some other characters I loved were Mr. Phailees and Phobos! I loved Mr. Phailees personality and they are totally scary, I know I wouldn't want them after me!
One thing that I've heard and have seen in some reviews is that people didn't like the female characters or wished there was a strong female presence. While I too LOVE strong female characters I don't need it to enjoy a book.
I also got a bit emotional in the end with Adams and his wife. It hit home a bit for me and I found myself in tears a little which I was not expecting from this story. Well done Mike!
"I withdrew. I avoided her. I punished her by withholding my presence...... Our collapse was inevitable, both of us holding onto our animosity, our rights, entitled to our own pain and rage, unwilling to forgive, unwilling to love as we should have, as we used to."
Low is the second book I've read by Mike Duke, the first one being Warm, Dark Places Are Best. Low is a totally different type of horror that feeds on sins!
So here is the synopsis!
Officer Mark Adams is fed up with God, his wife and the legal constraints of his job. He longs for a life he can enjoy and to see true justice meted out.
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer thrown into a deadly moral quagmire, forced to decide whether he will abide by man's laws or make his own.
Each man is being driven to the edge of his limits. Both men are on a collision course.
All because something wicked has arrived in Pleasant Grove, something ancient and obsessed with vengeance, eager to punish the souls of men for their sins.
How LOW will they go to get what they desire most?...
I absolutely love Duke's writing style with this book! The main character Mark Adams is totally believable and in my opinion very likable. No wonder he's so believable since Duke was a police officer for 12 years!
I enjoyed the pace of the book as well, not too slow but still builds the story and had me totally hooked and wanting to know what was going to happen! I love a book where you have absolutely no clue how it will end.
Some other characters I loved were Mr. Phailees and Phobos! I loved Mr. Phailees personality and they are totally scary, I know I wouldn't want them after me!
One thing that I've heard and have seen in some reviews is that people didn't like the female characters or wished there was a strong female presence. While I too LOVE strong female characters I don't need it to enjoy a book.
I also got a bit emotional in the end with Adams and his wife. It hit home a bit for me and I found myself in tears a little which I was not expecting from this story. Well done Mike!
"I withdrew. I avoided her. I punished her by withholding my presence...... Our collapse was inevitable, both of us holding onto our animosity, our rights, entitled to our own pain and rage, unwilling to forgive, unwilling to love as we should have, as we used to."
August 12, 2018
I received a copy of LOW by Mike Duke in the mail a few months back and I’ve finally finished reading it–my health has gotten in the way not just once, but twice. For the most part, I enjoyed reading the book, but I do have a single bone to pick with it. You’ll see that towards the end of my review.
The two main characters are Mark Adams and Chad Bigleby. While Adams is a bit flat, Chad Bigleby is dynamic. Officer Adams is a good guy, through and through and does what’s right. Chad, on the other hand, is a man with no moral conscience. He’s a cheater, an abuser, and all around, a piece of shit. Mr. Phailees and Phobos are real pieces of work, showing that Duke’s definitely got the ability to create some pretty crazy characters.
Plotwise, the book is steady. There’s always something going on, even in the lulls between major events. That said, you might wonder why it took me so long to read the book if I found it interesting, and in that regard, I admit that I’ve been in a bit of a slump when it comes to reading. On top of that, I’ve had some severe concentration issues as of late.
I loved the way Duke writes his monsters. Some of them have a Lovecraftian feel to them, which I really like. Others are horrifying in other ways, such as Charon and Mortis which are demon-like and massive in their appearance.
Earlier I said I have a bone to pick, and here it is: the women in this book are unbelievably unrealistic. It’s because of this that I cannot give LOW a five-star rating. None of them are strong or independent, and for the most part, they seem like puppets controlled by their men. I would have liked to see Samantha stand up to Chad, or Amy grow a backbone despite her mistakes. It’s actually quite appalling how meek and sexualized the female characters are in this book. Granted, one of the points of view is from a misogynistic asshole of a man.
LOW is a good book and definitely falls into the horror category. In its pages, Mike Duke’s command of language is strong and his words come together beautifully to create a horrifying scene. It makes the reader question their own morality and wonder whether or not their sins would be so grievous as to be judged by Mr. Phailees. I know one thing for sure: I wouldn’t want to be at the wrong end of his bite.
I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
The two main characters are Mark Adams and Chad Bigleby. While Adams is a bit flat, Chad Bigleby is dynamic. Officer Adams is a good guy, through and through and does what’s right. Chad, on the other hand, is a man with no moral conscience. He’s a cheater, an abuser, and all around, a piece of shit. Mr. Phailees and Phobos are real pieces of work, showing that Duke’s definitely got the ability to create some pretty crazy characters.
Plotwise, the book is steady. There’s always something going on, even in the lulls between major events. That said, you might wonder why it took me so long to read the book if I found it interesting, and in that regard, I admit that I’ve been in a bit of a slump when it comes to reading. On top of that, I’ve had some severe concentration issues as of late.
I loved the way Duke writes his monsters. Some of them have a Lovecraftian feel to them, which I really like. Others are horrifying in other ways, such as Charon and Mortis which are demon-like and massive in their appearance.
Earlier I said I have a bone to pick, and here it is: the women in this book are unbelievably unrealistic. It’s because of this that I cannot give LOW a five-star rating. None of them are strong or independent, and for the most part, they seem like puppets controlled by their men. I would have liked to see Samantha stand up to Chad, or Amy grow a backbone despite her mistakes. It’s actually quite appalling how meek and sexualized the female characters are in this book. Granted, one of the points of view is from a misogynistic asshole of a man.
LOW is a good book and definitely falls into the horror category. In its pages, Mike Duke’s command of language is strong and his words come together beautifully to create a horrifying scene. It makes the reader question their own morality and wonder whether or not their sins would be so grievous as to be judged by Mr. Phailees. I know one thing for sure: I wouldn’t want to be at the wrong end of his bite.
I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2018
Not bad for a philosophical horror!
This book is a fun ride! We follow Mr. Philbee and his "pet" Phobos throughout the book, cheering him on for "cleansing" the town of all the less than desirable characters, while cringing at the things the duo does to them.
We also follow Adams, a good guy cop, as he tries to figure out just what the hell is going on in his town.
The law enforcement scenes are realistic, full of cop lingo, procedures, etc... This made for an exciting read!
My only problem with this book, why it didn't earn 5 stars, is how the author portrayed ALL the women. It bothered me enough that oftentimes I just wanted to scream! Every one of them werr sexualized, made inferior, none of them really having balls, so to speak. Not a single one held a high-ranked positions; we have nurses, secretaries, etc.. No female doctors, lawyers, or even a female cop! That grinds at me. A lot.
But still, this book was fun and enjoyable. I just hope the author will change that one little thing for his next books - don't make the women so small!
This book is a fun ride! We follow Mr. Philbee and his "pet" Phobos throughout the book, cheering him on for "cleansing" the town of all the less than desirable characters, while cringing at the things the duo does to them.
We also follow Adams, a good guy cop, as he tries to figure out just what the hell is going on in his town.
The law enforcement scenes are realistic, full of cop lingo, procedures, etc... This made for an exciting read!
My only problem with this book, why it didn't earn 5 stars, is how the author portrayed ALL the women. It bothered me enough that oftentimes I just wanted to scream! Every one of them werr sexualized, made inferior, none of them really having balls, so to speak. Not a single one held a high-ranked positions; we have nurses, secretaries, etc.. No female doctors, lawyers, or even a female cop! That grinds at me. A lot.
But still, this book was fun and enjoyable. I just hope the author will change that one little thing for his next books - don't make the women so small!
December 16, 2017
Life wasn't going well for police officer Mark Adams, his marriage was on the rocks and he was fed up with the limitations of his job. He was tired of busting criminals just to see them return to the streets to wreak havoc. Officer Adams respects the law and has high moral standards but there are some people who deal with the law that have lower standards.
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer who would be considered a shade of grey when it comes to morals. He is married and has a couple of mistresses, he has a son out of wedlock and he would do anything for him. This includes blackmailing someone so he can get a big pay day. What Chad doesn't know is he is about to be held accountable for all his sins because something evil has arrived in town and its going to put Chad and Mark on the path to a dark destiny that will change their worlds.
Low by Mike Duke is half philosophical horror and half police drama. Off the bat I have to give this book credit for being original, I loved how it makes you think. People that normally don't read horror novels look at them and think they're for dumb people with sick minds. This opinion probably comes from the fact that there are so many bad horror movies out there. Horror literature on the other hand is totally different from horror movies and Low shows what kind of messages can come through in a good horror novel.
This book is all about morality and the consequences that come when you make the wrong choices. In Low we see some bad people being punished for their sins but we also meet characters who are shades of grey and what they go through when they cross the line. The bad guys in this book have their good side as well but they still have to suffer for their choices.
If you're more into crime stories than horror you get that from Low. Even if I didn't read Mike Duke's biography before reading this book I would have figured out that he worked as a police officer. There is a lot of detail in the story on police procedure and the kind of things police officers see on a day to day basis. For me that's where the book dragged a little, I felt some of the police scenes could have been cut out but at the same time it added a little depth to the story.
My favorite parts of Low was watching how the characters dealt with temptation, we see what Mark Adams does when faced with the opportunity to cheat on his wife. Even more interesting to me though was seeing how chad's wife Sam acted when she realizes what her husband is really like. Though she isn't a huge part of the book I loved Sam's character. At first she is presented as someone who can't handle the world she lives in but when faced with a crisis we see her as a strong person. She also has my favorite scene in the book when she gives her views on what Zombies represent in horror movies. The best part of Low for me wasn't the story or the characters, it was the messages that it was trying to get across.
Chad Bigleby is a lawyer who would be considered a shade of grey when it comes to morals. He is married and has a couple of mistresses, he has a son out of wedlock and he would do anything for him. This includes blackmailing someone so he can get a big pay day. What Chad doesn't know is he is about to be held accountable for all his sins because something evil has arrived in town and its going to put Chad and Mark on the path to a dark destiny that will change their worlds.
Low by Mike Duke is half philosophical horror and half police drama. Off the bat I have to give this book credit for being original, I loved how it makes you think. People that normally don't read horror novels look at them and think they're for dumb people with sick minds. This opinion probably comes from the fact that there are so many bad horror movies out there. Horror literature on the other hand is totally different from horror movies and Low shows what kind of messages can come through in a good horror novel.
This book is all about morality and the consequences that come when you make the wrong choices. In Low we see some bad people being punished for their sins but we also meet characters who are shades of grey and what they go through when they cross the line. The bad guys in this book have their good side as well but they still have to suffer for their choices.
If you're more into crime stories than horror you get that from Low. Even if I didn't read Mike Duke's biography before reading this book I would have figured out that he worked as a police officer. There is a lot of detail in the story on police procedure and the kind of things police officers see on a day to day basis. For me that's where the book dragged a little, I felt some of the police scenes could have been cut out but at the same time it added a little depth to the story.
My favorite parts of Low was watching how the characters dealt with temptation, we see what Mark Adams does when faced with the opportunity to cheat on his wife. Even more interesting to me though was seeing how chad's wife Sam acted when she realizes what her husband is really like. Though she isn't a huge part of the book I loved Sam's character. At first she is presented as someone who can't handle the world she lives in but when faced with a crisis we see her as a strong person. She also has my favorite scene in the book when she gives her views on what Zombies represent in horror movies. The best part of Low for me wasn't the story or the characters, it was the messages that it was trying to get across.
July 18, 2019
This is my fourth Mike Duke book. I have read the first two books in the Ashley’s Tale trilogy and also Where The Gods Sleep. I highly recommend each of those. But I’m here to talk about Low. I bought this book a while back to support Stitched Smile Publishing. I also recommend anything they publish, past and future. That being said, it sat in my Kindle library, winking at me every time I strolled through looking for something new to read. Shame on me for being a procrastinator. This book reads so quickly. I had to force myself to go to sleep. The story of two completely opposite characters and the common denominator that sends them on paths that will cross in a painful, gory and ultimately tragic crossroad is a masterpiece. As the plot unravels, universal questions are raised: how low would you go to get what you wanted? Could you be judge, jury and executioner? What is justice? What is faith?
A knight struggling to keep his armor shiny, a lawyer desperate to save a life, at any cost, demon dogs, demon(?) men, and a town that could be yours. All this and more await you in Pleasant Grove. This book seriously makes you look at your worldview, (well it did me) and perhaps ask yourself “How well do I know my friends, co-workers, spouses? I give this book a very enthusiastic five stars!
A knight struggling to keep his armor shiny, a lawyer desperate to save a life, at any cost, demon dogs, demon(?) men, and a town that could be yours. All this and more await you in Pleasant Grove. This book seriously makes you look at your worldview, (well it did me) and perhaps ask yourself “How well do I know my friends, co-workers, spouses? I give this book a very enthusiastic five stars!
August 13, 2019
Low by Mike Duke is a non stop page turner, from beginning to end! Throw a little bit of terror, suspense, horror, and humor in it. Then you got yourself one hell of a book!
Mike Duke knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next! Low is one of the best books I have read this year! I would say this book rates up there with, The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty, Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay, and The Piercing Darkness by Frank Peretti!
If you haven’t read Mike Duke, you’re missing a treat!
Mike Duke knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next! Low is one of the best books I have read this year! I would say this book rates up there with, The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty, Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay, and The Piercing Darkness by Frank Peretti!
If you haven’t read Mike Duke, you’re missing a treat!
May 11, 2018
Well, I had to take a couple days to write a review of this book, because it implies too many important concepts. The most important, in my opinion, is how this book DISTURBS you. But not in a regular way. Not in a bloody, gore way. Duke made a Black List of the most painful human feelings (guilt, regret, reproach, resentment, thirst for revenge) and turns the knife in each one of them to make you feel them, one by one. Slowly, enjoying himself.
Sin and guilt, the foundation of Hell. Can you possibly be redeemed after sin? If someone forgives you, if the Gods forgive you, will you be free? What about your own regrets? Can you forgive yourself? Duke finds a terrifying concept of Purgatory and "Hell" in between those lines. Not being able to fix things, go back, clean your soul and face it alone, only you and the Eternal Darkness, eternal torture. It is, indeed, terrifying.
Characters are all "LOW". The worst of them blooms in all its splendour. Drugs, infidelity, betrayal, self-harm, lies. No superheroes in here. No matter if men or women, the author doesn't make any difference, he just purges them in their own personal flames.
Duke worked hard, obviously, to create a web of different dimensions (real, unreal, physical, paranormal, awake, asleep...) in which characters don't even know where they are at. He perfectly pictures in your mind, exactly, what he wants. Lots of fights (where the author shows his previous experience in the field), races, blood.
Characters are constantly tested, questioned, played, tortured. They run in this world, in the story, as if nothing happened, while their soul is being ripped open.
His writing is excellent. You can't just close this book. It's massive and I read it in two days (because life gets in the way, of course), but it could have perfectly been one. The book grabs you as you read, it just gets worse and worse (in an amazing way), it speeds up in the darkness. The end is completely unexpected and brilliant. You know I don't like talking about the plot in my reviews, because it always ruins the reading. I will only say, the main character is already one of my favourites, by far, because of his depth and philosophy.
Lots of hard work behind this book make it a splendid little piece of Hell, where your prejudices and confidence will be dislocated and disrupted, to the point you will just stare at the wall, in a blank gaze, with only one thought in your mind: "I am doomed."
I can't say with words how much, how deeply, how honestly I have enjoyed this book. This slice of psychological horror will now, always be with me.
All my appreciation and recognition for the author. Your work is a proof, extreme horror is still alive.
Sin and guilt, the foundation of Hell. Can you possibly be redeemed after sin? If someone forgives you, if the Gods forgive you, will you be free? What about your own regrets? Can you forgive yourself? Duke finds a terrifying concept of Purgatory and "Hell" in between those lines. Not being able to fix things, go back, clean your soul and face it alone, only you and the Eternal Darkness, eternal torture. It is, indeed, terrifying.
Characters are all "LOW". The worst of them blooms in all its splendour. Drugs, infidelity, betrayal, self-harm, lies. No superheroes in here. No matter if men or women, the author doesn't make any difference, he just purges them in their own personal flames.
Duke worked hard, obviously, to create a web of different dimensions (real, unreal, physical, paranormal, awake, asleep...) in which characters don't even know where they are at. He perfectly pictures in your mind, exactly, what he wants. Lots of fights (where the author shows his previous experience in the field), races, blood.
Characters are constantly tested, questioned, played, tortured. They run in this world, in the story, as if nothing happened, while their soul is being ripped open.
His writing is excellent. You can't just close this book. It's massive and I read it in two days (because life gets in the way, of course), but it could have perfectly been one. The book grabs you as you read, it just gets worse and worse (in an amazing way), it speeds up in the darkness. The end is completely unexpected and brilliant. You know I don't like talking about the plot in my reviews, because it always ruins the reading. I will only say, the main character is already one of my favourites, by far, because of his depth and philosophy.
Lots of hard work behind this book make it a splendid little piece of Hell, where your prejudices and confidence will be dislocated and disrupted, to the point you will just stare at the wall, in a blank gaze, with only one thought in your mind: "I am doomed."
I can't say with words how much, how deeply, how honestly I have enjoyed this book. This slice of psychological horror will now, always be with me.
All my appreciation and recognition for the author. Your work is a proof, extreme horror is still alive.
January 14, 2019
This book blew my mind, I'm not even sure where to start. This isn't your classic tale of good vs evil, because at many points, you find yourself cheering for the evil side. This is straight up a morality war. Mr. Phailees and Phobos start us off and it took me no time at all to warm up to them. The same with Adams, our main character, tough guy cop but all around good person, struggling with his own problems, and now finding himself having to figure out what's wrong in his town and save it. And then there's Chad. I hated that guy after the second time he shows up. As usual, Mike Duke creates well-developed characters that make the story feel alive.
Besides the actual story line, Duke's knack for imagery writing is on every page. You don't just read this book, you visualize it. Nothing is left up to the imagination as each scene is so well written it pops alive in your head. The dream sequences are so sudden, you don't even know it's a dream until it's over, every single time! I cannot recommend enough the trip down into Hell, or the quick stop at the strip joint. Those both deserve to be read twice!
Since I don't like to give the story line away, just know that with the twists and turns you never see coming throughout this book, the ending was still the biggest WHAT??! Wrapping the entire basis of the story up with a pretty, yet bloody, bow. And I want a sequel.
I'd like to add, that I've read other reviews complaining about the way women are portrayed in this book. I am a woman, and I had no issue at all with it, I didn't even realize anyone did until I read some reviews. Everyone is portrayed exactly as they should be. Yes, some of the women are highly sexual, but this story is about morality. Adams must maintain his morality for the story to work. I don't know about everyone else, but I don't want an author to tell me that our main character has "high morals" and just work with it. I want to see it. I want to know it. We're shown over and over how much he denies himself, how much he overcomes, to stay as he is and not betray his own ideals. And to the opposite effect, the women in chad's life help to paint just exactly what a jerk he is and help you hate him more. I wouldn't say this for just any story, because I care very much how women are portrayed in our mainstream. However, in Low, all of the women were a huge part of the story, because their actions help to define the outcome.
Besides the actual story line, Duke's knack for imagery writing is on every page. You don't just read this book, you visualize it. Nothing is left up to the imagination as each scene is so well written it pops alive in your head. The dream sequences are so sudden, you don't even know it's a dream until it's over, every single time! I cannot recommend enough the trip down into Hell, or the quick stop at the strip joint. Those both deserve to be read twice!
Since I don't like to give the story line away, just know that with the twists and turns you never see coming throughout this book, the ending was still the biggest WHAT??! Wrapping the entire basis of the story up with a pretty, yet bloody, bow. And I want a sequel.
I'd like to add, that I've read other reviews complaining about the way women are portrayed in this book. I am a woman, and I had no issue at all with it, I didn't even realize anyone did until I read some reviews. Everyone is portrayed exactly as they should be. Yes, some of the women are highly sexual, but this story is about morality. Adams must maintain his morality for the story to work. I don't know about everyone else, but I don't want an author to tell me that our main character has "high morals" and just work with it. I want to see it. I want to know it. We're shown over and over how much he denies himself, how much he overcomes, to stay as he is and not betray his own ideals. And to the opposite effect, the women in chad's life help to paint just exactly what a jerk he is and help you hate him more. I wouldn't say this for just any story, because I care very much how women are portrayed in our mainstream. However, in Low, all of the women were a huge part of the story, because their actions help to define the outcome.
September 29, 2017
A master work of sinister philosophical horror.
Low isn’t just a book, it’s an intellectual and emotional experience; it’s a horrific study of good and evil in man, in the world, in eternity. It plays upon the mind and belief system to such degree that it will challenge everything you hold to be true. Low made me question every stupid adult thing I’ve ever done until I literally feared for my soul and felt a desire to take Communion and call a priest to bless my house. I still want Communion.
The book opens with the arrival of a mysterious and sinister character who sets the stage with foreshadowing of things to come. Then begins a story that draws you in with vivid characters who evoke laughter, empathy, and disdain… and fear. The actions, reactions, and interactions of these characters are so uncannily real, I could not help but be moved by them. I have noted over many years that while many authors have wonderful stories to tell, some of them seem to lack the life experience to bring their characters to full life and others choose to leave a lot open to interpretation. When I read characters that are truly real people and not just the character role in the story, I am wonderfully surprised. I enjoy that level of depth and Mike Duke masterfully brings it.
The characters come together in a story with an ebb and flow of building tension and horror. Concepts, actions, and forces of good and evil swirl around each other, dragging you to the realization that the justification of evil deeds with good intention truly is the bricks of the cobble stone road to damnation.
This story has some horrific imaging and graphic sequences, but not to the point of being extreme horror. This one did give me a few nightmares, but it was from the story itself and not the graphic sequences. So, brace yourself and keep your prayer beads handy. You’re going to need them.
Low isn’t just a book, it’s an intellectual and emotional experience; it’s a horrific study of good and evil in man, in the world, in eternity. It plays upon the mind and belief system to such degree that it will challenge everything you hold to be true. Low made me question every stupid adult thing I’ve ever done until I literally feared for my soul and felt a desire to take Communion and call a priest to bless my house. I still want Communion.
The book opens with the arrival of a mysterious and sinister character who sets the stage with foreshadowing of things to come. Then begins a story that draws you in with vivid characters who evoke laughter, empathy, and disdain… and fear. The actions, reactions, and interactions of these characters are so uncannily real, I could not help but be moved by them. I have noted over many years that while many authors have wonderful stories to tell, some of them seem to lack the life experience to bring their characters to full life and others choose to leave a lot open to interpretation. When I read characters that are truly real people and not just the character role in the story, I am wonderfully surprised. I enjoy that level of depth and Mike Duke masterfully brings it.
The characters come together in a story with an ebb and flow of building tension and horror. Concepts, actions, and forces of good and evil swirl around each other, dragging you to the realization that the justification of evil deeds with good intention truly is the bricks of the cobble stone road to damnation.
This story has some horrific imaging and graphic sequences, but not to the point of being extreme horror. This one did give me a few nightmares, but it was from the story itself and not the graphic sequences. So, brace yourself and keep your prayer beads handy. You’re going to need them.
August 30, 2018
Sometimes you pick up a book and start reading, and that book just clicks with you. That is exactly what happened when I started reading LOW by Mike Duke. The story just drags you in and never lets go until the last page.
The author has created a very complex and intriguing story, populating it with a cast of some of the most believable characters put on paper. The two main characters, Mark Adams and Chad Bigleby are two sides of a coin. Mark is an honorable man who wants to uphold the law, live a happy life with his wife and be content. Chad is in it just for the money and self indulgence. He cheats, steals and does whatever he needs to get ahead in life. Little do they know that a new stranger in town will bring both their lives crashing down and lead them both into a confrontation for their very souls.
LOW is a deep novel. This is not just a horror novel with a big baddie, although Mister Phailees is a terrifying figure. This is a story that pulls us through many philosophical situations. What makes a one man evil and what makes one man good? Can a sin be forgiven in man's and God's eye? And does God still watch over someone if they themselves have lost faith?
There are so may questions asked through the course of the story and the author handles each one in stride, not afraid to run his characters through the ringer and see what comes out the other side. He gives us a very memorable villain in Mister Phailees, a man (or is he) on a mission. But is he really the villain of the story? At times you will root for him. He is doing what he has done for a long time, and in the end he still has his limits and answers to a higher power. No, the real monster in this story is man. Only man can sin and only man can strive for redemption.
The world in this story is in constant flux. One moment it is the real world, next it is a dream state, and another we are in a vision of hell that would put Dante on edge.
I do have to give extra praise to Mike Duke for his portrayal of his main character, who is a police officer. If you read Mike's bio you will see that he was a police officer for 12 years. This knowledge comes into play throughout the book. This is one of the most spot on use of police procedure and the showing of how police interact with each other, dispatch and the public. It makes the story, and the characters that much more believable. It is so nice to see someone get their police characters right, and not try to base them off of what they have seen on TV.
This is a thought provoking, action-packed, scary story that you will be thinking about long after you finish it.
The author has created a very complex and intriguing story, populating it with a cast of some of the most believable characters put on paper. The two main characters, Mark Adams and Chad Bigleby are two sides of a coin. Mark is an honorable man who wants to uphold the law, live a happy life with his wife and be content. Chad is in it just for the money and self indulgence. He cheats, steals and does whatever he needs to get ahead in life. Little do they know that a new stranger in town will bring both their lives crashing down and lead them both into a confrontation for their very souls.
LOW is a deep novel. This is not just a horror novel with a big baddie, although Mister Phailees is a terrifying figure. This is a story that pulls us through many philosophical situations. What makes a one man evil and what makes one man good? Can a sin be forgiven in man's and God's eye? And does God still watch over someone if they themselves have lost faith?
There are so may questions asked through the course of the story and the author handles each one in stride, not afraid to run his characters through the ringer and see what comes out the other side. He gives us a very memorable villain in Mister Phailees, a man (or is he) on a mission. But is he really the villain of the story? At times you will root for him. He is doing what he has done for a long time, and in the end he still has his limits and answers to a higher power. No, the real monster in this story is man. Only man can sin and only man can strive for redemption.
The world in this story is in constant flux. One moment it is the real world, next it is a dream state, and another we are in a vision of hell that would put Dante on edge.
I do have to give extra praise to Mike Duke for his portrayal of his main character, who is a police officer. If you read Mike's bio you will see that he was a police officer for 12 years. This knowledge comes into play throughout the book. This is one of the most spot on use of police procedure and the showing of how police interact with each other, dispatch and the public. It makes the story, and the characters that much more believable. It is so nice to see someone get their police characters right, and not try to base them off of what they have seen on TV.
This is a thought provoking, action-packed, scary story that you will be thinking about long after you finish it.
June 29, 2020
3.5 stars
Mike Duke presents an ambitious horror story that explores Christian themes of sin, judgement, and forgiveness.
There were several things that worked for me in this book and a few that didn't.
What I liked -
- The antagonist, Mr. Phailees, and his dog Phobos are iconic and unforgettable. Phailees has an air of class about him and he is committed to his function (his function being punishment of sinners). Like the greatest villains, he stole every scene he was in.
- I mostly a cosmic horror guy and I don't read a lot of horror that explores Christian themes. When I do I often find the logic inconsistent. Duke creates a consistent narrative for his universe that never feels forced or contradictory. It all makes sense within the context of the book.
- Duke presents a believable representation of law enforcement and explores some of the mental, physical, and moral challenges that people with that kind of power and responsibility face on a daily basis.
- The other bad guy, who is more a secondary protagonist than an antagonist, compliments the character of Officer Adams very well. They are opposites in many important ways, which lends something to the story without hitting you over the head with their polarity.
- The proves moves quickly. The style is relaxed and straightforward, but still maintains a voice of its own.
- The ending of the story, which I won't spoil, perfectly complimented the world-building and themes of the book.
What didn't work for me-
- A big theme of the book is moral absolutism, which I think is a fine topic to explore, but certain conclusions the book makes left a bad taste in my mouth. When a cheating wife is condemned to the same fate as a murdering, blackmailing, dirty lawyer it rubbed me the wrong way. I understand that in Christian tradition both would be facing eternal damnation for their sins, but that aspect didn't work for me on an emotional level.
- The female characters didn't really have any agency. I'm not one of these guys who hates all damsels in distress stories, but I wanted the female lead to have had a better opportunity to work toward her own salvation, rather than having it rest in the hands of her husband. Particularly when that salvation was more spiritual than physical.
Final thoughts -
LOW is an entertaining, thought provoking book from a talented author with a strong voice. A must read for anyone interested in horror stories that explore questions of morality or Christian themes... or if you just like a great villain.
Mike Duke presents an ambitious horror story that explores Christian themes of sin, judgement, and forgiveness.
There were several things that worked for me in this book and a few that didn't.
What I liked -
- The antagonist, Mr. Phailees, and his dog Phobos are iconic and unforgettable. Phailees has an air of class about him and he is committed to his function (his function being punishment of sinners). Like the greatest villains, he stole every scene he was in.
- I mostly a cosmic horror guy and I don't read a lot of horror that explores Christian themes. When I do I often find the logic inconsistent. Duke creates a consistent narrative for his universe that never feels forced or contradictory. It all makes sense within the context of the book.
- Duke presents a believable representation of law enforcement and explores some of the mental, physical, and moral challenges that people with that kind of power and responsibility face on a daily basis.
- The other bad guy, who is more a secondary protagonist than an antagonist, compliments the character of Officer Adams very well. They are opposites in many important ways, which lends something to the story without hitting you over the head with their polarity.
- The proves moves quickly. The style is relaxed and straightforward, but still maintains a voice of its own.
- The ending of the story, which I won't spoil, perfectly complimented the world-building and themes of the book.
What didn't work for me-
- A big theme of the book is moral absolutism, which I think is a fine topic to explore, but certain conclusions the book makes left a bad taste in my mouth. When a cheating wife is condemned to the same fate as a murdering, blackmailing, dirty lawyer it rubbed me the wrong way. I understand that in Christian tradition both would be facing eternal damnation for their sins, but that aspect didn't work for me on an emotional level.
- The female characters didn't really have any agency. I'm not one of these guys who hates all damsels in distress stories, but I wanted the female lead to have had a better opportunity to work toward her own salvation, rather than having it rest in the hands of her husband. Particularly when that salvation was more spiritual than physical.
Final thoughts -
LOW is an entertaining, thought provoking book from a talented author with a strong voice. A must read for anyone interested in horror stories that explore questions of morality or Christian themes... or if you just like a great villain.
July 15, 2018
*3.5 Stars. Maybe someday Goodreads will allow for half-stars. Sigh.
Thanks so much to the author for providing me a copy of Low in exchange for an honest review.
First, just as a ‘disclaimer’ of sorts, I’m typically not a fan of the philosophical type horror. I do however, appreciate the writing itself and the talent that goes into weaving the story-lines. I’m not against stories of this nature—perhaps I’ve just heard them too many times.
That being said, I did really like this story! Duke’s antagonists, Mr. Phailees and Phobos, were my favorite characters in this book. They were dynamic and well-written, and each scene they appeared in was interesting and kept the story moving along well. This book revives the age-old debate between good and evil—justice versus mercy. There are many lowly characters in this story as the title suggests, and each have their share of sins.
I take stance with another review that the women in the story appear only as sex objects. This is perhaps less noticeable from a male gaze, but as a female, it was sometimes just ‘cringey.’ I have no problem with female sexuality taking front stage—but in most cases, there was just a sense of desperation with it that wasn’t pleasant. Now, given the nature of this story, I can very much see this being a deliberate choice in characterization. The novel is mainly about the experiences of one protagonist, Adams, and how he sees the world. I have no doubt that Mike can write a strong female character based off his writing in Low, but we just don’t really see it in this story.
Another huge plus for me regarding the novel was the ‘police beat’ scenes. They’re among the best I’ve read in terms of the reality of the daily grind. I’m 100% the type of person who watches cop shows, law enforcement diaries, etc. I have family members who retired from law enforcement, and their stories are insane. We get glimpse of that world in Low, and as I suspected, Mike has also worked in law enforcement. It shows. The way Adams conducted business was very telling of his personality, which in turn strengthened his character.
All in all, if you enjoy novels that consider morality versus the afterlife, you will likely enjoy this novel. Mike managed to blend the supernatural seamlessly with the everyday, and once I started reading I couldn’t stop.
Thanks so much to the author for providing me a copy of Low in exchange for an honest review.
First, just as a ‘disclaimer’ of sorts, I’m typically not a fan of the philosophical type horror. I do however, appreciate the writing itself and the talent that goes into weaving the story-lines. I’m not against stories of this nature—perhaps I’ve just heard them too many times.
That being said, I did really like this story! Duke’s antagonists, Mr. Phailees and Phobos, were my favorite characters in this book. They were dynamic and well-written, and each scene they appeared in was interesting and kept the story moving along well. This book revives the age-old debate between good and evil—justice versus mercy. There are many lowly characters in this story as the title suggests, and each have their share of sins.
I take stance with another review that the women in the story appear only as sex objects. This is perhaps less noticeable from a male gaze, but as a female, it was sometimes just ‘cringey.’ I have no problem with female sexuality taking front stage—but in most cases, there was just a sense of desperation with it that wasn’t pleasant. Now, given the nature of this story, I can very much see this being a deliberate choice in characterization. The novel is mainly about the experiences of one protagonist, Adams, and how he sees the world. I have no doubt that Mike can write a strong female character based off his writing in Low, but we just don’t really see it in this story.
Another huge plus for me regarding the novel was the ‘police beat’ scenes. They’re among the best I’ve read in terms of the reality of the daily grind. I’m 100% the type of person who watches cop shows, law enforcement diaries, etc. I have family members who retired from law enforcement, and their stories are insane. We get glimpse of that world in Low, and as I suspected, Mike has also worked in law enforcement. It shows. The way Adams conducted business was very telling of his personality, which in turn strengthened his character.
All in all, if you enjoy novels that consider morality versus the afterlife, you will likely enjoy this novel. Mike managed to blend the supernatural seamlessly with the everyday, and once I started reading I couldn’t stop.
May 20, 2020
🦇 from my review over at www.instagram.com/lastbookontheleft
I have been meaning to read this one for quite awhile and finally got around to reading it. I finished last night and boy am I happy I read it. It was such a good story and not as gory as Hate Inexorable.
The story follows Chad Bigleby, a lawyer that is cheating on his wife, and Mark Adams, a police officer with a rocky marriage. Their lives are thrown into chaos when an evil presence shows up determined to make sinners pay for the wrongs they have committed.
This one makes you think about all the things you do and if any of it would mean a stay in Hell for you. I like to think I would not go to Hell because I'm basically a nice person, but I also don't believe in Heaven or Hell so if I'm wrong I'm sure I'll have my own personal circle of Hell all set out for me. According to Dante, and some random internet quiz, I'll be in the sixth circle with the heretics, which I guess makes sense because I definitely don't agree with a lot of religious ideas. Oh well, what can you do?! 🤷♀️
Anyway, this was a great book! I really liked the story. You can definitely tell the author was a former police officer. The story was very well written and kept me interested all the way to the end. Can't wait to read his other books.
I have been meaning to read this one for quite awhile and finally got around to reading it. I finished last night and boy am I happy I read it. It was such a good story and not as gory as Hate Inexorable.
The story follows Chad Bigleby, a lawyer that is cheating on his wife, and Mark Adams, a police officer with a rocky marriage. Their lives are thrown into chaos when an evil presence shows up determined to make sinners pay for the wrongs they have committed.
This one makes you think about all the things you do and if any of it would mean a stay in Hell for you. I like to think I would not go to Hell because I'm basically a nice person, but I also don't believe in Heaven or Hell so if I'm wrong I'm sure I'll have my own personal circle of Hell all set out for me. According to Dante, and some random internet quiz, I'll be in the sixth circle with the heretics, which I guess makes sense because I definitely don't agree with a lot of religious ideas. Oh well, what can you do?! 🤷♀️
Anyway, this was a great book! I really liked the story. You can definitely tell the author was a former police officer. The story was very well written and kept me interested all the way to the end. Can't wait to read his other books.
February 21, 2019
This is definitely Mike Duke's Magnum Opus. Low is a character driven piece that blends well developed characters, emotion, and horror into a perfect recipe. Each and every character causes an emotional reaction from pity to joy to pure hate. You find yourself falling into the lives of these characters and feel as if you know them as they traverse through the nightmare Duke has created here.
The story flows really well. As each event leads to the next you won't be able to help but bite your nails waiting for the next revelation; the next horrific encounter. Bouncing between our world and the parallel Hell attached to it creates a chilling feeling.
The effects of our own inner darkness and free will will lead you on a roller coaster ride that feels like that first plummet from the start to the finish.
The story flows really well. As each event leads to the next you won't be able to help but bite your nails waiting for the next revelation; the next horrific encounter. Bouncing between our world and the parallel Hell attached to it creates a chilling feeling.
The effects of our own inner darkness and free will will lead you on a roller coaster ride that feels like that first plummet from the start to the finish.
March 30, 2018
Amazing!
This is the first book I've read from Mike Duke other than a story "The Fall of St. Louis" in "Unleashed: Monsters vs Zombies". I found the story absolutely amazing. Definitely worth a 5 star rating. Those who have committed sins, get the wrath from Mr. Phailees and Phobos. Let's just say, they will drive you crazy. There were great twists and humor. It is definitely a unique story of good vs evil. The characters were well written that you can understand the type of person they are and how they are feeling at a particular moment. It was so exhilarating and suspenseful that I couldn't stop reading it. I look forward to reading more books from Mike Duke as to he is an excellent writer and brings your imagination on a rollercoaster ride.
This is the first book I've read from Mike Duke other than a story "The Fall of St. Louis" in "Unleashed: Monsters vs Zombies". I found the story absolutely amazing. Definitely worth a 5 star rating. Those who have committed sins, get the wrath from Mr. Phailees and Phobos. Let's just say, they will drive you crazy. There were great twists and humor. It is definitely a unique story of good vs evil. The characters were well written that you can understand the type of person they are and how they are feeling at a particular moment. It was so exhilarating and suspenseful that I couldn't stop reading it. I look forward to reading more books from Mike Duke as to he is an excellent writer and brings your imagination on a rollercoaster ride.
December 5, 2019
What would you do if an ancient being was unleashed upon the Earth that hunted down those that were the most corrupt with a vicious hell hound at his side? He can turn all of your most deep secrets, trespasses, and wrong doings against you. What happens when the foot finally falls and justice is called upon those who deserve it most? Chad Bigleby, a corrupt lawyer, and Officer Mark Adams are the two characters we follow through this exact scenario. Mike Duke pulls no punches on this absolutely gripping tale that had me clawing at the pages trying to get to the next one. Don't have a bookmark? Good. You won't need it. You'll not put this down until it's finished.
January 2, 2020
Mike Duke has once again written a mind blowing story! It is very obvious that Mike knows his stuff and weaves it intricately into his stories and on top of that can create a place we have seen many times in other stories but makes it totally unique. Hell has always been a real place to me, I am a firm believer in this realm and this book has firmly cemented to me the need to me to be a good and decent person because the hell that is portrayed in this book far surpassed any hell in my imagination, it scared the crap out of me! I'll be thinking about this one for a long while! Well done Mike Duke, you are talented beyond words!
July 14, 2019
"She was free from a life of torment at last, from her father's grotesque touch, but at the cost of death. Her soul escaped but her life had been taken from her in so many other ways before she died."
LOW had me hooked from the first page. Being the third of Mike Duke's books I've had the pleasure of reading, I was prepared for an intense journey, yet still found myself shocked at the brutal story as it unfolded.
I highly recommend Mike Duke to any and all horror lovers, you will not be disappointed.
LOW had me hooked from the first page. Being the third of Mike Duke's books I've had the pleasure of reading, I was prepared for an intense journey, yet still found myself shocked at the brutal story as it unfolded.
I highly recommend Mike Duke to any and all horror lovers, you will not be disappointed.
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