Deader Still

Simon Canderous #2

by Anton Strout

Back in his criminal past, Simon Canderous never imagined himself in a nine-to-five job—much less a nine-to-five a.m. one. But that’s what you get when you work on the side of good, for Manhattan’s woefully underfunded Department of Extraordinary Affairs.

It’s been 737 days since the Department’s last vampire incursion, but that streak appears to have ended when a boat full of dead lawyers is found in the Hudson River. Using the power of psychometry—the ability to divine the history of an object by touching it—Simon discovers that the booze cruise was crashed by something that sucked all the blood out of the litigators. Plus Simon’s girlfriend is studying technomancy a little clo closely with her boss; his mentor, Connor, seems to be hiding something from him; and a dangerous old flame has blown into town and threatens to make his life a living hell unless he helps her out with one last art heist. Simon’s workday may never end—until his life does…

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Fiction, Horror, Zombies, Magic

303 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 24, 2009

About the author

When not plotting against his mortal enemy Patrick Rothfuss, Anton Strout is the author of the Simon Canderous urban fantasy series for Ace Books including Dead To Me, Deader Still, Dead Matter and Dead Waters.
His new series with Ace Books is entitled The Spellmason Chronicles. Alchemystic is first in the series, followed by Stonecast and the upcoming Incarnate .

He is also the host and curator of content for The Once & Future Podcast, a weekly show that focuses on discussions with other working writers.

His other writing has appeared in a variety of anthologies—some of which include Simon Canderous tie-in stories—including: Boondocks Fantasy, The Dimension Next Door, A Girl’s Guide to Guns & Monsters, Pandora’s Closet, Spells of the City, and Zombie Raccoons & Killer Bunnies, Spells of the City, Boondocks Fantasy, After Hours: Tales from the Ur-Bar, and the upcoming Human For A Day .

He currently lives outside New York City in the haunted corn maze that is New Jersey (where nothing paranormal ever really happens, he assures you). In his scant spare time, he is an always writer, sometimes actor, sometimes musician, occasional RPGer, and the world’s most casual and controller-smashing video gamer. He also works in the exciting world of publishing, and yes, it is as glamorous as it sounds.

He can be found lurking the darkened hallways of www.antonstrout.com.

Reviews

[Anton Strout · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I had a hell of a lot of fun writing this one, so in my very skewed opinion, it's a five starrer. I may be a bit biased tho...

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only months after the events of the first book in the series, Simon's once again in the middle of a giant supernatural crisis, as well as relationship woes. Not only is Simon dealing with those aspects of his life, but one of the previous criminals he worked with in his life previous to the series has resurfaced to force him into helping her.

I was happy to see that Jane becomes a much bigger force in this novel than she was in the first. She's much less of a damsel in distress kind of character, and is more strong-minded in general. This contrasts a bit with Simon being dopier due to his raging jealousy (which, really, does get a bit annoying after awhile since we're stuck in first person perspective with him. It isn't Twilight-bad, but it definitely gets old) over her casual working relationship with her boss.

This is definitely one of those harder-to-put-down books. Strout is really good at pacing to keep the attention of readers, and tossing enough mystery and answers to keep you guessing, but not frustrated by the lack of resolution.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second Simon Canderous book, Deader Still, picks up fairly soon after the first installment left off--and this time around, on top of dealing with the challenges of what may be his first long-term steady relationship and suddenly outranking his own mentor, Simon's got to deal with what may well be a vampire outbreak, a psychotic ex coming back to ask him to commit one last crime, and a hapless archivist who is a lot more effective out in the field than he thinks he is (and who under pain of death cannot be told exactly what he has going on!).

So yeah, there's a lot of lighthearted fun here. The story didn't quite click as well with me as with Book 1, mostly because the relationship drama between Simon and Jane wasn't my cup of tea. But to balance that out, I really like the whole plot arc with Godfrey the archivist, and I'm looking forward to seeing what might happen with him later. Plus, there's interesting developments in the partner relationship between Simon and Connor, and of course, a lead-in to the next adventure at the very end.

For this one, three stars.

[Alan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book almost as much as the 1st. I still gave it a 4 star because I love the characters and the way they have progressed. I must say my favorite character is Jane, I wish I had a girlfriend like her! The reason I thought it wasn't as good as the first is because of who the protagonist was. Oh one more thing Mr. Strout must be a Buffy fan because there was a ton of Buffy (the tv show, not the movie mind you) references. Which was great cause I am a big Buffy fan (yes I own all 7 seasons on DVD).

The protagonist was the same as the 1st book. Which makes me wonder if the author couldn't think of anything new. That is the reason I didn't like it as well as the 1st.

[Katie(babs) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simon Canderous is back in Deader Still, the second book from Anton Strout about a guy with some very interesting powers working for the secret Department of Extraordinary Affairs (D.E.A.) in New York City. I really enjoyed the first book, Dead To Me and now with Deader Still I can certainly say that Anton has quite the future in the Urban Fantasy genre. I chatted with Anton on Sunday at Comic Con and told him I was quite surprised that I enjoyed Dead To Me so much because I am quite biased when it comes to reading male authors and about male characters when I am so used to reading the opposite. I can say that Anton is yet another author who has opened my eyes and I am already waiting for the third book in this series, which is still in the process of being written.

For those who don’t know who Simon is or the world he inhabits, Deader Still takes place in present day New York City. The citizens of Manhattan have no clue that the island is filled with a great deal of paranormal and magical activity. Simon is an investigator for the D.E.A. and investigates these crimes with his partner and mentor of sorts, Connor. Simon was recruited because he is a psychometrist, someone who can touch an object and will know the owner’s memories or certain points in their lives when the object was in their possession.

Deader Still opens with Simon and Connor at Comic Con. Simon has been with the NYC Department of Extraordinary Affairs for seven months and has a chance at getting a promotion. If Simon can pass certain tests, including a very dangerous one in something called the oubliette, he will become Connor’s full-fledged partner. Connor is a bit peeved at Simon because Simon was asked to join the Fraternal Order of Goodness, an organization much like the Freemasons by his boss, Inspectre Quimbley. Connor wasn’t asked and now there is some tension between the two. Otherwise, things couldn’t be better for Simon, especially since he has a new girlfriend, Jane who understands him, faults and all, and still wants to be with him. Simon saved Jane in Dead To Me, and now the cultist works at Tome, Sweet Tome, a magical book store cataloging books. Jane works very closely with one of the directors in the D.E.A who can’t stand Simon. Simon feels the same way with Director Wesker and has been having some jealousy issues because Jane and Wesker are a bit too friendly. Simon doesn’t want to mess anything up with Jane so he keeps his suspicions to himself.

Comic Con is a great place for paranormal activity where no one would bat an eyelash at something out of the ordinary, so Simon will have his test in the Oubliette there. Trouble seems to follow Simon wherever he goes and the Oubilette almost kills him because of some malfunction. It seems someone has tampered with it. Who would want Simon dead?

When Connor and Simon are relieved of their duties at Comic Con, they are put on a case. A party cruise full of lawyers are found dead and it could be vampires responsible. This is not a good thing because it has been 737 days since the last vampire attack. Simon uses his powers, and in his visions he sees fangs and some sort of creature sucking the blood and life out of one of the victims on the cruise. It is now up to Simon and Connor to find out if vampires are on the rampage and stop them before they kill again.

Not only does Simon have Inspectre Quimbley breathing down his neck about Simon upholding the ideals of the Fraternal Order of Goodness and taking over the investigation from Connor, but Jane has become a bit too powerful with her own witch like powers. Simon’s jealousy keeps rising whenever he sees Jane and Wesker together. And Simon’s women problems are about to get even worse, when a blast from Simon’s secret past comes back into his life. Before Simon went straight, he was a thief and quite skilled at picking locks. Mina, a woman from his former crew wants his help in stealing the very famous and expensive Scream painting. Mina won’t take no for an answer and threatens Simon with blackmail. She will hurt Jane. Simon has no choice but to help Mina, even if it means loosing Jane in the process.

Mina is not the only one trying to make Simon’s life a living hell. He does have an enemy who wants to do him in. Connor is also being very secretive and zombies start appearing out of nowhere with the intent to kill Simon. It can’t get any worse, right? It does when Simon loses his psychometric powers. Now Simon is just a normal guy stuck in some over the top and out of control situations. He has to find a way to stay alive and figure out a way to keep Jane and Manhattan safe.

Simon is the type of hero who really grows on you. He is not an alpha hero and more of a beta hero if any. He is such a hero who may want to run the other way but will stay and put up a fight. Nine times out of ten Simon ends up bruised and beaten. I was surprised that the guy was still standing after the number of times he was bashed over the head. Simon is really put through the wringer in Deader Still, but everytime someone tries to bring him down, he gets back up to fight again.

Anton has written Simon in such a way where you can’t help but cheer him on. You want Simon to defeat the bad guys, get the girl and a nice pat on the back. Simon was almost killed or beaten to a pulp because of Mina. I wanted Simon to punch her in the face, but since Simon is such a good guy and has great scruples, it isn’t in him to abuse a woman, even though she deserves it because she is one of the baddies.

Simon and Jane’s relationship is still so fresh and new. I thought they were very sweet together. They are a great team. The majority of the time Jane comes to Simon’s rescue. You would think Simon would be embarrassed by a woman saving him, but Simon is thrilled he has Jane to be there as his backup. He never tells her she shouldn’t or she can’t because he is the man. He cares for her well being, but he never pushes her to the side and takes control of the situation. They are partners, much like Simon and Connor are and it will be interesting to see things progress between them. Anton better not have them break up!

There are a great deal of well written action scenes with magic, ghosts, zombies and other things that go bump in the night. I could find no complaint with the descriptions and scenery of Manhattan. Anton really captures the environment of New York City and those various recognizable spots I know all to well.

There are so many different types of Urban Fantasy books on the market to choose from and Anton has something very special and different with Simon Canderous. There may have not been many laugh out loud moments in Deader Still, more of a snicker here and there, but for the entertainment value I did get my money’s worth.

Deader Still was an enjoyable read with a hero I can cheer for in his fight against evil.

[Shedrick Pittman-Hassett · Rating 4 out of 5]

From my blog: http://serialdistractions.wordpress.c...

Deader Still is the sequel to Dead to Me and is the second entry in Anton Strout’s series of paranormal action-comedies starring the psychometric hero Simon Canderous. While I had quibbles about two of the characterizations, I found myself enjoying this tightly plotted and faster-paced sequel much more than the original.

The novel opens several months after the events of Dead to Me. Simon is still working under the tutelage of his hard-boiled partner Connor in the Department of Extraordinary Affairs (DEA) while also working under the aegis of the Fraternal Order of Goodness (the FOGies). As the old saying goes, no dog can serve two masters and this dual focus begins causing friction between him and his mentor in the DEA. Simon is in his first long-term relationship; psychometry can make relationships…difficult…to say the least. His girlfriend, Jane, is a former employee of the evil Sectarian Defense League (hey, a girl has to make a living and they did have a good benefit plan…). She works for the DEA in the division of Lesser and Greater Arcana which is headed by Simon’s workplace nemesis, Thaddeus Wesker. Jane and Wesker seem to be hitting it off rather nicely—which, of course, pushes all of Simon’s buttons, much to Wesker’s delight. On top of this, an unwelcome blast from Simon’s criminal past comes back in the form of a sociopathic art thief named Mina who is pressuring him to help her with one last heist. Now add the (possibly) first vampire incursion to Manhattan in 737 days and the fact that someone is apparently out to kill Simon by sabotaging an oubliette. As you can see, Strout has compiled quite the whirlwind ride of an adventure for our mystically hands-on hero.

And a whirlwind it is. The pacing of this novel is breakneck. All the fat has been trimmed from the story making for a very tight plot. Strout also spices his prose with lots of pop culture references (and I do love me some pop culture references). Among my favorites are the fact that Jane’s last name is “Clayton-Forrester” (a nice nod to us MST3K geeks) and his use of one of my favorite lines from The Blues Brothers (“I hate Illinois gypsies…”). As in the first novel, Strout introduces all kinds of pamphlets and courses that your typical DEA agent needs to stay on top of dealing with the paranormal (“The Truth About Gated Communities: Ghost Dancing and Ancient Indian Burial Grounds”). One of the complaints I had about the first novel was that I felt that the author hadn’t quite balanced all of the elements that comprised the tone of the book; it felt a bit disjointed. Strout has found that balance in this second novel, making for a brisk, fun, read.

As I said in my review of the first novel, “The one thing you can count on is that Simon will overreact”. This is as true in the new book as it was in the old. In and of itself, it’s fine. People, even heroes, have flaws and this just happens to be Simon’s. My problem comes from the fact that it pushes me one step away from completely empathizing with the main character. He reminds me a lot of the Ben Affleck character in the movie “Chasing Amy”. He’s a likeable guy. He’s a good guy. But you just know that he’s going to open his mouth and say something completely stupid that’s going to ruin everything. Simon-as-narrator knows this…I just wish Simon-as-character would get with the program. But, I admit, this is probably more my problem than a problem with the book.

My other criticism stems from the treatment that Jane gets from Simon. As previously stated, Jane used to work for the bad guys. Simon seems to be constantly on the look-out for evil tendencies from his girlfriend as a result. Now, this is perfectly legitimate in the context of her newfound abilities in technomancy (Simon aptly refers to one incident as being a little “sixth season Willow”). However, too often, any negative emotion she demonstrates as a character seems to be written off to her “evil tendencies”. At one point she’s about to face off with Mina, who has put Simon in an extremely perilous situation. Also, due to various plot points, Jane feels no small amount of justifiable jealousy about Mina’s connection to Simon. She calls the woman a “bitch” and Simon, shocked at her language, seems to think her evil side is about to be unleashed. Another reading, a more reasonable one, is that she’s simply reacting like any normal person would do in the situation. I found Simon’s attitude in this irksome; though it may prove to be an interesting source of conflict later in his and Jane’s relationship.

Deader Still ends on a bit of a cliffhanger involving Connor’s search for his long-lost brother. My hope is that Dead Matter, the recently released third novel in the series, will build on the improvements of this second adventure and resolve its dangling conclusion. I’m looking forward to following Simon, despite all his flaws, into his next set of largely self-inflicted predicaments.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

finally got to this one during the pandemic i got to take a look at my shelves and pull out some books that were just sitting there ok i apparently started in on this series at the second book so i am not too sure what is particular power is so i am playing catch up but i will keep reading this series if i find the following books while the tale is still fresh but this had necromancers and witches ahhh keep reading .

[Desdemona Dreadless · Rating 3 out of 5]

I sorta like the series, but GAWD Simon is SO FUCKING STUPID! So childish and so idiotic and so unable to do what needs to be done. I like flawed protagonists, but he really acts like a 15 year old and pretty much every shit situation he gets into in this book is his own fault.
I mean, he really is "Too stupid to live"
Yet... I still sorta like the series.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one gave a little bit more insight into his ability and relationships, as well as his past. The main story to solve evolved a bit slow, and was predictable at the end...but a good read. Will look into the next book soon.

[Trip · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is humor in this book!

[John Loyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

The bureau of extraordinary affairs is called in to discover what happened to a boatful of dead civilians. Connor and Simon are sent to investigate. Later a jogger is similarly murdered. Simon is waylaid in his apartment by Mina from his criminal past. She wants him for his lock-picking ability for one last job, using blackmail/extortion to get his cooperation. Simon starts getting jealous of Jane and her boss. Plot moves forward, the initial investigations turn out to be symptoms, action, danger, secrets, references to Simon's telescoping bat, climax.

Pretty quick read, some really funny moments. Has a feel of a 1950s hard boiled detective story updated to present day with paranormal thrown in. (Same as Dead to Me, if you liked that one, you'll like this one.) Some actions felt like they were there to add to the drama. At the beginning of the scene we don't know any better and by the time it's over we don't go back to wonder why. The events do lead up to the climax, Simon several times uses his wits and instinct to find the next clue. 4.3 stars. It's standalone. There are a few references to things that happened in the first book and characters that have change allegiances, so if you are going to read both, better to do them in order.

[Jacob Guy Segalov · Rating 3 out of 5]

Something terrible happened to the hero from the previous book.
For some reason he makes all the worst possible decisions - he lies to his girlfriend, to a co-worker (and even when he confesses and is forgiven, he lies again), deceives a co-worker in order to take advantage of him, suffers from power intoxication, returns to commit minor crimes and misdemeanors and by and large, makes decisions Not smart without any sense.
There are better ways to advance a plot. Hope for improvement in the next book.

[Stan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun urban fantasy that does not take it self to seriously and still packs a punch.

[Mary Good · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Reminded me of an action movie where there is a lot action but no progress. Probably why I will read another.

[Dena · Rating 4 out of 5]

audio; 3.75*

[Lyn Mckenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this even more than the first, can't wait to read more from this amazing author!!!

[Dawn · Rating 1 out of 5]

A nice try

I hoped for more from this book. While the idea is unique and intriguing, the writing is threadbare and reads like a cheap cable show.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little tongue in cheek, a little outlandish, and always entertaining. I will get more books in this series.

[Skye Blue ☆*~ﾟლ(´ڡ`ლ)~*☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars.
I'm enjoying this series. Simon's learning on the job.
Sounded a false alarm on vampires.
I jumped right into the next book, and it's blurred into one read.

[Joshua Palmatier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the first book, Dead To Me, a while ago and felt it had some "first book" issues, in that it was Anton's debut novel. It didn't feel as cleanly plotted as I would have liked, with some plot elements appearing out of nowhere toward the end, and some looseness with the events and plot in general. The main character was generally sound, with a cool power--psychometry, the ability to discern past events by touching an object--but I never felt that the power was being used as effectively as possible in that book.

I'm happy to say that in the second novel, many of these issues with the first book have improved greatly. The plot, that begins with the Department of Extraordinary Affairs discovering a boat full of dead lawyers that appear to have been drained of blood, is much cleaner and less loose. It takes twists and turns that don't come out of the blue, and it's much easier to see where and why the characters are getting their ideas and motivations. The subplot regarding an ex girlfriend of Simon's, come to ask him to revert back to his criminal behavior, ties in nicely with his problems dealing with a long-term relationship (which he's never had due to his power) and the main plot as well. So a tremendous leap forward regarding the plotting. Simon's power was used much more effectively as well.

The characters are also more grounded here and easier to follow. I still think that there are smoothing issues that need to be addressed regarding the emotions of the characters though. Some of the changes--from irritation to anger, etc--come too quick or come across as too extreme in some situations. And there were a few spots where I just wanted the characters to just TALK to each other, and thus resolve the problem with a few sentences, instead of saying nothing and remaining angry instead, to keep the tension high. BUT, that said, there was massive improvement in characterization in this book as well.

I still feel that some of the plotting needs a little work--it's rough around the edges--and obviously feel that the characters haven't completely settled yet . . . but all of that is easy to leave by the wayside while reading. Because the Simon Canderous novels aren't supposed to be deadly serious urban fantasies. They're supposed to be fun, and if you go into the books with the idea that you're going to get a wild ride, then you'll have fun. The plot doesn't have to be perfect for the reader to enjoy it. (Whatever happened with the Rough Guide to Supernatural New York City anyway? Simon searches it out, finally gets it, and then it vanishes from the book.) The plot can take bizarre twists, as this one does at the end, but that's part of the fun. (Bryant Park? Really? Although cool fact about the park.) The Simon Canderous novels aren't supposed to be horribly dark reads. They're humorous and crazy and slightly whacked.

So, if you're looking for a little light reading (meaning fun) in the urban fantasy genre, something with zombies, animated bronze crabs, and some cool and interesting ties to objects and places around New York City, then I'd recommend the Simon Canderous novels. I've already stared the third novel, Dead Matter, so expect a review of that one soon.

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

PLEASE NOTE: this is the second book in the Simon Canderous series, and contains spoilers for the first book.
When we last saw Simon Canderous, he was invited to join the Fraternal Order of Goodness, otherwise known as the FOGies, and had a new girlfriend, Jane, who was formerly with the Bad Guys and whom Kim found to be a bit of a bimbo. Well, Jane is still around, but has become competent (to the point of actually saving Simon's skin a couple times) and less obnoxious. In fact, Simon has become the obnoxious one, increasingly jealous of her relationship with Thaddeus Wesker, her boss in the Greater and Lesser Arcana Division. At the same time, a mysterious woman from Simon's less than respectable past shows up and, oh yeah, did we mention the boatload of dead lawyers? They have been drained of blood. . .
So all the ingredients I liked in Dead to Me are still here, and the portrayal of Jane is much improved. My opinion of her has changed from dislike to toleration, and I actually felt sympathy for her when Simon was being a jealous butthead. Which, unfortunately, he was quite a bit, when he wasn't being more nosy and intrusive than I can really accept. Since Simon's psychometric abilities force upon him knowledge that really isn't any of his business, Strout has the opportunity to show this has negatively affected his notion of privacy and personal barriers, and I hope he does. Then again, I don't quite feel like he has struck the right balance between Simon's personal relationships and the fast-paced paranormal action, but I have hopes for future installments in the series.
I can't end this review without mentioning my favorite new character in the series: Godfrey Candella. I actually relate more to Godfrey than to any of the female characters so far---he is an archivist, impeccably dressed, and geeky, and unaware he has any special abilities to offer. I hope Godfrey sticks around, because his brand of awkward eagerness adds a lot to the series.

[Tiffany Danner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deader Still picks up just a few months after the end of Dead To Me and we find Simon still with the Department of Extraordinary Affairs but also a new member of the Fraternal Order of Goodness. The F.O.G. is a kind of good guys super club, they have been around far longer than the government paranormal agencies and allow Simon to play a little fast and loose with the rules.

We also find Simon a relationship with Jane, the “agent of Darkness” from book 1 as she attempts to find her place on the side of good. And here comes my embarrassing confession….. I don’t like Jane. I really don’t like her. Maybe I am just jealous because I totally want a Simon to call my own, but I just can not seem to get over my dislike of her. I don’t know what it is about her character but I am hoping Anton Strout has some evil plan in mind for her in the future.

Unlike Jane, the character of Connor continues to intrigue me. I really do like him almost as much as Simon, especially because he is always there for Simon. I really enjoyed the tension between Simon and Connor as Simon finds himself in the awkward position of being in charge because of his position with the F.O.G.. Deader Still gives me that little bit of depth I was looking for in Dead to Me and I found myself completely absorbed in the story. The mystery is better and the writing is tighter.

Deader Still takes the Simon Canderous series up a notch, delivering on the promise that I saw in Dead to Me. The tiny cliffhanger of hope at the end of this one has me anxiously awaiting book 3, Dead Matter.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this series! Urban magic tales fascinate me. And to have the main character possessed of a supernatural ability while in the employ of the city government? Even better! Who knew there would be red tape to consider before hunting down a vampire?

Simon Canderous turned his back on his former days of art theft and attempted to turn his life around. Now, a member of the prestigious F.O.G.s and getting the hang of working for the DEA (Department of Extraordinary Affairs) and with his superhot cultist-turned-good girlfriend, he thinks things are getting easier. But a figure from his past shows up, threatens to reveal Simon's past unless he helps her on one last heist. Then, it seems his girlfriend is getting a little too cozy with her new boss, not to mention his partner's sudden irritation with all things Simon and it's starting to get a little dicey around here. But that's before the repeated attempts on his life plus the curse that takes away his abilities. And what's with all the zombies? It's definitely not looking like a good day.

A little predictable, but that might just be because I'm getting to know the author. His language is getting a little courser or maybe Simon was just *really mad* about all the rat goo on his jacket. Still, enjoyed it and will start looking for #3 in the series...with some version of "Dead" in it's title, I'm sure.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deader Still by Anton Strout is the second book in the Simon Canderous series. Based in New York City, the series revolves around reformed thief Simon, trying to use his power of psychometry (the ability to learn about an object's past via touch) for good by joining the Department of Extraordinary Affairs. The DEA has been set up to protect NY citizens from the supernatural, and to hide the supernatural from ordinary beings. Simon finds his power a mixed blessing, as touching objects and people often leads to debilitating and unwanted visions. He is mentored by Connor, his supervisor at the Department of Extraordinary Affairs, and his girl friend Jane, a previous cultist. In this story Simon's grown up a bit, and joined the Old Foggies. He is approached by someone from his past who forces him to aid her in one last crime. At the same time, he is battling zombies, vampires, and bad buys. Lots of laugh out loud moments and fun, but most interesting to me is the side story of Connor's brother who disappeared when they were children. What happened to him, and who would now be sending notes to Connor about it?

[Ian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm honestly not sure where to 'mark' this. I read the first in the series and just didn't think it was well written, in spite of all the good ideas. Nevertheless the good ideas brought me back, however, for me, this book still falls into the same area.
Lots of amusing 'pop' culture references, including Buffy (got to like that), really interesting ideas and decent enough plot, it's just the the writing somehow gets in the way. I struggle to lose myself in Strout's writing - when something is really good the reading goes direct to the film director in your head and your barely aware you're reading. That is never the case here, but at the same time it ought to be!
I've seen enough positive reviews to suggest these books are worth a try if this sort of urban fantasy is your 'thing' and I read the second one in spite of my misgivings with the first so that has to say something, at the same time I can't recommend it unreservedly.

[Hallie · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the most part I enjoyed this a lot - somehow I (again!) managed to pick up the second in a series while meaning to get the first. It didn't matter much anyway, and Simon with his various insecurities and clumsinesses was very engaging. Also liked the whole set-up of the Department of Extraordinary Affairs, which was cool. (Quick hurrah for the treatment of Godfrey, which I was very afraid would go another way.)

Knocked off a point for the unfortunate 'Illinois gypsies' as stereotypically untrustworthy types. Not a stereotype that needs to be rehashed at this point, I think. Similarly, Mina - a generally well-developed character - occasionally got short-hand descriptions as bipolar in a way that wasn't good.

I would still read more in the series, and hope for no repetition of the point-deducting matters.

[Jing · Rating 4 out of 5]

A man has been working for a government funded institution, which involves magical issues. After living a new leaf from his dark past, Simon again revisits some of his old nightmares. In addition to that, he faces a mystery which takes a beating at his life both socially and and reputation in the department.

As a continuing sequel, i do not have much to say since i have never read the first one. In my first impression, it seemed good. There was this guy who is struggling with his life after endless hours in slaving himself in a department. To me, the book would be best for adults who have already been stressed with their life and have a family. Both have lots of demands in their life.

[pauliree · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book even more than the first one. It had the same wry humour with the main character Simon Canderous but he had a much more interesting series of hurdles to combat this time and he grew a little, became more of an adult. Most of this was due to the fact that he is in his first long term (and by long term I am talking longer than 3 months) girlfriend and the issues that arise from unreasoning jealousy as well as the fact that there could be a vampire on the loose in Manhattan, killing lawyers (although that is not necessarily a bad thing) and a lone jogger.

I am finding this series extremely readable and am really enjoying the journey Simon is on. This series is a little silly but sometimes it is good to read something that doesn't take itself too seriously.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anton Strout's sophomore outing made the grade with this reader. Simon is back and the thing haunting him this time isn't a ghost but his past. One of his old "friends" is back in town and needs Simon and his knack for picking locks. Mina wants The Scream and she will harm any who stand in her way, including Simon's girl - Jane. Not only does he have to deal with all that stress, Connor - his mentor at the Department of Extraordinary Affairs - is acting strange. And he is jealous of the time Jane is spending with Director Wesker. Simon's life is never dull.

Strout is going strong with this series and the only question I have is this - When is the next book coming?

[Cameron · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though still crafting oddball events and giving his main character plenty of recriminatory moments, Strout steps Simon Canderous up a notch, moving his soggy-behind-the-ears rookie to a moderately-moist-behind-the-ears rookie. There is still lots of red tape and bureaucratic finagling and mangling, weird ghosts and possessed statues, vendettas and opportunities for batting practice, but the most challenging aspect for Simon: dealing with his former cult member girlfriend in an actual relationship. The slap-happy romp continues in this second caper, just mind that when you rip off the red tape you don't take skin with you.