Decay

by Joe Scipione

At an early age, Martin Quigley learned he had the ability to kill anything he touched. His mother died after kissing him goodnight. His father died twenty-four hours later after consoling a young son worried about his sick mother. An orphan, Martin went to live with family close by. When an older cousin found out his ability, Martin was given the nickname Decay.

Now an adult, Martin finds himself conscripted to join the Union army in the war between the states. He leaves home and fights the war alongside fellow soldiers from Massachusetts. His commanding officer learns of his special ability and now wants to use Martin as a weapon of war. But Martin is the most powerful weapon on either side in the gruesome war and he has a deadly decision to make.

80 pages, Paperback

Published November 7, 2022

Reviews

[Nathan Ludwig · Rating 4 out of 5]

First read from Joe. Definitely not the last.

Great idea for a story. Nice work on setting, atmosphere, and character.

GREAT ending. Looking forward to Book 2. Everything's set up nicely for a provocative continuation.

[John Durgin · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Decay, Joe Scipione raises some horrifying questions with a remarkable Civil War era horror story. What would one do if they had the ability to take the lives of others with a simple touch? What if after years of hiding that power in the dark secrets of your mind, you were forced to use it… and liked it?

[Todd Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joe has a fantastic way of painting a vivid picture when he writes. I could clearly visualize each setting and each character. Book one of DECAY draws the reader in and holds them tight, when the last word is read, the reader will want to dive into book 2 right away. Decay is set on a mission, after completing the mission, DECAY if faced with a new war. This time the war will be within himself.

[DA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique and interesting!

What a unique and interesting story. I really loved seeing the main character's development from a meek, just does what he's told soldier afraid of his abilities to someone sure of himself and embracing his power and knowing his value to the army. Well written with a storyline that kept me turning the pages.

[D.E. McCluskey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book, great theme.

I loved this book. It was such a ride, and you were rooting for Martin all the way.

I loved the ending and am looking forward to more from this universe.

[Diana | Indie Book Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a young boy Martin learned the hard way about a special ability he had. It’s how he lost his parents and ended up staying with family members. Eventually his cousin found out about his ability and started calling him Decay. Even into adulthood that nickname stuck. Martin always tried to hide his ability, but not anymore.

Decay starts out strong and holds all the way to the end. Watching Martin go from hiding his ability to basically flexing it and feeling God-like was interesting. Now he truly knows what he is capable of and will no longer be afraid.

I loved the idea of this book. I wondered if Martin would eventually embrace who he was. When he fulfilled his mission from Riggs, you could tell how powerful he felt. Great character! I can’t wait to read more from this series.