"Radio Run" Book Review

When I read the synopsis for Eddie Generous’ Radio Run, I knew I had to read it. I mean, just look at this:

Eight criminals face a terrifying fight for survival as they try to make it to Alaska and freedom.

Making it from A to be B is long and the elements are difficult as it is, but significantly multiplied by the cryptids that stand in their way. Giant bugs, mega whales, and huge Sasquatch are all hungry for their flesh.

And this was before I found out it was set in a post-apocalyptic landscape. Once I learned that, all bets were off. I don’t know if I ever mentioned in one of my reviews where applicable (I probably have), but if I haven’t, one of my favorite sub-genres of horror – or even just fiction in general – is apocalyptic. Something about the idea of the majority of the population being wiped out due to war, famine, sickness, or whatever, is just appealing. Maybe it’s because I have no faith in the human race and a cleansing would do it well. Or maybe it’s just that I like the idea of wandering the world with no obligations except to myself. Or maybe it’s just a combination of the two or something else I haven’t thought of. Regardless, a world with far fewer people is one I wouldn’t mind living in. Generous’ Radio Run? I’m ready to move to that universe right now.

The book follows the aforementioned eight criminals as they make their way to Alaska, fighting giant monsters as well as each other along the way. Seems like there was a nuclear war (I’m assuming) that not only wiped out a good chunk of humanity, created entirely new and terrifying creepies and crawlies, but also changed how people were punished. There is no longer a death penalty since everyone’s life, even those seen as murderers to the powers that be, is valued. I guess an apocalypse will do that to people. So instead of throwing those that would normally be killed by the state into prison forever, they are given a vehicle and told that if they can make it to the Alaska free zone, they’ll no longer have to worry about their convictions. Oh, and all this is televised on the show, Radio Run.

The problem of course is ratings are everything, so it’s questionable if those “criminals” that are forced to be on the show should be on the show. I guess we wouldn’t have drama and tension if things were played on a level field, though, would we?

Everything I like in a quick and exciting read is found in Radio Run. Monsters? Check. Action? Check. Believable characters? Check. This sucker rolls. And let’s take a minute to discuss those characters. Not only are they believable, Generous doesn’t do that trick where everyone has a “specialty” that conveniently helps the group. Of the eight, only two really have a skill that contributes to their plight, and those talents are organically introduced. In addition, that character you really like? Better hope they make it because no one is safe here.

Radio Run also moves. There is no fat on this book. It progresses so quickly, I genuinely thought it was a novella and was literally surprised when I checked the page count when I finished. From go you’re moving as fast as the characters until the end of the book, and having tons of fun. Speaking of tons, the monsters they face are a blast. From giant ape-like creatures to huge killer birds to sea creatures Lovecraft would be proud of, there is never a dull moment. Beasts are coming from land, air and sea, and these suckers are relentless. There’s barely any breathing room because when the characters aren’t being attacked by cryptids, they’re watching for attacks from within. You just can’t trust anyone or anything in Radio Run.

This was the first book I’ve read by Generous, although I’m sure it won’t be the last. He delivers a winner that has the perfect mix of action, terror, and thrills in Radio Run and I’m already looking forward to seeing what else he has to offer. And that ending? Anyone that ruins the ending for you should be the next contestant on Radio Run.