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Game

Book 2 in the series:I Hunt Killers

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you love tense, twisty thrillers with a dark psychological edge, "Game" is right up your alley! Following Jasper Dent, the son of an infamous serial killer, this sequel pushes the stakes even higher as Jazz tries to use the skills taught by his chilling father for good. Barry Lyga masterfully delves into the mind of someone torn between inherited darkness and desperate heroism. Readers who enjoyed "I Hunt Killers," fans of fast-paced YA suspense, or anyone craving a serial killer story with complex characters and a dash of gallows humor will fly through this one.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers might be put off by the book's graphic and disturbing content - there's plenty of gore and psychological intensity, so it's not for the faint of heart. Others found the plot’s real-world believability to be a stretch - after all, letting a 17-year-old consult for the NYPD is a big ask. The split perspectives and some character choices (hello, questionable decision-making!) also frustrated a few. And if you hate cliffhangers, beware – this book leaves you hanging hard.

A super intense, creepy, and addictive YA thriller packed with twists and cliffhangers. Perfect for fans of dark mysteries - just be ready to grab book three immediately!

About:

In the book "Game" by Barry Lyga, the protagonist Jazz Dent is called to New York City to assist the NYPD and FBI in catching a serial killer known as the Hat Dog Killer. Jazz, who has a unique insight into the minds of killers due to being raised by a notorious serial killer, navigates the gruesome crimes alongside his girlfriend Connie and friend Howie. The book is filled with suspense, intricate plot twists, and cliffhanger endings that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The story delves into Jazz's inner struggle as he battles his own demons while trying to solve the murders in New York City. The writing style captures the dark and intense atmosphere of the plot, with gory details and unexpected revelations adding to the suspense. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey as Jazz and his companions unravel the mysteries surrounding the Hat Dog Killer, leading to a gripping conclusion that sets the stage for the next installment in the series.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, with Jazz being a particularly compelling figure as he navigates his dual identity.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is vivid and engaging, effectively capturing the psychological complexities of the characters and the eerie atmosphere.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is a gripping mystery centered around Jazz, who helps the NYPD find a serial killer while grappling with his own dark heritage.

Setting:

The setting is primarily in New York City, creating a tense and urban atmosphere distinct from Jazz's previous experiences.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast, maintaining tension throughout with unexpected plot twists.
Well, it didn’t matter. Not anymore. Not right now. Names were labels for things, the killer knew. Nouns. Person, place, thing, idea—just like you learned in school. See this thing I drink from? I giv...

Notes:

Jazz Dent is the son of a notorious serial killer, Billy Dent.
He was raised to potentially follow in his father's footsteps but instead tries to help catch killers.
The story features a new killer in NYC dubbed the Hat Dog Killer.
Jazz uses his unique upbringing to assist the police with profiling the killer.
The plot explores Jazz's internal struggle with his identity and inherited traits from his father.
The book is told from multiple perspectives including Jazz, his girlfriend Connie, and his friend Howie.
Game ends on a significant cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for the next installment.
Despite being a YA novel, the themes include graphic violence and psychological horror.
Connie plays a significant role as it delves into her relationship with Jazz, amidst danger and suspense.
The mix of suspenseful twists and character development keeps readers engaged throughout the book.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic depictions of murder, psychological distress, themes of sexual violence, and emotional trauma.

Has Romance?

There is a significant yet complicated romantic relationship between Jazz and Connie, with emotional depth that reflects the larger themes of the story.

From The Publisher:

Jasper Dent has a special talent. He knows how killers think.

Because his father is America's most notorious serial killer. And he taught Jasper every trick he knows.

A series of gruesome murders in New York gives Jasper the chance to prove that he's not his father's son. It's time to hunt a killer.

But the game has just begun...

Ratings (3)

Incredible (2)
Liked It (1)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (3)
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1 comment(s)

Incredible
1 year

I love the additional POVs for the sidekicks.

 

About the Author:

Barry Lyga is the author of several acclaimed young adult novels, including his debut, The Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl and the New York Times bestseller I Hunt Killers. Barry graduated from Yale with a degree in English, and then worked in the comic book industry before leaving to pursue his writing. His comic book collection is still way too big. His knowledge of how to dispose of bodies is growing by the day. Barry lives and writes in New York City. His website is www.barrylyga.com

 
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