“Spoiler” by Michael J. Bowler

• 08/24/2022
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Spoiler

Michael J. Bowler
Independently Published (2022)
ISBN: 979-8986224107
Reviewed by Sheri Hoyte for Reader Views (08/2022)

“Spoiler” is the third and final book in The Healer Chronicles, an epic YA fantasy series by Michael J. Bowler.

Gifted with supernatural powers, twins Alex and Andy have the capacity to control life and death, making them targeted assets by groups who want to use them to progress their own agendas. In this dynamic conclusion, Alex is being held prisoner by Ms. G., head of the Kalandrian cult and his former teacher. Trapped inside a secret mountainside that hosts a gateway to another dimension, Alex is the key to opening that gateway and, though he refuses to cooperate, how long can he hold out when Ms. G threatens to harm everyone dear to him? It’s an epic battle of good versus evil, with the fate of humanity at stake.

“Spoiler” is the perfect way to wrap up an amazing journey with a group of special education kids who grow into their own and then some. It’s a successful combination of coming of age, fantasy, paranormal, horror and sci-fi, and Bowler’s grasp on crafting a riveting fast-paced tale with outstanding character development makes this unpredictable adventure as exciting as it is satisfying.

As with the first two books in the Healer Chronicles, “Spoiler” also contains graphic gore, violence directed toward young characters, and use of profanity throughout, with an ample number of horrifying scenes that will leave readers peeking out from under the covers. Cockroaches anyone? I don’t know about you, but they are strangely more frightening to me than any old demon, and Bowler has vividly fabricated one of the most horrific cockroach battle scenes ever. I’m almost sorry he is so good at his craft because I can’t unsee that event, though I’m sure it will thoroughly satisfy teens aged 16+ who have an appetite for such things.

No “spoilers” in this review, I kept it vague on purpose. Though “Spoiler” can be enjoyed as an exciting standalone story, I strongly urge readers to start the series from the beginning. Trust me, you don’t want to miss a thing! As YA books go, this is by far the most exciting series I’ve read lately. I will say I’m going to miss these characters. Absolutely phenomenal.