Tim Downs ~ Head Game

Head Game
Tim Downs
Hardcover: 368 pages
Publisher: WestBow Press: January '07
ISBN: 1595540237










Book Description:

"Three men--served together in Desert Storm. Their job was to create propaganda leaflets that stripped the enemy of his will to resist. Now, fifteen years later, the enemy is out to return the favor. He's playing head games with them...and won't stop until their worlds are turned completely upside down."


Reviewed by Gina Holmes

Head Game is a psychological thriller told by the talented Tim Downs of Plague Maker fame. The story begins with an impressive author-illustrated suicide note which immediately evokes interest.

Though not told at typical thriller warped-speed, this novel had the perfect blend of humor, pace and amazing character development.

Each intertwining storyline was well thought out and satisfying. We follow the lives of half a dozen characters, each unique, multi-faceted and engaging. The "head game" aspect builds slowly, as a good psychological thriller should, until the last few chapters which had me ripping back the pages in hungry anticipation.

Tim tells a compelling story full of three-dimensional characters and beautifully executed plot twists.

There was one minor disappointment for me: A section of the story where the antagonist explains in detail his motivations. Downs did such a great job at showing this that it became a case of show AND tell. I already got it and didn't care for the neon-sign.

Other than that one minor & subjective infraction, Head Game is one of the best written books I've read this year and I can't wait to get my hands on his next project. I enthusiastically recommend this book!