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Virion

James R. Templer
Black Rose Writing (2011)
ISBN 9781612960203
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (05/11)

James R. Templer’s novel, “Virion,” opens with the following thought-provoking passage:  “Like people, viruses come in many sizes and shapes.  Like people, some viruses are harmless; some are menaces; some are deadly.  The root of the word virus means toxin or poison.  There are those among us who are pure poison – whose thoughts are as toxic as cyanide.  And toxic thoughts at some point poison the soul until it is dead and dried up like the shed skin of a snake.  That’s when toxic thoughts turn to poisonous acts; that’s when the thinkers become destroyers – disciples of Satan some might say.  They may be right- after all, a virion is but a disciple of the virus.”  (p.4)

The main character in the book is Alexander who possesses psychic abilities which he uses to help identify criminals.  Through the course of the novel, we learn how he came to have these visions and how he corrals them in his mind and depicts the individuals on paper.  Having these abilities does not come without a price though.  Alexander not only finds himself the target of Virion, but everyone around him is also threatened.

One thing I found interesting is that Templer’s protagonist has a similar background to the author himself, most notably the Master of Fine Arts in Painting and Drawing.  I enjoy when authors give their characters familiar backgrounds, as I know that they are knowledgeable in the areas of which they write and it gives a more real feeling to the book.  Although I don’t know much of the Galveston, TX area it does appear that the author is quite familiar with the locale.  I think that this book would be a very enjoyable read to those who are familiar with or live in that area.  It is always fun to read books set in places that you know well.

The suspenseful novel moves along at a fast pace with never a dull moment.  The 303 pages flew by and I didn’t want the book to end.  “Virion” was filled with an interesting, unique cast of characters who were developed very well.  I thoroughly enjoyed Templer’s mystery and I am hoping he has plans for more in the years to come. 

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