A Book A Week

At twenty-one, Hardy “Hardly” Reed finds himself at what seems like the pinnacle of his contributions to the world, which, frankly, isn't substantial. He's affable but lacks drive, working a modest job as a scare actor in a local amusement park's haunted western show. Outside of work, he mainly indulges in recreational drugs, drifting through life with little purpose. His tendency to sidestep conflict and temper expectations traces back to his challenging upbringing in the foster care system. This cautious approach to life is one Hardly has no intention of changing.

When he spots two children—a boy and a girl—sitting alone on a city bench, something tugs at him. Upon closer inspection, he notices the familiar marks of cigarette burns on them, scars he knows all too well from his own past. Someone is harming these kids. Despite his inclination to remain unnoticed, Hardly feels compelled to intervene. Even as a woman drives them away, the children linger in his thoughts. He reports the incident to Child Protective Services but faced with an overwhelmed and understaffed system, he doubts his report will make much difference.

While Hardly isn't the most reliable person, this situation feels different. With no one else to advocate for them, he feels responsible for ensuring the children's safety. This unexpected turn of events makes Hardly wonder if this is his true calling or just another letdown in a series of disappointments. Could this be the purpose he's been searching for, or is it another fleeting chapter in his unremarkable life?

Lou Berney, acclaimed for his previous work, November Road, has once again demonstrated his storytelling prowess with Dark Ride. Despite its brevity, the novel packs a powerful punch. Berney introduces us to Hardly, a deeply flawed protagonist driven by an intrinsic sense of justice, even as he grapples with his own place in the world. As Hardly morphs into an amateur sleuth of sorts, his journey is marked by setbacks and small victories, making him a multi-dimensional and riveting character.

Beyond the compelling characters, Berney excels in creating an evocative setting. The world he crafts feels authentic and lived-in, adding depth to an emotionally charged and gritty narrative. Particularly captivating is the abandoned dark ride at Hardly's workplace, which serves as the nerve center for his mission. The juxtaposition of this forgotten, desolate space within a bustling environment adds an intriguing layer to the story.

While Dark Ride delves into dark themes such as child abuse, drug addiction, and violence, it also offers a glimmer of redemption. The narrative sheds light on the shortcomings of systems meant to protect society's most vulnerable, making the novel not just a thrilling read but also a thought-provoking commentary. Berney's latest work is a haunting and resonant story that lingers long after turning the final page.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 26)