As this is a YA novel, I think that Hayes will have similar sixteen year old readers, identifying with always being the odd one, the outcast. Watching them develop and get out of the perilous dangers hunting them was a lot of fun. Both Lysander and Samantha were both the reason I was reminded of those other authors. The two main characters interested me a lot, too. But, let's just say that there are a few twists and turns and a lot of action along the way that will keep you guessing. I don't want to go into too much more plot for fear of ruining things. Something is after Lysander, something that is killing other people in town and making it look like suicide. Which is a good thing, because he's going to need their help. Right away he makes more than a few enemies, but he also makes some friends. Back then, I would read books from the likes of Dean Koontz, John Saul, and Stephen King. It reminded me of the late summer nights I used to stay up and read the darkness away when I was a lonely teenager. I felt a familiarity with the prose and characters almost right away. One book that might make that list is Malice by Griffin Hayes. When I decide to do my top ten reads of the year in month or so, it's going to be one of the most difficult lists I've ever had to make since I started recording these things. One great book after another has passed through my hands all year, both independent and professional fields of publishing, too. I've been on a roll lately with my reading.

As for me, I'll keep writing, and dodging any speeding church vans heading my way. Malice is now stronger, creepier and a far smoother reading experience. I also added 5000 words and at least two new scenes. I kept that in mind during this last edit and nicked out any bucket of blood that wasn't absolutely necessary. I originally wrote the book to be frightening and creepy (which I'm told it is), but it wasn't intended to be a blood squirting gore fest. On July 17, 2012, I released a newly edited version of Malice. But rest assured, I take all of this very seriously and when I begin to see patterns in the kinds of comments readers make, I also take very careful note. After all, in the end, it's for you that I sit down everyday to peer into the shadows and report back on the dark and clammy things I find lurking within. Quite honestly, I read and appreciate all the feedback I get from both sides.

Others come from readers who pray I'll be struck down by a speeding church van. Many are glowing letters from people who thoroughly enjoyed the book. To date, Malice has generated by far the most emails from readers.