Culling the Herd


Fiction - Literary
330 Pages
Reviewed on 04/18/2018
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

I'm a practicing physician, dad, grandpa, and husband in Southern California. As well as being an avid hiker and backpacker, I accompany medical-mission groups to less-developed parts of the world. I wrote Culling the Herd in response to the dangers humanity is causing to our environment, but I definitely do not recommend the solutions posed by the characters in the novel. Please check out my previous novels, Sierra Quest and Gunther’s Cavern (the latter a Young Adult novel).

    Book Review

Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite

Culling the Herd by Edward Etzkorn is a bold narrative that follows the journey of Chloe Freestaff, a young journalist who wants nothing but to gain recognition in her profession. She follows a group of scientists determined to save mankind from itself. These scientists believe that overpopulation is causing irreversible damage to the earth and they are looking for a way to stop it. She is lured by the kindness of Herb, a PhD, and his wife, Lavinia, so she joins their group, but not long after, she begins to understand that others in the group may have sinister plans that could bring untold suffering to humanity. She is trapped. Now she must fight for her survival and find a way to escape and get the secret out before it’s too late, but can she outwit the cunning of this group?

Edward Etzkorn’s novel is a great success, a story that deals with real issues facing humanity and our environment. I enjoyed the way the author treads the unfamiliar scientific terrain, the compelling cast of characters, and the riveting plot. The story begins slowly, but the pace is measured and intriguing as it moves forward. The conflict is monumental and I enjoyed the fact that the protagonist has many flaws. She’s had a failed marriage and for a long time has survived only on her instincts for the major decisions she makes. It is interesting to notice the way she develops throughout the story. Culling the Herd has twists and unexpected surprises that will beguile readers and keep them turning the pages. This is a well-crafted story with memorable characters, an exciting conflict, and an engaging plot.