Into The Gray Scale


Fiction - Fantasy - Urban
305 Pages
Reviewed on 11/12/2024
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Into the Gray Scale by Oge Mobuogwu is a dark urban fantasy that explores the boundaries between life and death. After AJ, a murdered drug dealer, finds himself in the afterlife, he remains tethered to his ruthless killer, Governor Tyson. Meanwhile, Detective Maleek Shapiro unearths Tyson's criminal dealings, drawing him into a surreal world where AJ, from beyond, aids his investigation. As Shapiro navigates eerie realms and new terrors, he realizes he might need AJ's help to stop Tyson's violent ambitions. This suspenseful tale merges gritty crime with mysticism, questioning fate, loyalty, and the unknown, while exploring the complex relationships that form between the living and the dead. The story weaves together elements of supernatural thriller and police procedural, creating a unique narrative that challenges readers' perceptions of redemption and justice.

Author Oge Mobuogwu demonstrates an extraordinary talent for genre-blending that I found completely captivating. The transformation of AJ from a street-level drug dealer to a supernatural force for justice is handled with remarkable sensitivity and depth, creating a redemption arc that feels both earned and powerful. The close narration and sharp dialogue also help readers form an instant bond with AJ and understand his unusual anti-hero stance. Something that particularly moved me during this unique read was Mobuogwu's poetic approach to describing the afterlife, creating haunting imagery that lingered long after finishing each chapter. The author's ability to maintain suspense while exploring profound existential questions shows a masterful understanding of pacing and theme, making the supernatural elements feel as real and grounded as the crime narrative. The lyrical quality of the prose elevates every scene, whether depicting gritty street violence or otherworldly encounters, creating an atmosphere that's both unsettling and beautiful. Overall, Into the Gray Scale is an essential read for anyone who appreciates bold, genre-defying fiction that challenges both the mind and the heart, and I would certainly recommend it.

Pikasho Deka

Into The Gray Scale is a dark fantasy thriller by Oge Mobuogwu. After being shot by his boss, Andrew Jackson (AJ) wakes up realizing he's dead and finds himself in the strange place called Animmo, where he meets his former drug smuggling partner, Kester. Detective Maleek Shapiro of the JPD investigates AJ's murder, and the clues lead him toward the mysterious drug named "skooches." Meanwhile, Stanley Weppler discovers a slew of criminal activities in ASCHA, all related to the powerful Arizona State Governor Reginald Tyson. After FBI Agent Catherine Burke is attacked by an entity from another dimension, Maleek joins forces with AJ and his allies in Animmo to bring down Reginald. As the number of the dead rises, the boundaries between the dead and the living become hazy. Can Maleek and his friends stop Reginald and his nefarious plans?

Into The Gray Scale takes you on a surreal rollercoaster of a ride where you don't know what to expect next. Part supernatural sleuth mystery and part dark fantasy thriller, this book grabs you by the scruff of your neck and refuses to let go until it's finished. Twisted, dark, and filled to the brim with mystery and intrigue, supernatural thriller fans are in for a scrumptious treat with Oge Mobuogwu's novel. The author infuses elements of so many different genres into the narrative, crafting a riveting tale of greed, corruption, murder, and mayhem that you simply can't put down. The cast of characters is large, but every one of them has their own agency and roles that make a mark on the reader. I had an absolute blast reading this book. If you enjoy sleuth murder mysteries and dark fantasy, do not miss out on this one!

Luwi Nyakansaila

Into The Gray Scale by Oge Mobuogwu is a haunting story that follows Andrew Jackson aka AJ, a drug dealer who finds himself caught in a surreal afterlife while seeking vengeance against Governor Tyson, the drug kingpin responsible for his death. It also revolves around homicide detective Maleek Shapiro who is pursuing the elusive drug linked to AJ’s murder. Under the guise of being a well-meaning politician, Governor Tyson has been running a drug and human trafficking ring and joining forces with ancient beings. When Maleek discovers Tyson's deceit and perverse nature, he tries to stop him from causing more harm to the city, but he quickly realizes that his opponents are ready to play dirty and drag his name through the mud. Despite being on the verge of losing his job and with a threat to his life, Maleek decides to pursue truth and justice.

Into The Gray Scale is a captivating tale that combines crime and supernatural elements, delving into Nigerian mythology and vengeance. The characters are entangled in the underworld of drug trafficking and violent death, navigating a world where the lines between existence and nonexistence, reality, and dreams blur. Their stories explore themes of consequence, life after death, and redemption. The book also delves into the psychological turmoil of the characters, capturing their desperation and the façade of control they maintain amidst the chaos, inviting readers to ponder profound questions of existence, and morality. Oge Mobuogwu uses plot twists and gruesome scenes to grab the reader’s attention. The story perfectly captures the family and community struggles that many face in society, which adds authenticity and familiarity. The inclusion of profound quotes in the narration made the book interesting and thought-provoking. Overall, this is a unique story with a memorable plot and intriguing characters. I recommend it to anyone who loves twisted dark tales with moral lessons about life and death.

Doreen Chombu

Into The Gray Scale by Oge Mobuogwu is a crime thriller that follows Detective Maleek Shapiro as he investigates a new drug called Skooches, which is wreaking havoc on the streets. As he delves deeper into the drug case, which is connected to the death of AJ, a local drug dealer, he uncovers something far more sinister. The drug requires blood to be added to it, and its origins appear to be tied to supernatural elements. Maleek struggles to balance his personal issues while solving the case but finds himself disgraced and on the brink of losing his sanity. With assistance from individuals from the afterlife, Maleek discovers that the Governor is intricately involved in the case and may be running a crime syndicate with supernatural connections. Maleek realizes he is up against powerful forces threatening not only his career and life but also humanity.

Into The Gray Scale is a dark fantasy drama that addresses various social issues, including addiction, corruption, sex trafficking, and the battle between good and evil. As Detective Maleek Shapiro navigates the treacherous landscape of the drug epidemic intertwined with supernatural elements, the story explores themes of redemption, justice, and the afterlife. The backstories of the characters are central to the story, helping readers understand their motivations and the world they inhabit. In a setting filled with evil, it becomes challenging for many to remain on a righteous path. This reflects our own world, where the corrupt exploit the poor while attempting to portray themselves as heroes. Despite containing disturbing scenes that may trigger sensitive readers, Into The Gray Scale is a compelling read. It dives deep into the complexities of human nature and imparts crucial lessons about morality.

Maalin Ogaja

Into The Gray Scale by Oge Mobuogwu takes readers on an intense journey through a spectrum of emotions, blending terror, anger, amusement, and sadness with unsettling scenes. AJ, a drug dealer, is killed by Reginald in front of his family. In the afterlife, he encounters Kester, an old acquaintance who shares the same fate. Kester warns AJ that if he wishes to protect his family, even in death, he remains under Reginald’s control. Together, they must collect and supply a new dangerous drug to the world of the living. Meanwhile, Detective Maleek Shapiro investigates AJ's death, discovering Reginald’s corruption as the governor of Arizona. With a group of allies, including some in the afterlife, Maleek struggles to uncover the web of evil and deceit. Will he survive this high-stakes investigation with his life, career, and reputation intact?

In Into The Gray Scale, Oge Mobuogwu explores the theme of life and death, specifically what happens to the soul and body after one dies. He brought in some cultural aspects from the Yoruba culture that intensified the supernatural aspect of the story. The theme of justice and morality, and good versus evil is excellently illustrated through Maleek’s struggle to uncover evil and corruption in both the human and supernatural realms. The unsettling characters in the story contributed to a persistent sense of dread, which greatly intensified the novel’s dark atmosphere. Into The Gray Scale left me grappling with questions about fate, life paths, and predestination. I would recommend this book to fans of supernatural thrillers and dark psychological dramas.