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Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
“Everything’s the same as it’s always been, Kurt. It’s only our perception of the world that’s changed.” In the novel Without A Face by Lonnie Busch, that sentence would be a significant understatement. The curtain rises in Rescue, a small town somewhere in the American hinterland in 1967. This town is home to Kurt and Alice Franklin, a loving couple who are the epitome of average in a world that makes sense right up until it doesn't. The catalyst? A man wearing a fedora shows up unexpectedly one evening and, in no uncertain terms, demands that the Franklins accompany him. After managing to elude their would-be kidnapper, Alice and Kurt embark on a surreal journey while pursued by a peculiar flying craft that shouldn't exist. As the Franklins search for answers and a way to go home, they are about to discover that reality truly is a matter of perception.
Beguiling and immersive, Without A Face by Lonnie Busch is akin to an episode of The Twilight Zone, and a great episode at that. The excellent plot is presented as a mystery with light sci-fi elements, focusing on the tribulations of a couple fleeing from something that defies easy explanation. At the same time, subtle themes of love and what makes us truly human are a constant undercurrent in the narrative. Character development is also good, with Kurt being portrayed as a no-nonsense yet slightly naive man, and Alice as a sweet yet subtly strong woman. These two individuals are well-matched and vital to making the story meaningful. The pace is quite fast, paired with a clear writing style, and results in a smooth and easy read. For fans of shows like The Outer Limits or The Twilight Zone, this book is a must-read.
