Holy Mayhem

This lighthearted comedic novel from Walker centers around two unemployed cousins, Joy and Patience, who are also restless members of Mount Kneel Down Baptist Church. Their sass and goofy antics extend not just to their dog, Felony, but to a cast of otherworldly characters who are up to no good, as the title suggests. The plot is hard to follow in part because the narrative is cluttered with characters. Walker’s language is also riddled with clichés and banal descriptions. Much of what the characters say and do is reminiscent of sitcoms and gospel plays, but readers may still find a few chuckles. After all, the names of the characters, like Prophet Long Jevity, seem made for laughs. There are, however, far more recycled turns of phrase and outlandish people in the book than there are laughs; the title is the best description for the book’s overall effect. (Nov.)