3 Women, 4 Towns, 5 Bodies & Other Stories

Walker’s moody story collection blends elements of noir, thriller, and romance. Many of the 12 entries focus on dominant and resourceful female protagonists who utilize their wits and sexuality to avenge the men who have harmed or underestimated them. Perhaps the best selection—and the most literary in tone—is “The Second Coming,” in which an underhanded reverend meets his match in a savvy young woman. Also notable is “Coming Home,” in which a soldier in 1839 Hungary is reunited with a past lover. Walker’s writing is at its finest in moments of descriptive storytelling. In contrast, repetitive erotic interludes often become more gratuitous than integral to the plot. For example, in the title novella, a female sniper, whose primary targets are violent and abusive men, silences a potential witness by removing her clothes. As a result, many of the characters feel interchangeable and can, unfortunately, be reduced to sexual stereotypes. Still, those who like to see awful men receive just retribution will be satisfied. [em](BookLife) [/em]