Seven Demons

Truhen’s rambling sequel to 2018’s The Price You Pay opens with Jack Price, “CEO of a global criminal enterprise with deep roots in the community and a justified reputation for unparalleled savagery,” in Switzerland, where a nine-year-old he’s dubbed Evil Hansel has just stabbed him in the leg. The author takes his time explaining what led to this act of violence as he introduces Price’s crew, which includes the Doc, “who basically is walking science with whom I am in a Nietzschean and highly charged sexual relationship,” and Lucille, “a large guy wearing a suit made of sharp edges.” Price is retained by someone he calls Mr. Client to rob a supposedly invulnerable Swiss bank. Mr. Client desires 10 metal suitcases secured inside the vault, successfully tempting Price with a €300 million payday. As the start telegraphs, the crime doesn’t go as planned. The plot is almost lost amid such odd references as rabbit “fearboners” and run-on sentences. A large appetite for violent absurdity is required. Agent: Patrick Walsh, PEW Literary. (May)