Reviewed by: Paula Limbaugh
Wow, where to start? Nepenthes species is an exciting read! Matthew V. Brockmeyer’s tale of a runaway train tells a story filled with realistic characters you’ll either sympathize with or despise.
Old-school hippies Rebecca and Marigold and her young daughter Megan think they’ve found the ideal way to make money while still staying true to their beliefs of living off the land. Coyote was an acquaintance who needed someone to keep an eye on the marijuana plants in his yard in a now-abandoned Northern California lumber camp while he was on a business trip. Despite rumors that the building was haunted, they accepted his offer.
As Rebecca’s story appears in the foreground, we find Diesel’s story appearing in the background. Diesel cars are a real mess. A burned-out meth dealer who, though he’s seen better days, is still uneasy about the fact that Coyote’s residence is actually his property. Add to that his grumpy son who feels Dad isn’t doing enough to get his property back, and you know trouble is brewing.
The first person to see the ghost was little Megan. At first, Rebecca chalked it up to an overactive imagination and a lack of playmates, but soon strange things started happening. When the coyotes return, Rebecca again offers to let them stay and help plant the next batch of plants, but Rebecca hesitates, but Marigold convinces her to start over again. What a mistake!
There’s an evil premonition in the air as the characters begin to fall into place in this disastrous story. You start to fear turning the page because you know nothing good will come of it. You want to yell, no, don’t. However, it’s too late. The die is cast, you just have to roll with the punches.
Brock Meyer’s debut novel has all the makings of an unforgettable story. Can’t wait to see what he comes up with next. You can pick up your copy here!
5/5 
