The Lucifer Messiah
Frank Cavallo
Medallion, Jul 2006, $6.99
ISBN: 1932815870

In the Fall of 1946 in New York City, goons employed by Salvatore "Sam" Calabrese chase after Sean Mulachy, but as they area about to catch up to him, a mist forms out of nowhere hiding Sean from them. Once they leave, he visits his best friend Vince Sicario, who is shocked to see Sean as the last time they saw one another was in 1917 when the latter enlisted. Sean looks like he did in 1917 while Vince has aged three decades.

Two groups of beings search for Sean; the Morrigan and her minions, and Argus, who looks like a six tear old and his allies. Both believe that Sean is Lucifer reborn to bring light and wisdom to a troubled world. However while the Morrigan believes that humanity is not ready f such a revelation, Argus deems the prophecy of Nestor has begun. Sean must learn who he is before either side gets to him.

Sean initially does not believe he is Lucifer, but begins to reconsider as strange phenomena occur including his lack of aging and the Church demonizing his allies and the Morigan needing to kill him so the prophecy doesn't come true. Adding to the suspense is that much of the cast wear human disguises to masquerade their true essence. Frank Cavallo cleverly uses creatures of myths and legends to further the tale as the audience wonders what is good and evil and who lines up where including the protagonist. Dark fantasy fans will cherish this urban thriller.

Harriet Klausner