Kill the Dead (Sandman Slim, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Richard Kadrey's "Kill the Dead," the second installment in the Sandman Slim series, plunges James Stark, a.k.a. Sandman Slim, deeper into the treacherous underworld of Los Angeles. Picking up shortly after the events of the first book, James is still reeling from the aftermath of his brutal confrontation with the forces of Hell, struggling with both physical and psychological scars. He's trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy, working as a sort of freelance demon hunter for hire.

The main plot revolves around a resurrected, ancient, and incredibly powerful being known only as "The Dead." This entity is a primordial force of death and decay, seeking to unleash a plague upon the world. Its reemergence is connected to a series of gruesome murders, with victims exhibiting bizarre, rapidly advancing decomposition. James, despite his aversion to involvement, finds himself pulled into the heart of this crisis.

Key characters besides Sandman Slim include his complex and often volatile relationship with his girlfriend, the demon, Lucretia. Their bond is tested by the escalating threat, forcing James to confront his own demons and the compromises he's willing to make for survival and love. He's also assisted, somewhat reluctantly, by the enigmatic and deadly Hitomi, a master assassin with supernatural abilities. Their alliance, built on mutual necessity, becomes a crucial element in confronting The Dead.

The supporting cast is populated by a colorful array of characters from the supernatural underground of LA, including both helpful allies and dangerous adversaries, many carrying their own secrets and agendas. These encounters highlight the intricate and often morally ambiguous world that Kadrey has crafted.

The overarching themes in "Kill the Dead" center around the nature of good and evil, redemption, and the corrupting influence of power. James's internal struggles reflect these themes. He's a morally compromised antihero, capable of great violence but also driven by a desire, however flawed, to protect the innocent. His journey is a testament to the challenges of navigating a world where lines between right and wrong are perpetually blurred.

The novel’s pacing is relentless, maintaining a constant sense of urgency and danger. The plot twists and turns, showcasing Kadrey's talent for creating a thrilling and unpredictable narrative. Ultimately, "Kill the Dead" is a darker, more complex, and even more action-packed continuation of Sandman Slim's adventures, solidifying his place as a compelling and unforgettable character in urban fantasy literature.