The novel "Death of the Wolf" depicts slow but steady destruction, which is compared to static on a concrete surface, spilled beer on the floor of a bar after closing time, and ashes that stay cool long after the fire has gone out.

You can picture a moment years from now with Amber Jade Smith at home on her couch taking notes or writing, watching TV without distraction.

Yo-Blake didn't show up with a bang; he was just another one that showed up with pressure. With Static in the Chest. With others' opinions rattling in his head like empty beer bottles hitting a concrete driveway.