"The Drain Brains," written by Patrick McGowan, is an intriguing submission of original fiction that focuses on the harrowing adventures and exploits of the main characters. Restless and precocious, a group of 7th grade students find the dangerous allure of running and hiding in the darkest recesses of the drain water tunnels running beneath their town irresistible. Paying little heed to the overwhelming stench and filth of the environment, they discover a sense of camaraderie among themselves. However, when a member of their close-knit society aptly named "Fish" finds himself in a most precarious situation, the level of their dedication to one another is severely tested. From this foundation, the author constructs a riveting saga.

Composed in captivating narrative and compelling dialogue, the story flows at a brisk tempo. The plot contains more than a few strategically placed, unexpected twists that should maintain the reader's interest throughout. The characters are developed and presented in a multi-dimensional fashion revealing the intricacies of their unique personalities and individual agendas. In addition, Mr. McGowan effectively manages to avoid artificially padding the work with superfluous material and unnecessary characters thereby keeping the focus directed towards the primary story line. Navigating the plot to a well-conceived and logical conclusion, the author could leave the reader with the sense of time well invested in the reading of this story. Patrick McGowan's highly creative style of writing combined with a keen attention to detail could further enhance the appeal of this work.

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