Sep 27, 2005 02:24 PM
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(Updated Sep 27, 2005 02:31 PM)
This is the first Sidney Sheldon book I had read, and co-incidentally this was also his first.
Its the story revolving around a psychoanalyst Judd Stevens (does anyone know whats the difference between a psychiatrist and this one) whose two closely related people are murdered brutally. One of them was a former prostitute whom he employs as his receptionist in his office and the other his homosexual patient who was just about to start his life afresh.
These murders in one single day was a surprise not only to the police, especially detective McGreavy, but also to the doctor himself, who believes he's going to be the next target of a homicidal maniac and the killer is one of his patients who have their own unique problems. One of them is an ex-actress with an insatiable sexual appetite, one is a paranoid (who always believe someone or the other is always planning to kill him), one good looking young lady who is not ready to tell him what her problem actually is etc
The detective Mcgreavy on the other hand believes that the doctor has himself murdered the victims as they were closely associated with him. To find out the rest, read this superb page-turner.
This book has made me a fan of Sheldon. Earlier I had always read good reviews of his novels but never really got an oppurtunity to read his works. After reading good reviews of this novel, I was tempted to go to my nearest bookstore and pick up his novel, which thankfully I did.
Its gripping right till the end, and the identity of the killer is indeed surprising. There are several tense moments in the narrative, the brutal killings send a shiver down your spine, and before you realize you are totally engrossed into the novel.
Sidney's writing certainly deserves applause. There are several twists and turns involved, you can't help but suspecting each and every character in the absorbing narrative. The characterization is also superb. The mental situation, dilemma, physical and emotional trauma of the lead character Judd Stevens is shown very nicely.
A must read for those who like psycho-thrillers
Thank you, Mr sheldon!
