Review of Tortured Lover

[Kajori Sheryl Paul]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Tortured Lover" by Joshua M Toomer.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Most of us strive for perfection. We aspire to create a perfect world with no injustice. However, have we ever wondered if this is really feasible? Have we ever thought if we, ourselves, patronize injustice in our pursuit of justice?

In Joshua M. Toomer's Tortured Lover, we meet a man who claims to be the harbinger of justice. He calls himself the Tortured Lover. When bodies start piling up in the city, it is evident that a serial killer is at large. This serial killer, the Tortured Lover, claims to kill only those that deserve death. The entire police department is trying their best to capture him. However, it seems that he is always a step ahead. Somehow, it seems that detective Kelly James has formed a deeper connection with the killer. Despite her best efforts, she always misses him.

Who is the Tortured Lover? Why is he killing people? How is he connected with Kelly? Will Kelly be able to capture him? Will she be able to put a stop to the murder and mayhem?

Joshua M. Toomer was a brilliant storyteller. He made the reader feel the chill and thrill along with the characters. He used all the different imageries to weave a story that is truly a delight. When the killer comes to kill, we cannot help but feel the cold tingling of fear along with his victim. I would like to mention that some of the murder scenes are a tad graphic. Hence, people who are not fond of violence should read it with caution.

The Tortured Lover is a nuanced character. He is not someone who kills just for the sake of it. It is evident that he has a purpose. For him, his murders are nothing but art. He is a character who we love to hate and hate to love. Kelly is a determined detective. She does her best to capture the killer. It baffles her to think that the killer has connected with her on some level. Indeed, it was intriguing to witness the game between the killer and Kelly.

Let us now discuss the cons. I have to say there were too many characters. It was difficult to keep track of them. This might create confusion for some. I found a number of errors as well. I am sure a round of professional proofreading would fix the grammatical and punctuation errors. Also, I found the ending to be somewhat abrupt. I hope that there is a sequel as I would really like to read it.

I would like to mention that Toomer had started writing this book when he was only in the eighth grade. It is truly marvelous for a young boy to weave such a complex and intriguing story. I am sure that he would be an amazing writer if he had lived longer. I would really like to read the other books he had written before his untimely demise at the age of twenty-five. I appreciate his mother for taking the initiative to publish his books. His stories need to be told.

Keeping in mind the pros and cons, I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend this book to fans of thrillers and mysteries.

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Tortured Lover
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[Pauls_]

I don't like books that contain violence. As I read through, I would love to know who the killer is too. It's tragic that Toomer died at such a young age.

[Umesh Bhatt]

Very interesting plot. The tortured lover giving justice and killing the criminals one by one. The review has generated a lot of interest to go through the book. Thanks.

[Amy Luman]

I’m not really into gore, but my interest is piqued. Everyone, everywhere, thinks that they’re doing what they do for the right reason and I guess that includes the Tortured Lover. I hope Kelly can stop his killings.

[Blessing Odii]

This review left me wanting to grab a copy of this book. I would love to find out the connection between detective Kelly James and the killer. Nice job!

[Reading_Jack]

I also want to learn who The Tortured Lover is. thanks for an intriguing review. I am looking forward to an exciting read.

[Mbenma Esther 080]

I can't stop reading thrillers because they are go-to books. Thanks for the review.

[Mathurambiga Maniom]

The title and the cover itself gives me a thrill to read the book! It is indeed a marvelous plot where mystery of the killer and his disappearing to each approach by the cops will surely keep us focused all along the story. I love these genres, therefore, I'm looking forward to read this book. Thank you for the awesome review!

[Chothi]

An honest and as well as detailed respectful review. Great job. I am definitely adding this in my reading list.

[Aisha Yakub]

Great storyline. The tortured lover administers justice through injustice. I love crime thrillers, so I should be checking this out. Thank you for the review.