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Forgive Me, Alex
Tony Hooper stands in shadow across the street, one amongst many in the crowd of curiosity-hounds gathered to watch a monster's release. Seventeen years after Mitchell Norton, the devil, terrorized Algonquin, Illinois on a spree of kidnapping, torture and murder, the authorities release the butcher from psychiatric prison.
Tony longs to charge across the street to destroy Norton--no remorse--as if stepping on a cockroach. Only sheer force of will prevents his doing so.
The devil walks the world again. What shall Tony do about it? Aye, what indeed.
After all, this is what Tony does. It's who he is. The devil himself long ago made Tony into this hunter of monsters. What a sweet twist of fate this is, that he may still, finally, administer justice.
Will FBI Special Agent Linda Monroe stop him? She owes him her life, so how can she possibly put an end to his?
Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton battle for supremacy, with law enforcement always a step away, in this story of justice and vengeance, evil and redemption, fear and courage, love and loss..
Tony longs to charge across the street to destroy Norton--no remorse--as if stepping on a cockroach. Only sheer force of will prevents his doing so.
The devil walks the world again. What shall Tony do about it? Aye, what indeed.
After all, this is what Tony does. It's who he is. The devil himself long ago made Tony into this hunter of monsters. What a sweet twist of fate this is, that he may still, finally, administer justice.
Will FBI Special Agent Linda Monroe stop him? She owes him her life, so how can she possibly put an end to his?
Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton battle for supremacy, with law enforcement always a step away, in this story of justice and vengeance, evil and redemption, fear and courage, love and loss..
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2011
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July 22, 2012I just read Forgive Me, Alex by Lane Diamond, and against all odds, I was totally hooked. This novel is classed as a literary thriller. While I love lit fic, I tend to hate thrillers... well, thrillers in the film format. I don’t care how hyped a movie is, I just cannot get into a formulaic plot where you know the good guy will win at the last minute. No, high budget explosions and death-defying stunts don’t keep me from noticing a paper thin plot. Sorry!
So imagine my surprise when I found myself glued to Forgive Me, Alex. I couldn’t turn those e-ink pages fast enough. I had to know if the devil would be brought to justice, if Diana would be okay, if my suspicion about the latest rash of killings was dead on (love me an obvious pun).
Well, this seeming dichotomy proves what I’ve known all along: that books are just a million times better than movies. Is this novel formulaic? Ahh, heck no! Would I have been able to get into Forgive Me, Alex on the silver screen? Sadly, I may never have given it the chance. I’m grateful that I broke away from my comfort zone and discovered an awesome new book—even though it gave me horrible nightmares.
The nightmares, okay. Despite the fact that I just had a schmancy new security system installed, which guards all my doors and windows and gives me a nice panic button right next to my bed, I was utterly convinced someone was trying to break into my house the night after I started reading Forgive Me, Alex (and found myself about halfway through). I woke to every little sound and at several points had to double-check to make sure my limbs were safely tucked beneath my comforter. Because we all know such precautions keep us safe from monsters under the bed and serial killers lurking outside the door.
Luckily, I survived to write this review and can now whole-heartedly recommend this exciting novel to all of you lovely people. It’s rare for me to have such a visceral reaction to a book, and it’s even rarer for me to cry. In fact, I’ve only ever cried while reading two books—A Prayer for Owen Meany and Marley & Me. Now I have a hat trick, because I cried for dear sweet Alex.
I could rehash a blow-by-blow of the plot or delve into the compelling characterization, laud the unique story-telling format, or gush about how I just couldn’t put it down, but I trust you’ll take my eager recommendation and soon discover all this for yourself. I hope you enjoyed my first ever stream-of-consciousness review (inspired by my good friend at Naimeless).
DISCLAIMER: This book is touring with my company, Novel Publicity, so in the interest of being ethical, I cannot assign a star-rating to this book. Hopefully, my text review speaks volumes for how much I enjoyed this novel!
So imagine my surprise when I found myself glued to Forgive Me, Alex. I couldn’t turn those e-ink pages fast enough. I had to know if the devil would be brought to justice, if Diana would be okay, if my suspicion about the latest rash of killings was dead on (love me an obvious pun).
Well, this seeming dichotomy proves what I’ve known all along: that books are just a million times better than movies. Is this novel formulaic? Ahh, heck no! Would I have been able to get into Forgive Me, Alex on the silver screen? Sadly, I may never have given it the chance. I’m grateful that I broke away from my comfort zone and discovered an awesome new book—even though it gave me horrible nightmares.
The nightmares, okay. Despite the fact that I just had a schmancy new security system installed, which guards all my doors and windows and gives me a nice panic button right next to my bed, I was utterly convinced someone was trying to break into my house the night after I started reading Forgive Me, Alex (and found myself about halfway through). I woke to every little sound and at several points had to double-check to make sure my limbs were safely tucked beneath my comforter. Because we all know such precautions keep us safe from monsters under the bed and serial killers lurking outside the door.
Luckily, I survived to write this review and can now whole-heartedly recommend this exciting novel to all of you lovely people. It’s rare for me to have such a visceral reaction to a book, and it’s even rarer for me to cry. In fact, I’ve only ever cried while reading two books—A Prayer for Owen Meany and Marley & Me. Now I have a hat trick, because I cried for dear sweet Alex.
I could rehash a blow-by-blow of the plot or delve into the compelling characterization, laud the unique story-telling format, or gush about how I just couldn’t put it down, but I trust you’ll take my eager recommendation and soon discover all this for yourself. I hope you enjoyed my first ever stream-of-consciousness review (inspired by my good friend at Naimeless).
DISCLAIMER: This book is touring with my company, Novel Publicity, so in the interest of being ethical, I cannot assign a star-rating to this book. Hopefully, my text review speaks volumes for how much I enjoyed this novel!
December 5, 2015
**On sale for $0.99 on ebook through Dec. 11 through Evolved Publishing's Holiday Book Sale**
This book is gruesome and emotional right out of the gate. The main character, Tony, goes through some monumental losses throughout the story. These aren't the kind of losses that you can just blow off as insignificant because Lane's writing makes you really care about these people and what's going on. Lane excels in this area of sympathetic characters.
The sympathy you have for the characters makes this a tough read at times. I blazed through the first half in one or two days, which for me is saying a lot, especially with other books already in my queue. But, I got to a point where the gruesome scenes with the serial killer made me put it down. I give Lane credit for painting a very real picture of what it would be like to be Tony, to be the serial killer, and to be all the other people that suffer and were involved with this monster—even to the point that you sympathize with the monster himself.
Even though I didn't really "enjoy" reading the scenes with the serial killer, I was intrigued to get into the killer's mind, and they were very well written. This is the kind of book you can see playing out in your head as if you were there. Lane uses the first person to masterfully get you into the character's minds so that you can feel everything as if it were happening to you. I could see how and why this guy did these awful things, and it made the story more horrific because of how real it seemed.
In the end, I was pushed to find out what happens to the main character's girlfriend. As usual, Lane wrote a compelling love story for Tony and Dianna that really pulls you in at the beginning of the story. This is the hook that will keep you reading in spite of the gruesome actions by the serial killer because you want to know what happens between Tony and Dianna. Even though much of the book is written from 17 years after Tony first met the serial killer, you still don't quite know what happens until the end; and even then, he leaves you wondering and needing to know what will happen in the sequel.
Between 50% and like 70% I was thinking this would be a 4 star review because I figured I had Lane pegged on what would happen to Diane. I was partly right, and partly wrong. The conclusion left me realistically satisfied and very impressed with Lane's story telling. Life isn't a fairy tale, and I commend Lane for his conclusion. That, combined with Lane's excellent writing, makes this a 5 star book. I walk away with a deep emotional connection to these characters and their plight. They are like old friends, and any time a book can create that bond with characters, I say well done. He also did an excellent job with the moral question of what you would do if you were in Tony's place and life has been so traumatically difficult. How many loved ones could you see die before you justified vengeance?
The only problems I had a few problems with this book: a little bit of a lull after the middle, which is hard to avoid when you are setting up the ending, and in order to be real; and some of the sex and violence was more than I wanted to experience, but in the end, that's the ugly truth that Lane had to portray to tell this story right. As he warns in the intro, this book is not for kids.
If you are willing to experience some of the darker sides to life, you'll walk away with new "friends," and a deeper understanding of life and appreciation for the loved ones you still have.
This book is gruesome and emotional right out of the gate. The main character, Tony, goes through some monumental losses throughout the story. These aren't the kind of losses that you can just blow off as insignificant because Lane's writing makes you really care about these people and what's going on. Lane excels in this area of sympathetic characters.
The sympathy you have for the characters makes this a tough read at times. I blazed through the first half in one or two days, which for me is saying a lot, especially with other books already in my queue. But, I got to a point where the gruesome scenes with the serial killer made me put it down. I give Lane credit for painting a very real picture of what it would be like to be Tony, to be the serial killer, and to be all the other people that suffer and were involved with this monster—even to the point that you sympathize with the monster himself.
Even though I didn't really "enjoy" reading the scenes with the serial killer, I was intrigued to get into the killer's mind, and they were very well written. This is the kind of book you can see playing out in your head as if you were there. Lane uses the first person to masterfully get you into the character's minds so that you can feel everything as if it were happening to you. I could see how and why this guy did these awful things, and it made the story more horrific because of how real it seemed.
In the end, I was pushed to find out what happens to the main character's girlfriend. As usual, Lane wrote a compelling love story for Tony and Dianna that really pulls you in at the beginning of the story. This is the hook that will keep you reading in spite of the gruesome actions by the serial killer because you want to know what happens between Tony and Dianna. Even though much of the book is written from 17 years after Tony first met the serial killer, you still don't quite know what happens until the end; and even then, he leaves you wondering and needing to know what will happen in the sequel.
Between 50% and like 70% I was thinking this would be a 4 star review because I figured I had Lane pegged on what would happen to Diane. I was partly right, and partly wrong. The conclusion left me realistically satisfied and very impressed with Lane's story telling. Life isn't a fairy tale, and I commend Lane for his conclusion. That, combined with Lane's excellent writing, makes this a 5 star book. I walk away with a deep emotional connection to these characters and their plight. They are like old friends, and any time a book can create that bond with characters, I say well done. He also did an excellent job with the moral question of what you would do if you were in Tony's place and life has been so traumatically difficult. How many loved ones could you see die before you justified vengeance?
The only problems I had a few problems with this book: a little bit of a lull after the middle, which is hard to avoid when you are setting up the ending, and in order to be real; and some of the sex and violence was more than I wanted to experience, but in the end, that's the ugly truth that Lane had to portray to tell this story right. As he warns in the intro, this book is not for kids.
If you are willing to experience some of the darker sides to life, you'll walk away with new "friends," and a deeper understanding of life and appreciation for the loved ones you still have.
March 25, 2012
I have a sick fascination with serial killers. I'm not talking like so sick I want to date Jeffrey Dahmer or anything like that - I am not completely nutters! My sick fascination lies in my overwhelming desire to get into the head of serial killers - to find out what makes them tick.
I suppose this fascination is partly responsible for my going to university for a criminal justice degree, my wealth of grisly murder mysteries and my desire to watch horror gore (even though I can't stand blood in real life). My fascination with serial killers and their ilk make Lane Diamond's "Forgive Me, Alex" a more than perfect novel for curling up with my Kindle Fire.
The Cover
Lately I have been considering the cover more and more, its an important element when it comes to deciding to read a novel. The cover art for "Forgive Me, Alex" hit the money right on the mark. The gunshots, the blood, the peak of the newspaper article, the photo - it all ties elements of the overall story of Tony Hooper into a package that is beyond enticing.
The Story
The story is split between two time periods - 1978 when Mitchell Norton held court during his reign of terror and 1995 when Mitchell Norton is released upon society once again. There are many books out there that try to effectively "split perspective" in an effort to provide a unique experience for the reader. While a laudable ambition - few, if any (in my opinion), accomplish the goal they set out to conquer in any measurable manner.
Lane Diamond, he did it the right way. He was able to shift back and forth between 1978 and 1995 with such ease it never detracted from the story he was trying to tell and only added to the mystery of how things were going to turn out.
I appreciated the chance to "sit in the passenger seat" to Diamond's serial killer. While I will not make you groan by saying Diamond made a serial killer seem more human, less of a monster - his critical stroke of the pen provided a perspective that sketched out more defined dimensions of a character type that is so often seen as two dimensional and flat.
My Final Thoughts
I have actually read this story twice, yes twice! There are new things to discover each time you read it and I would encourage you to pick it up again, see what you can discover about Tony Hooper the second time around ... and see what you can maybe discover about yourself. I was able to understand my sick fascination with serial killers and horror gore a little better with the aide of "Forgive Me, Alex" - it is the only media representation of such a horrific character type that effectively goes beyond the curtain.
Initially I was bothered by what seemed to (me) the lack of depth of the female characters - one of the main ones being Agent Linda Monroe. However as the novel progressed, I saw the lack of depth less and less as a hindrance to the overall story and more as a representation of something Tony Hooper was grasping at to achieve.
Read if...
You like to read murder-centered stories.
You like to get behind the mind of the bad guy.
You like to know about the back story (just as much as the current story), the why of why things are happening the way they are.
You ever wanted to know what one of the more "sick" bad guys was thinking.
I suppose this fascination is partly responsible for my going to university for a criminal justice degree, my wealth of grisly murder mysteries and my desire to watch horror gore (even though I can't stand blood in real life). My fascination with serial killers and their ilk make Lane Diamond's "Forgive Me, Alex" a more than perfect novel for curling up with my Kindle Fire.
The Cover
Lately I have been considering the cover more and more, its an important element when it comes to deciding to read a novel. The cover art for "Forgive Me, Alex" hit the money right on the mark. The gunshots, the blood, the peak of the newspaper article, the photo - it all ties elements of the overall story of Tony Hooper into a package that is beyond enticing.
The Story
The story is split between two time periods - 1978 when Mitchell Norton held court during his reign of terror and 1995 when Mitchell Norton is released upon society once again. There are many books out there that try to effectively "split perspective" in an effort to provide a unique experience for the reader. While a laudable ambition - few, if any (in my opinion), accomplish the goal they set out to conquer in any measurable manner.
Lane Diamond, he did it the right way. He was able to shift back and forth between 1978 and 1995 with such ease it never detracted from the story he was trying to tell and only added to the mystery of how things were going to turn out.
I appreciated the chance to "sit in the passenger seat" to Diamond's serial killer. While I will not make you groan by saying Diamond made a serial killer seem more human, less of a monster - his critical stroke of the pen provided a perspective that sketched out more defined dimensions of a character type that is so often seen as two dimensional and flat.
My Final Thoughts
I have actually read this story twice, yes twice! There are new things to discover each time you read it and I would encourage you to pick it up again, see what you can discover about Tony Hooper the second time around ... and see what you can maybe discover about yourself. I was able to understand my sick fascination with serial killers and horror gore a little better with the aide of "Forgive Me, Alex" - it is the only media representation of such a horrific character type that effectively goes beyond the curtain.
Initially I was bothered by what seemed to (me) the lack of depth of the female characters - one of the main ones being Agent Linda Monroe. However as the novel progressed, I saw the lack of depth less and less as a hindrance to the overall story and more as a representation of something Tony Hooper was grasping at to achieve.
Read if...
You like to read murder-centered stories.
You like to get behind the mind of the bad guy.
You like to know about the back story (just as much as the current story), the why of why things are happening the way they are.
You ever wanted to know what one of the more "sick" bad guys was thinking.
January 23, 2012
This thriller hooked me from the very beginning and I found it near impossible to put it aside. I carried my kindle with me everywhere I went and when snatches of time presented itself, I pulled out the Kindle and read.
I needed to know what was going to happen next despite some of the gruesome and more uncomfortable parts of the story (inside the mind of a serial killer). I found the story engrossing and the style of writing quite crisp, clean, and forthright.
This is definitely not a book for the squeamish and not for children, as this author states right upfront. Be forewarned. But to be fair, it is those scenes that truly let you into the mindset of Mitchell Norton and his rational and without them, this book would not have achieved what it set out to do. As far as Tony is concerned, the experiences he is faced to deal with with make your heart break for him and near the end of the story, you can't help but cheer the guy on despite knowing that for all intents and purposes what he is doing is wrong. You won't care. It feels right and that's all that matters.
The ending is perfect. It works and sets up the sequel wonderfully. I can't wait to see where this story goes. And Mr. Diamond, if you're reading this, cut Tony some slack, will ya? The guy deserves to find his happy ending. But something tells me, he's in for another roller coaster ride from hell.
My only small nit-picky complaint was the shifting from present time (1995) to the past (1978) and varying the different POV's between Mitchell and Tony. At first, it took me off guard and I struggled with it (could just be me though, so don't let that sway your decision--this is great thriller, regardless). So it took me a few chapters to train my eye to read the chapter header. After a few chapters, it was no longer an issue and actually worked very well in telling this particular story.
Overall, loved it. Two thumbs up.
I needed to know what was going to happen next despite some of the gruesome and more uncomfortable parts of the story (inside the mind of a serial killer). I found the story engrossing and the style of writing quite crisp, clean, and forthright.
This is definitely not a book for the squeamish and not for children, as this author states right upfront. Be forewarned. But to be fair, it is those scenes that truly let you into the mindset of Mitchell Norton and his rational and without them, this book would not have achieved what it set out to do. As far as Tony is concerned, the experiences he is faced to deal with with make your heart break for him and near the end of the story, you can't help but cheer the guy on despite knowing that for all intents and purposes what he is doing is wrong. You won't care. It feels right and that's all that matters.
The ending is perfect. It works and sets up the sequel wonderfully. I can't wait to see where this story goes. And Mr. Diamond, if you're reading this, cut Tony some slack, will ya? The guy deserves to find his happy ending. But something tells me, he's in for another roller coaster ride from hell.
My only small nit-picky complaint was the shifting from present time (1995) to the past (1978) and varying the different POV's between Mitchell and Tony. At first, it took me off guard and I struggled with it (could just be me though, so don't let that sway your decision--this is great thriller, regardless). So it took me a few chapters to train my eye to read the chapter header. After a few chapters, it was no longer an issue and actually worked very well in telling this particular story.
Overall, loved it. Two thumbs up.
December 20, 2012
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review****
Okay, I chose to review this one because there were elements of the story that reminded me of Dexter. I'm a fan of both the show and the book and wanted to see if this story could possibly hold up next to Jeff Lindsey's tale of a serial killer who kills other serial killers.
It does!
And then some....
Let me just say that while, yes, there are some Dexter comparison's to be made here, Forgive Me, Alex is a great tale all on it's own. It's dark, twisted, fast paced and allows you to really understand what the main character, Toby Hooper, has become and why. I thought this was an extremely well written thriller with just the right twists and turns to keep me wondering about how the end would turn out.
As far as character development, you've got two distinct voices in this novel. The book is broken into sections where it is narrated by Toby and at other times, by Mitchell Norton. Though both men are considered killers, their mindset and reasons for what they do are vastly different. At first, I thought this technique of being inside their minds at varying points was a bit distracting, but it really hooked me as the book progressed.
There are also flashbacks in the book that take you back to 1978 when terrible things were afoot in the small town of Algonquin. These things are pretty graphic and not for the reader who isn't prepared for them. I have to say that the scene I knew was coming, the one the author sets you up for, was handled really well. It involves the death of a child, (I'm a teacher so the thought of that makes me flinch), and Mr. Diamond could have gone really far with the graphic nature of the crime. Instead, he chose not to and that particular scene ends up standing out for me as being very well written and memorable--almost comforting to the reader.
I enjoyed the female characters in this book. Both came across as strong women--no horror story ladies in distress who trip over that well placed root while running in high heels.
I did know what was going on when the new murders began in Algonquin. That's probably just my own writer brain working and it's pretty hard to pull one over on me. Of course, I say that, but I was surprised by the very end where there is a slight twist to the story. Obviously, I don't want to give away too much, but I noticed there is a second book in this series. Yes! I will definitely read it!
Christmas is coming friends and Forgive Me, Alex would be a great gift for someones Kindle this holiday season! Congrats, Mr. Diamond on writing a fun thriller that I would recommend to our readers here at All Things Writing.
Okay, I chose to review this one because there were elements of the story that reminded me of Dexter. I'm a fan of both the show and the book and wanted to see if this story could possibly hold up next to Jeff Lindsey's tale of a serial killer who kills other serial killers.
It does!
And then some....
Let me just say that while, yes, there are some Dexter comparison's to be made here, Forgive Me, Alex is a great tale all on it's own. It's dark, twisted, fast paced and allows you to really understand what the main character, Toby Hooper, has become and why. I thought this was an extremely well written thriller with just the right twists and turns to keep me wondering about how the end would turn out.
As far as character development, you've got two distinct voices in this novel. The book is broken into sections where it is narrated by Toby and at other times, by Mitchell Norton. Though both men are considered killers, their mindset and reasons for what they do are vastly different. At first, I thought this technique of being inside their minds at varying points was a bit distracting, but it really hooked me as the book progressed.
There are also flashbacks in the book that take you back to 1978 when terrible things were afoot in the small town of Algonquin. These things are pretty graphic and not for the reader who isn't prepared for them. I have to say that the scene I knew was coming, the one the author sets you up for, was handled really well. It involves the death of a child, (I'm a teacher so the thought of that makes me flinch), and Mr. Diamond could have gone really far with the graphic nature of the crime. Instead, he chose not to and that particular scene ends up standing out for me as being very well written and memorable--almost comforting to the reader.
I enjoyed the female characters in this book. Both came across as strong women--no horror story ladies in distress who trip over that well placed root while running in high heels.
I did know what was going on when the new murders began in Algonquin. That's probably just my own writer brain working and it's pretty hard to pull one over on me. Of course, I say that, but I was surprised by the very end where there is a slight twist to the story. Obviously, I don't want to give away too much, but I noticed there is a second book in this series. Yes! I will definitely read it!
Christmas is coming friends and Forgive Me, Alex would be a great gift for someones Kindle this holiday season! Congrats, Mr. Diamond on writing a fun thriller that I would recommend to our readers here at All Things Writing.
Read
November 26, 2012I just read Forgive Me, Alex by Lane Diamond, and against all odds, I was totally hooked. This novel is classed as a literary thriller. While I love lit fic, I tend to hate thrillers… well, thrillers in the film format. I don’t care how hyped a movie is, I just cannot get into a formulaic plot where you know the good guy will win at the last minute. No, high budget explosions and death-defying stunts don’t keep me from noticing a paper thin plot. Sorry!
So imagine my surprise when I found myself glued to Forgive Me, Alex. I couldn’t turn those e-ink pages fast enough. I had to know if the devil would be brought to justice, if Diana would be okay, if my suspicion about the latest rash of killings was dead on (love me an obvious pun).
Well, this seeming dichotomy proves what I’ve known all along: that books are just a million times better than movies. Is this novel formulaic? Ahh, heck no! Would I have been able to get into Forgive Me, Alex on the silver screen? Sadly, I may never have given it the chance. I’m grateful that I broke away from my comfort zone and discovered an awesome new book—even though it gave me horrible nightmares.
The nightmares, okay. Despite the fact that I just had a schmancy new security system installed, which guards all my doors and windows and gives me a nice panic button right next to my bed, I was utterly convinced someone was trying to break into my house the night after I started reading Forgive Me, Alex (and found myself about halfway through). I woke to every little sound and at several points had to double-check to make sure my limbs were safely tucked beneath my comforter. Because we all know such precautions keep us safe from monsters under the bed and serial killers lurking outside the door.
Luckily, I survived to write this review and can now whole-heartedly recommend this exciting novel to all of you lovely people. It’s rare for me to have such a visceral reaction to a book, and it’s even rarer for me to cry. In fact, I’ve only ever cried while reading two books—A Prayer for Owen Meany and Marley & Me. Now I have a hat trick, because I cried for dear sweet Alex.
I could rehash a blow-by-blow of the plot or delve into the compelling characterization, laud the unique story-telling format, or gush about how I just couldn’t put it down, but I trust you’ll take my eager recommendation and soon discover all this for yourself. I hope you enjoyed my first ever stream-of-consciousness review (inspired by my good friend at Naimeless).
Note: Since Lane Diamond is a Novel Publicity client, I can't ethically assign a star-rating to this review. Hopefully, the text will speak for itself!
So imagine my surprise when I found myself glued to Forgive Me, Alex. I couldn’t turn those e-ink pages fast enough. I had to know if the devil would be brought to justice, if Diana would be okay, if my suspicion about the latest rash of killings was dead on (love me an obvious pun).
Well, this seeming dichotomy proves what I’ve known all along: that books are just a million times better than movies. Is this novel formulaic? Ahh, heck no! Would I have been able to get into Forgive Me, Alex on the silver screen? Sadly, I may never have given it the chance. I’m grateful that I broke away from my comfort zone and discovered an awesome new book—even though it gave me horrible nightmares.
The nightmares, okay. Despite the fact that I just had a schmancy new security system installed, which guards all my doors and windows and gives me a nice panic button right next to my bed, I was utterly convinced someone was trying to break into my house the night after I started reading Forgive Me, Alex (and found myself about halfway through). I woke to every little sound and at several points had to double-check to make sure my limbs were safely tucked beneath my comforter. Because we all know such precautions keep us safe from monsters under the bed and serial killers lurking outside the door.
Luckily, I survived to write this review and can now whole-heartedly recommend this exciting novel to all of you lovely people. It’s rare for me to have such a visceral reaction to a book, and it’s even rarer for me to cry. In fact, I’ve only ever cried while reading two books—A Prayer for Owen Meany and Marley & Me. Now I have a hat trick, because I cried for dear sweet Alex.
I could rehash a blow-by-blow of the plot or delve into the compelling characterization, laud the unique story-telling format, or gush about how I just couldn’t put it down, but I trust you’ll take my eager recommendation and soon discover all this for yourself. I hope you enjoyed my first ever stream-of-consciousness review (inspired by my good friend at Naimeless).
Note: Since Lane Diamond is a Novel Publicity client, I can't ethically assign a star-rating to this review. Hopefully, the text will speak for itself!
July 6, 2012
Okay, so I'm now of fan of Lane Diamond's. I read 3 of his short stories before I read this book, so I had high expectations. I wasn't disappointed.
Based on some of his stories, Diamond likes to get inside the head of his characters. He's a mind meddler, and he's good at it.
His characters just snap, and feel real. This story had some familiar elements, but his handling of the characters makes it a great read. I don't want to spoil anything, but based on the ending, I'm really looking forward to his next book.
Based on some of his stories, Diamond likes to get inside the head of his characters. He's a mind meddler, and he's good at it.
His characters just snap, and feel real. This story had some familiar elements, but his handling of the characters makes it a great read. I don't want to spoil anything, but based on the ending, I'm really looking forward to his next book.
July 15, 2012
Sometimes, when a book tour comes along, and I'm not really sure whether or not I'll enjoy the book, I decide to sign up anyway.
I'm still waiting for the day that I don't enjoy a book from a Novel Publicity tour. It hasn't happened yet, and I hope everyone is beginning to realize just what a great service they can offer for authors.
Forgive me, Alex - a psychological thriller was pretty jarring and spectacular. It plays at the heart-strings of anyone who has ever encountered 'the devil' - or just that guy who has done something so reprehensibly evil and wrong but never been punished for it. Though in my situation, some of them were punished in accurately, and some not at all, and some were even known commonly for all their wrong doings.
"I long to charge across the street to destroy him - no remorse."
Well, So do I. So. Do. I.
I've never done it though, and so, this book led me on a journey that ultimately reminded me why I don't do it. On the other hand, there were tons of reasons I found and justifications, at least in part for why he did.
Tony becomes as endearing as Dexter Morgan - in that I want to hate you, but you're human too kind of way. While the MAN (Mitchell Andrew Norton) became, for me anyway, the hated individual who even though they too have had a traumatic past you hate anyway.
*if you actually follow some of those links, like for instance the MAN one - it may take you somewhere surprising. Or predictable, but I've never been known for predictability.
Hypothetically, if two people had the same past experiences, and for the purposes of this experiment, the same DNA. So yeah, I guess they'd have to be identical twins. Anyway, if they had the same experiences and yet chose different paths - one becoming a sadistic murderer, the other a vigilante murderer - is one more enduring simply because of our culture and perceived values?
Having taken a LOT of psychology courses means that the information I draw on is sometimes different. If that hypothetical situation actually happened, it would all basically be conjecture as to why one is perceived as less evil than the other.
There just aren't enough (or maybe any) real life examples to have studies. Plus, we'd be studying the past which is historical, but can't speak to the emotions someone experienced at the time. There are also any number of other reasons, like the ethical implications of studying or even observing humans for a life time. Psychological research is interesting, and there are some really amusing neuroscientific studies going on, but I still don't think that chemical reactions explain everything.
On the other hand - if we're talking in a universal/Stephen Hawking/Star trek/physical way - chemical reactions do explain everything. That, or as humans we just come up with plausible reasons for things to have happened after the fact. Which may or may not mean that humans have to follow those same rules.
Riker - meet Riker?
I once questioned physics and elemental laws in a conversation. "How DO you know that chemical elements act the same on Mars? How DO you know that there actually IS evil vs. good? How DO you know that the laws of physics are fundamentally the same everywhere?"
This book, made me question everything about human nature. It's not only a psychological thriller, it's a bleak look into the human condition and why or how we make the choices we do. If you're looking for a thriller, and don't want to delve deeply into the psyche of the characters and or human nature, this book can still be enjoyable. I don't think that you'll get to the end of the book without delving though, and that's not a bad thing at all.
It also brought me a step closer to completing the paradox loop of life - in a crazy star trek meets Manitoba kind of way.
At the end of the book I decided that regardless of whether people can or are fundamentally good or evil, we can as readers and as people identify with them all.
Life is a fucking paradox and to quote a great author.
Fuckaduck.
This 'hunter of monsters' is one you will surely enjoy!
Excerpt available at: Goodreads
Now, for about the author and the giveaway.
About the author: I write fiction, long and short. My writings cross over many genres and focus on diverse subjects, ranging from the mysteries of the human mind, with its fragile psychological and emotional states, to the everyday joy and anguish of life on Earth. Ultimately, characters move me – as both a reader and an author. It's all about the people. When not writing, I'm Publisher and Executive Editor at Evolved Publishing.
Connect with me on: website, Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or via Evolved Publishing.
Get Forgive Me, Alex on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, A Rafflecopter giveaway
For those of you who are local and perhaps a bit cynical about online contests and whether or not they're 'real' I can personally say that I've won on some of Novel Publicity's Rafflecopter give aways.
Also, Last month I won $100 dollars for my review of Statue of Ku (Link below). That prize was for most creative and thorough review and chosen by a pannel of 3. My book reading days and reviews are far from over! (Also, yay new tablet :P).
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The quality of forgiveness that burns up all things (teachingsofmasters.wordpress.com)
Is Forgiveness Futile? (stephencherry.wordpress.com)
Forgiveness: When and Why do We Forgive (psychologytoday.com)
Review of Moa ~ Open your Mind (naimeless.wordpress.com)
Review of Statue of Ku (naimeless.wordpress.com)
August 10, 2012
This review was originally posted on my blog on 10th July 2012, here
[WARNING: This book contains explicit and violent scenes that are not for the young or squeamish.]
criminal acts
This book was simply outstanding. I haven’t read a crime novel that really grabbed my attention in a long time and so when I got hooked on this book from the very first page, I knew I was starting the journey of something very special. I loved the way the story was portrayed and the story itself. I was continuously enthralled throughout and found it incredibly difficult to put the book down and continue on with my life because I needed to know what was going to happen next. It is a book that I would pass along in a heart beat but one that I would be unwilling to provide my own copy for.
always a list of suspects
Can I just say that I loved every single character in this story? I know I shouldn’t. I know that there is always supposed to be characters that I can’t stand or don’t want to read more of but that just wasn’t the case with this novel. There were times when Diana would get on my nerves but I still loved her and I know that she had a lot to deal with so it was all understandable. And that, I think, is why the characters in this story were all brilliant. They were all so realistic. Everything they felt and everything they did was so believable and it was obvious that Lane not only understands human emotions extremely well, he also did some extreme research alongside this work. I can only give him props.
I adored Tony. I loved his strength, his protection, his love and his kindness. I loved his stubborn will and his sense of justice. He was an all around character because even though you loved him and admired him, he was also a bad character. He was being unjust and there was a moral struggle within. How could it be okay to like somebody like that? I so loved Frank. He was such a great figure in the story and I really wanted to know more about him and felt so much of his emotions and pain throughout the book that I didn’t know what to do with myself a lot of the time. He was wise, stunning and amazing and I loved him.
the mystery unravels
The unique style of this novel really caught my attention and I have to admit that it helped to make the book more enjoyable. It jumped from the “then” to the “now”, from character to character and while this could have made it choppy and hard to follow, it really just didn’t happen like that. Everything was clearly labelled and fell into such a specific pattern with particular plot points unravelling at the right moments that it just worked. Oftentimes I found myself urging some parts to move on faster so I could go back to where the story had left off previously but then I would end up sucked into that part of the story and almost forget where I was. It was just such a brilliant writing style and it really worked for this novel.
I loved that this novel didn’t skim over the horrid details. I’m not personally into gore when it’s in films or on television but can deal with it in books, for some reason, and it really packed a punch in this novel. No details were left out or made “lighter” for the reader and that helped to make it feel more realistic and believable. I also really enjoyed that Lane let you see things from all the different POVs. It was so enlightening and interesting and just made the story that much more appealing for me. It’s definitely not something that happens often because it’s so hard to pull off. Needless to say, I believe that Lane pulled it off brilliantly.
The cliff-hangers in this novel were really what kept me going, however. Lane really had a knack for cutting you off from the “then” or the “now” just after he hits you with a piece of information that you did not see coming. So while your mouth is still gaping you have to pull yourself to a different time period and start all over again and I really felt this brought the novel to life. There was never a dull moment and you can just see how everything is so important. Every detail was there for a specific reason, even if it didn’t feel like it at the time. This style really helped to make the end of the novel especially epic. I was so stunned and I just felt so… foolish. I should have known but Lane does such a great diverting tactic that you’re just left feeling amazed at the brilliance of this novel. (Or perhaps that’s just me?)
all loose ends tie together
In summary, this book was an emotional, tense, powerful, brilliant roller-coaster that I will happily go on again, and again, and again. It was simply inspiring and clever and just really succeeded in being a great piece of entertainment. This however is not YA. It is Adult Fiction and should not be picked up lightly. I would recommend this book to crime fiction lovers in a heartbeat or to anyone who wants to read a book that really packs a punch, and leaves you thinking about human psychology and emotion. A truly amazing read that I am incredibly glad I had the opportunity to read.
[WARNING: This book contains explicit and violent scenes that are not for the young or squeamish.]
criminal acts
This book was simply outstanding. I haven’t read a crime novel that really grabbed my attention in a long time and so when I got hooked on this book from the very first page, I knew I was starting the journey of something very special. I loved the way the story was portrayed and the story itself. I was continuously enthralled throughout and found it incredibly difficult to put the book down and continue on with my life because I needed to know what was going to happen next. It is a book that I would pass along in a heart beat but one that I would be unwilling to provide my own copy for.
always a list of suspects
Can I just say that I loved every single character in this story? I know I shouldn’t. I know that there is always supposed to be characters that I can’t stand or don’t want to read more of but that just wasn’t the case with this novel. There were times when Diana would get on my nerves but I still loved her and I know that she had a lot to deal with so it was all understandable. And that, I think, is why the characters in this story were all brilliant. They were all so realistic. Everything they felt and everything they did was so believable and it was obvious that Lane not only understands human emotions extremely well, he also did some extreme research alongside this work. I can only give him props.
I adored Tony. I loved his strength, his protection, his love and his kindness. I loved his stubborn will and his sense of justice. He was an all around character because even though you loved him and admired him, he was also a bad character. He was being unjust and there was a moral struggle within. How could it be okay to like somebody like that? I so loved Frank. He was such a great figure in the story and I really wanted to know more about him and felt so much of his emotions and pain throughout the book that I didn’t know what to do with myself a lot of the time. He was wise, stunning and amazing and I loved him.
the mystery unravels
The unique style of this novel really caught my attention and I have to admit that it helped to make the book more enjoyable. It jumped from the “then” to the “now”, from character to character and while this could have made it choppy and hard to follow, it really just didn’t happen like that. Everything was clearly labelled and fell into such a specific pattern with particular plot points unravelling at the right moments that it just worked. Oftentimes I found myself urging some parts to move on faster so I could go back to where the story had left off previously but then I would end up sucked into that part of the story and almost forget where I was. It was just such a brilliant writing style and it really worked for this novel.
I loved that this novel didn’t skim over the horrid details. I’m not personally into gore when it’s in films or on television but can deal with it in books, for some reason, and it really packed a punch in this novel. No details were left out or made “lighter” for the reader and that helped to make it feel more realistic and believable. I also really enjoyed that Lane let you see things from all the different POVs. It was so enlightening and interesting and just made the story that much more appealing for me. It’s definitely not something that happens often because it’s so hard to pull off. Needless to say, I believe that Lane pulled it off brilliantly.
The cliff-hangers in this novel were really what kept me going, however. Lane really had a knack for cutting you off from the “then” or the “now” just after he hits you with a piece of information that you did not see coming. So while your mouth is still gaping you have to pull yourself to a different time period and start all over again and I really felt this brought the novel to life. There was never a dull moment and you can just see how everything is so important. Every detail was there for a specific reason, even if it didn’t feel like it at the time. This style really helped to make the end of the novel especially epic. I was so stunned and I just felt so… foolish. I should have known but Lane does such a great diverting tactic that you’re just left feeling amazed at the brilliance of this novel. (Or perhaps that’s just me?)
all loose ends tie together
In summary, this book was an emotional, tense, powerful, brilliant roller-coaster that I will happily go on again, and again, and again. It was simply inspiring and clever and just really succeeded in being a great piece of entertainment. This however is not YA. It is Adult Fiction and should not be picked up lightly. I would recommend this book to crime fiction lovers in a heartbeat or to anyone who wants to read a book that really packs a punch, and leaves you thinking about human psychology and emotion. A truly amazing read that I am incredibly glad I had the opportunity to read.
July 3, 2012
“I mean, shit, any knucklehead can be a writer, right?” muses one of the characters in Lane Diamond’s nail-biter of a story, Forgive Me, Alex. And, yes, any knucklehead can. But it takes a very special kind of knucklehead to put together a story the way Diamond has. Forgive Me, Alex did something that a book has not done since Kristy and the Snobs (The Baby-sitters Club #11), where Kristy’s family dog Louie had to be put to sleep: It made me cry. Damn you, Lane Diamond. Damn you to hell.
Forgive Me, Alex is classified as a psychological suspense thriller, and suspense should really be bolded and italicized. There is a certain level of mastery a writer must possess in order to effectively build this kind of breathless expectation in a reader, and Diamond does just that, not only by switching us back and forth between 1978 (when the events that set everything in motion took place) and 1995 (the subsequent aftermath after the serial killer is released), but also by switching up narrative perspectives between our hero and antagonist. Although I was originally afraid all this moving about might harm the linearity of the tale, my fears were unfounded: The story developed and evolved brilliantly, and kept me turning the pages wanting more. More. More.
Diamond does in Forgive Me, Alex what I wish more contemporary authors would do: He brings me right into the story, forcing me to identify with the characters. I didn’t have a choice–I would feel Tony Hooper’s wrath and need for revenge, I would wallow in Mitchell Norton’s desperate inability to ward off his demons. I would cheer for Diana Gregorio’s unbelievable ballsiness in the face of seemingly unbeatable odds. I would weep, shedding actual tears, for Alex Hooper’s childhood.
Forgive Me, Alex scared the living bejeesus out of me. I live in a small, sleepy town á la Algonquin, Illinois. It’s a big deal if someone gets a new riding lawnmower. Could a Mitchell Norton be just around the corner (sorry, neighbors)? I have a daughter. She’s trusting, wonderful, sweet–a little Alex Hooper. I projected onto this story in a way that astonished even me (mostly because I’m a jaded author type who reads with one eyebrow raised at all times). But even those living in sprawling metropolises without any children will identify with this story, because the way Tony Hooper reacts to the events of his life (and–poor Tony–he gets more than his fair share of awfulness) is incredibly relatable. Who, when faced with the destruction of life as he knows it, wouldn’t long to mete out the justice he had so cruelly been denied? We all would. We might not have the cojones to go through with it, but we can certainly cheer Tony’s decision to become the world’s vigilante.
Probably the best part of Forgive Me, Alex is that you think you know how it will all go–you think you know how everything will end. But you don’t. All the signs point to one thing, and it’s most decidedly another. It’s half Red Dragon and half Flowers for Algernon–and any mix like that is bound to throw you a curveball or twelve. Even the last two chapters (which I could have done without, simply because I felt they took away from what was otherwise a very, very strong ending) kept right on making you do a double-take at the page.
A word of warning: When the author placed the disclaimer that this tale is not for children at the front of the book, he’s not kidding. There are certain parts that are incredibly disturbing, and certain acts are described that are meant only for mature audiences. Know that when Diamond says he will take you on a trek into the mind of a serial killer, he means it–warts and all. Forgive Me, Alex presents the truth of its story in excruciating detail, and it may present images that take a while to fade from your mind’s eye.
As for my "absolute must" requirements in any book: I had no problem following the story. Although it jumped back and forth in time, the linearity within each time period was flawless, and the action was so well-developed that I had no problem keeping everything in mind and building upon it as I read. The editing was great, and the formatting was nearly perfect. Forgive Me, Alex was a fantastic read, both in scope and execution.
Kudos, Lane Diamond. My teary, frightened self salutes you. Job well done.
Forgive Me, Alex is classified as a psychological suspense thriller, and suspense should really be bolded and italicized. There is a certain level of mastery a writer must possess in order to effectively build this kind of breathless expectation in a reader, and Diamond does just that, not only by switching us back and forth between 1978 (when the events that set everything in motion took place) and 1995 (the subsequent aftermath after the serial killer is released), but also by switching up narrative perspectives between our hero and antagonist. Although I was originally afraid all this moving about might harm the linearity of the tale, my fears were unfounded: The story developed and evolved brilliantly, and kept me turning the pages wanting more. More. More.
Diamond does in Forgive Me, Alex what I wish more contemporary authors would do: He brings me right into the story, forcing me to identify with the characters. I didn’t have a choice–I would feel Tony Hooper’s wrath and need for revenge, I would wallow in Mitchell Norton’s desperate inability to ward off his demons. I would cheer for Diana Gregorio’s unbelievable ballsiness in the face of seemingly unbeatable odds. I would weep, shedding actual tears, for Alex Hooper’s childhood.
Forgive Me, Alex scared the living bejeesus out of me. I live in a small, sleepy town á la Algonquin, Illinois. It’s a big deal if someone gets a new riding lawnmower. Could a Mitchell Norton be just around the corner (sorry, neighbors)? I have a daughter. She’s trusting, wonderful, sweet–a little Alex Hooper. I projected onto this story in a way that astonished even me (mostly because I’m a jaded author type who reads with one eyebrow raised at all times). But even those living in sprawling metropolises without any children will identify with this story, because the way Tony Hooper reacts to the events of his life (and–poor Tony–he gets more than his fair share of awfulness) is incredibly relatable. Who, when faced with the destruction of life as he knows it, wouldn’t long to mete out the justice he had so cruelly been denied? We all would. We might not have the cojones to go through with it, but we can certainly cheer Tony’s decision to become the world’s vigilante.
Probably the best part of Forgive Me, Alex is that you think you know how it will all go–you think you know how everything will end. But you don’t. All the signs point to one thing, and it’s most decidedly another. It’s half Red Dragon and half Flowers for Algernon–and any mix like that is bound to throw you a curveball or twelve. Even the last two chapters (which I could have done without, simply because I felt they took away from what was otherwise a very, very strong ending) kept right on making you do a double-take at the page.
A word of warning: When the author placed the disclaimer that this tale is not for children at the front of the book, he’s not kidding. There are certain parts that are incredibly disturbing, and certain acts are described that are meant only for mature audiences. Know that when Diamond says he will take you on a trek into the mind of a serial killer, he means it–warts and all. Forgive Me, Alex presents the truth of its story in excruciating detail, and it may present images that take a while to fade from your mind’s eye.
As for my "absolute must" requirements in any book: I had no problem following the story. Although it jumped back and forth in time, the linearity within each time period was flawless, and the action was so well-developed that I had no problem keeping everything in mind and building upon it as I read. The editing was great, and the formatting was nearly perfect. Forgive Me, Alex was a fantastic read, both in scope and execution.
Kudos, Lane Diamond. My teary, frightened self salutes you. Job well done.
June 20, 2019
Forgive Me, Alex is a fascinating psychological read! It kind of feels like the story behind an episode of Criminal Minds, which I absolutely love, by the way. Dr. Spencer Reid is a god. Sorry, I digress. This book offers a peek into the mind of a serial killer and into the mind of a man whose life was changed due to the killer's actions. The story is told through two main perspectives--that of Mitchell Norton, the serial killer, and Tony Hooper, the man who lost so much because of Norton. The novel also goes back and forth between the present and the past. Each chapter is preceded by a date and the name of the character so you'd know what you're reading about. And even though you shift from one narrator to another and from present to past and back, you don't get lost because there's still a semblance of order in the way the "shifts" are made. I think it's a cool way of telling the story.
This book also reminds me of that movie Frailty with Bill Paxton and Matthew McConaughey. In that movie, Bill Paxton plays a father whose "visions" led him to kill people who were "demons" as revealed by his visions. Similarly, in Forgive Me, Alex, Norton the serial killer has a voice in his head telling him to torture random people. In the minds of these killers, they're not crazy and they don't believe what they're doing is wrong. It's crazy to think about what goes on in the head of a serial killer and this book shows us one possibility of what makes a serial murderer do what he does. This book also emphasizes another known fact--that most serial killers appear to be very normal people. Scary!
When I first read the blurb I thought there was some kind of split personality thing going on. I was thinking ahead and wondering if maybe the "devil" and the "hero" are one and the same. I'm telling you right now none of the characters have dissociative identity disorder a.k.a multiple personality disorder (oh hello there, my psych degree, you're useful today!) and the "devil" and "hero" are two entirely different individuals, but they have certain similarities that may have been the reason why the idea of multiple personalities crossed my mind. Either that or I watch too many police or detective and forensic shows (happen to be my favorite stuff to watch, tsk).
I know, I'm kind of rambling a bit. There's just too much fascinating psychological stuff in this book that appeal to me--the psychology of a killer, the psychology of a victim, the psychology of a victim's family. All very very interesting. There's also a good helping of emotions in this book, mostly on the part of Tony, so it's not just one whole clinical or psychological ride.
I'm not sure how I feel about the twists, although they're good enough to surprise the reader. Most of the events in the book are something you can already guess from how the story is going and the twists are at least something the reader will not really think about until right at that point of their revelation. When I read the last chapter, I thought about an alternate twist that would have made things much more terrible and heartbreaking, especially for Tony. I don't know why I thought that. I love-hate crushing endings. If you've read the book, let me know if the same idea crossed your mind. Hah.
Things I like about this book: I actually like the alternating perspectives and shift from past and present. I think this style is much better than doing a whole lot of flashbacks. I also like that this book wasn't too graphic or gory. I mean, the serial killer character did sick and terrible things, but the descriptions weren't too much for me. Just enough.
Things I don't like about this book: There aren't too many things I don't like. Maybe the final twist. I don't know. Gah.
I recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers and to those who are fascinated with serial killer stories. If you love Dr. Reid, I mean, Criminal Minds, you might love this book, too.
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
This book also reminds me of that movie Frailty with Bill Paxton and Matthew McConaughey. In that movie, Bill Paxton plays a father whose "visions" led him to kill people who were "demons" as revealed by his visions. Similarly, in Forgive Me, Alex, Norton the serial killer has a voice in his head telling him to torture random people. In the minds of these killers, they're not crazy and they don't believe what they're doing is wrong. It's crazy to think about what goes on in the head of a serial killer and this book shows us one possibility of what makes a serial murderer do what he does. This book also emphasizes another known fact--that most serial killers appear to be very normal people. Scary!
When I first read the blurb I thought there was some kind of split personality thing going on. I was thinking ahead and wondering if maybe the "devil" and the "hero" are one and the same. I'm telling you right now none of the characters have dissociative identity disorder a.k.a multiple personality disorder (oh hello there, my psych degree, you're useful today!) and the "devil" and "hero" are two entirely different individuals, but they have certain similarities that may have been the reason why the idea of multiple personalities crossed my mind. Either that or I watch too many police or detective and forensic shows (happen to be my favorite stuff to watch, tsk).
I know, I'm kind of rambling a bit. There's just too much fascinating psychological stuff in this book that appeal to me--the psychology of a killer, the psychology of a victim, the psychology of a victim's family. All very very interesting. There's also a good helping of emotions in this book, mostly on the part of Tony, so it's not just one whole clinical or psychological ride.
I'm not sure how I feel about the twists, although they're good enough to surprise the reader. Most of the events in the book are something you can already guess from how the story is going and the twists are at least something the reader will not really think about until right at that point of their revelation. When I read the last chapter, I thought about an alternate twist that would have made things much more terrible and heartbreaking, especially for Tony. I don't know why I thought that. I love-hate crushing endings. If you've read the book, let me know if the same idea crossed your mind. Hah.
Things I like about this book: I actually like the alternating perspectives and shift from past and present. I think this style is much better than doing a whole lot of flashbacks. I also like that this book wasn't too graphic or gory. I mean, the serial killer character did sick and terrible things, but the descriptions weren't too much for me. Just enough.
Things I don't like about this book: There aren't too many things I don't like. Maybe the final twist. I don't know. Gah.
I recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers and to those who are fascinated with serial killer stories. If you love Dr. Reid, I mean, Criminal Minds, you might love this book, too.
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
July 13, 2012
Forgive Me, Alex was a slightly different take on a suspense/thriller than what I am use to in a good way. Mr. Diamond uses alternating points-of-view and alternating time frames to tell the story and while doing this really builds up the suspense in both time periods. I found the story horrifying and fascinating the way a great suspense thriller should be.
Told from the points-of-view of the protagonist Tony and the antagonist Mitchell Norton is a very interesting way to frame the story. Tony is the ultimate good guy who's had hard luck in his life, but he's in love, he's taking care of his brother and life seems to be good. Mitchell is just a twenty-something not really going anywhere but not really hurting anything when the demons start to strike. I felt sympathetic to Mitchell to a degree until things started getting out-of-control, then I just felt like he was evil. I was cheering for Tony during the book even with his brand of vigilante justice. I felt like the characters were very relatable for a suspense book. A lot of times times this genre doesn't concentrate on character development, but I felt like I got to know Tony, Frank, the Chief and Linda very well. I really liked Frank and I really liked the other people that supported Tony in his life, the Chief and his Master at the dojo, these were all wonderful examples of the community at work.
I think the thing I loved best about Forgive Me, Alex was the alternating time frames. Mr. Diamond tells the story going back and forth between 1978 when the initial murders take place and 1995 when Mitchell Norton is released from prison. The suspense really builds between both time frames even though the reader knows the ultimate outcome of 1978. The reader still doesn't know how the outcome happens and I found the story building up to that fascinating. Then the story in 1995 starts up as well and has a great suspense line of it's own as well as letting the reader catch up with the main characters (and a few new ones) seventeen years later. I loved this. It was never confusing as I thought it might be when I glanced at the table of contents and saw how it went back and forth between the characters and the years. Each character had his own voice in the writing and each time frame was easy to figure out so even if you didn't pay attention to the chapter headers it was easy to figure out when the action was taking place and who was doing the thinking/talking. The plot was very well-written and had me hooked from the first page. And I don't think this was an easy thing to do with the alternating time period and alternating characters.
Forgive Me, Alex is an excellent suspense/thriller. If you don't mind your suspense a little more on the grisly side (description of the crimes) then you will be okay with this. I did cringe a few times, but I was fully warned of the content of the book. It's not over the top and I have read much more graphic books, so don't let my word of warning scare you. It's about like a James Patterson type book in terms of descriptive crimes. But the great thing about Forgive Me, Alex is it has completely relatable characters is Tony, Frank and Linda. They felt real and their feelings were heartfelt. I wanted more of them in the end, so that outweighed the grisly aspect to me. There is much more to this book than the crimes. Forgive Me, Alex has an excellent plot, terrific characters and an ending that will stick with me for some time.
Told from the points-of-view of the protagonist Tony and the antagonist Mitchell Norton is a very interesting way to frame the story. Tony is the ultimate good guy who's had hard luck in his life, but he's in love, he's taking care of his brother and life seems to be good. Mitchell is just a twenty-something not really going anywhere but not really hurting anything when the demons start to strike. I felt sympathetic to Mitchell to a degree until things started getting out-of-control, then I just felt like he was evil. I was cheering for Tony during the book even with his brand of vigilante justice. I felt like the characters were very relatable for a suspense book. A lot of times times this genre doesn't concentrate on character development, but I felt like I got to know Tony, Frank, the Chief and Linda very well. I really liked Frank and I really liked the other people that supported Tony in his life, the Chief and his Master at the dojo, these were all wonderful examples of the community at work.
I think the thing I loved best about Forgive Me, Alex was the alternating time frames. Mr. Diamond tells the story going back and forth between 1978 when the initial murders take place and 1995 when Mitchell Norton is released from prison. The suspense really builds between both time frames even though the reader knows the ultimate outcome of 1978. The reader still doesn't know how the outcome happens and I found the story building up to that fascinating. Then the story in 1995 starts up as well and has a great suspense line of it's own as well as letting the reader catch up with the main characters (and a few new ones) seventeen years later. I loved this. It was never confusing as I thought it might be when I glanced at the table of contents and saw how it went back and forth between the characters and the years. Each character had his own voice in the writing and each time frame was easy to figure out so even if you didn't pay attention to the chapter headers it was easy to figure out when the action was taking place and who was doing the thinking/talking. The plot was very well-written and had me hooked from the first page. And I don't think this was an easy thing to do with the alternating time period and alternating characters.
Forgive Me, Alex is an excellent suspense/thriller. If you don't mind your suspense a little more on the grisly side (description of the crimes) then you will be okay with this. I did cringe a few times, but I was fully warned of the content of the book. It's not over the top and I have read much more graphic books, so don't let my word of warning scare you. It's about like a James Patterson type book in terms of descriptive crimes. But the great thing about Forgive Me, Alex is it has completely relatable characters is Tony, Frank and Linda. They felt real and their feelings were heartfelt. I wanted more of them in the end, so that outweighed the grisly aspect to me. There is much more to this book than the crimes. Forgive Me, Alex has an excellent plot, terrific characters and an ending that will stick with me for some time.
July 6, 2012
As someone with a minor ninja fetish, I must admit that when Lane Diamond's Forgive Me, Alex introduced the character of Ben Komura, I was excited to learn more. Though Komura's first physical appearance is delayed until after the midway point in the novel, his presence provides a unique twist to the traditional serial killer story. After all, it's not every day that you combat your enemy with the wisdom of the samurai and the blades of the ninja.
Komura has taken Tony on as his special student, teaching him aikido, jujitsu, karate and ninjutsu, as well as sword skills, history and more beyond the typical karate class world of belt acquisition and board-breaking. Komura's family tree can be traced back to the samurai, and although he is thoroughly American, he was also raised within Japanese traditions by parents who insisted on respect for their history and culture.
In training with Master Komura, Tony has even learned how to walk silently like a ninja, so Komura insists he ring the chimes in his dojo when he is ready to learn--part of a game that is meant to let Tony know when he has finally defeated his master in stealth.
Of course, Komura is always one step ahead: he's installed security cameras and monitors the visuals as well as any motion in the dojo below his living quarters.
Just as he is one step ahead of Tony physically, he is also able to display his mental dexterity when Tony asks him for help with his quest to destroy serial killer Mitchell Norton. Norton has recently been released from a psychiatric prison after 17 years, and suspiciously similar murders in the small town of Algonquin, Illinois have begun again. Tony insists it is Norton, whom he refers to as "the devil"; Norton has already killed Tony's little brother, Alex, and attempted to take the life of his girlfriend, Diana, as well.
Komura isn't convinced. He wisely inquires, "Is it justice you desire or is it vengeance?" His pupil makes no reply. He continues in this line of reasoning, asking "Are you certain it is him, Shadow? Do you have no doubts?" Tony insists he is 95 percent certain, and Komura pounces on this information. He expresses the opinion that Norton has corrupted Tony's mind, that he must find a way to know, not merely believe or feel that he understands the truth, before making his move. A true samurai does not take the lives of innocent people, after all.
Though Komura originally helps Tony rescue Diana, providing him the basic ninja weaponry and attire he needs for the mission, he does not allow this past connection to cloud his mind in pondering what he would do in Tony's position. Komura is detached from the outcome, as he is not directly involved, and can therefore properly advise his ninja-in-training. Along with Frank Willow, Tony's neighbor who functions as an adopted grandfather and mentor, he provides wise counsel and sound judgement--but when push comes to shove, he also provides the necessary tools and equipment to fight off the devil himself, allowing Tony to make his own decisions.
Smarts and skills and the way of the samurai? That's one very crush-worthy combination.
(Originally posted at Black Heart Magazine)
Komura has taken Tony on as his special student, teaching him aikido, jujitsu, karate and ninjutsu, as well as sword skills, history and more beyond the typical karate class world of belt acquisition and board-breaking. Komura's family tree can be traced back to the samurai, and although he is thoroughly American, he was also raised within Japanese traditions by parents who insisted on respect for their history and culture.
In training with Master Komura, Tony has even learned how to walk silently like a ninja, so Komura insists he ring the chimes in his dojo when he is ready to learn--part of a game that is meant to let Tony know when he has finally defeated his master in stealth.
Of course, Komura is always one step ahead: he's installed security cameras and monitors the visuals as well as any motion in the dojo below his living quarters.
Just as he is one step ahead of Tony physically, he is also able to display his mental dexterity when Tony asks him for help with his quest to destroy serial killer Mitchell Norton. Norton has recently been released from a psychiatric prison after 17 years, and suspiciously similar murders in the small town of Algonquin, Illinois have begun again. Tony insists it is Norton, whom he refers to as "the devil"; Norton has already killed Tony's little brother, Alex, and attempted to take the life of his girlfriend, Diana, as well.
Komura isn't convinced. He wisely inquires, "Is it justice you desire or is it vengeance?" His pupil makes no reply. He continues in this line of reasoning, asking "Are you certain it is him, Shadow? Do you have no doubts?" Tony insists he is 95 percent certain, and Komura pounces on this information. He expresses the opinion that Norton has corrupted Tony's mind, that he must find a way to know, not merely believe or feel that he understands the truth, before making his move. A true samurai does not take the lives of innocent people, after all.
Though Komura originally helps Tony rescue Diana, providing him the basic ninja weaponry and attire he needs for the mission, he does not allow this past connection to cloud his mind in pondering what he would do in Tony's position. Komura is detached from the outcome, as he is not directly involved, and can therefore properly advise his ninja-in-training. Along with Frank Willow, Tony's neighbor who functions as an adopted grandfather and mentor, he provides wise counsel and sound judgement--but when push comes to shove, he also provides the necessary tools and equipment to fight off the devil himself, allowing Tony to make his own decisions.
Smarts and skills and the way of the samurai? That's one very crush-worthy combination.
(Originally posted at Black Heart Magazine)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2012
The devil made Mitchell Norton a serial killer.
Forgive Me, Alex is the story of the serial killer Mitchell Norton and Tony Hooper, the man whose life he ruined, and who has since become something of an expert at making serial killers go away. Split between 1995, when Mitchell is released from prison, and 1978, the summer of Norton's reign of terror, this novel follows the events that made Norton into a killer and Hooper's desperate race to stop him ... twice.
Readers of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will find much to like about Lane Diamond's debut novel. Exquisitely written, with earnest, irresistable characters and an intriguing dual narrative, this is one thriller well worth the time. Rest assured, as many have already commented, this novel has quite a few challenging scenes--be prepared for blood, and lots of it--but they add to the tension that ripples throughout the book. I, like others here, had a hard time putting the book down each night, and so compelling was the story that I found myself dreaming about it. I couldn't help but feel what was at stake, even when I wasn't reading.
The book was particularly effective in its slow burn. The time shifts between 1978 and 1995 provided interesting perspectives, and in no way diminished the mystery of how things were going to turn out.
Also effective was the small-town setting, Algonquin, Illinois. At first, I found myself wondering how Lane was going to make a story about a serial killer work in a small town, but the closeness of the people and the narrow confines in which Norton had to work served only to highten the sense of danger that pervades the book.
My only real beef with the story are the two main female characters. I found myself wanting to know about them and about their abilities, particularly the FBI agent Linda Monroe. Neither was given much opportunity for fleshing out. Instead, they became the romantic motivation of Tony Hooper's pysche--not really characters, but ideals toward which Hooper could strive.
Forgive Me, Alex is a compelling start, and the promised follow-up, The Devil's Bane, said to be available in late 2012, should easily build on Alex's foundations. I'll be particuarly interested to learn more about Tony Hooper's other serial-killer-killing activities, more about Linda Monroe, and pull back veil on Hooper's secret agent ally, Frank Willow.
Forgive Me, Alex is the story of the serial killer Mitchell Norton and Tony Hooper, the man whose life he ruined, and who has since become something of an expert at making serial killers go away. Split between 1995, when Mitchell is released from prison, and 1978, the summer of Norton's reign of terror, this novel follows the events that made Norton into a killer and Hooper's desperate race to stop him ... twice.
Readers of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will find much to like about Lane Diamond's debut novel. Exquisitely written, with earnest, irresistable characters and an intriguing dual narrative, this is one thriller well worth the time. Rest assured, as many have already commented, this novel has quite a few challenging scenes--be prepared for blood, and lots of it--but they add to the tension that ripples throughout the book. I, like others here, had a hard time putting the book down each night, and so compelling was the story that I found myself dreaming about it. I couldn't help but feel what was at stake, even when I wasn't reading.
The book was particularly effective in its slow burn. The time shifts between 1978 and 1995 provided interesting perspectives, and in no way diminished the mystery of how things were going to turn out.
Also effective was the small-town setting, Algonquin, Illinois. At first, I found myself wondering how Lane was going to make a story about a serial killer work in a small town, but the closeness of the people and the narrow confines in which Norton had to work served only to highten the sense of danger that pervades the book.
My only real beef with the story are the two main female characters. I found myself wanting to know about them and about their abilities, particularly the FBI agent Linda Monroe. Neither was given much opportunity for fleshing out. Instead, they became the romantic motivation of Tony Hooper's pysche--not really characters, but ideals toward which Hooper could strive.
Forgive Me, Alex is a compelling start, and the promised follow-up, The Devil's Bane, said to be available in late 2012, should easily build on Alex's foundations. I'll be particuarly interested to learn more about Tony Hooper's other serial-killer-killing activities, more about Linda Monroe, and pull back veil on Hooper's secret agent ally, Frank Willow.
June 29, 2012
Look out for the review - 16th July at shahwharton.com :)
Lane Diamond did a great job with this enthralling psychological thriller. I enjoyed the story and felt I knew the characters, joining them every step of the way – and when one of those characters is a sadistic serial killer with a penchant for torture, that can be pretty, ghoulish. Fabulous! I couldn't put it down and still think of ti now, weeks after I finished reading it. That's a rarity.
Total opposites, Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton become staunch enemies as piece by piece, their entangled lives become clear. Both have their own demons and are become determined to blight one another’s lives.
Mitchell Norton set in motion such agonies in lives throughout his small, quiet community, beginning, though never ending, with Tony Hooper. There is a real tension, movement toward decline and renewal, a need to ease the everlasting rage and purge the constant guilt, all of which seeped into me from every page.
Using a dual narrative and flipping between two periods of time, we look into the abyss, the eerie and torrential blackness of the sadist, the torturer, the deeply evil human, ruled by his own ego and a voice in his head he believes to be the Reaper himself. At the same time, we see into the heart of simple boy, grown into a men in search of vengeance for untold agonies. A look into what darkness can do to the soul and how it manipulates the good, yet never totally shatters it.
Lane allows us to go on a search for and an examination of, humanity. He brings along a whole host of darkness to throw us of the scent, but we do get there and it’s so worth it.
Highly recommended.
Lane Diamond did a great job with this enthralling psychological thriller. I enjoyed the story and felt I knew the characters, joining them every step of the way – and when one of those characters is a sadistic serial killer with a penchant for torture, that can be pretty, ghoulish. Fabulous! I couldn't put it down and still think of ti now, weeks after I finished reading it. That's a rarity.
Total opposites, Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton become staunch enemies as piece by piece, their entangled lives become clear. Both have their own demons and are become determined to blight one another’s lives.
Mitchell Norton set in motion such agonies in lives throughout his small, quiet community, beginning, though never ending, with Tony Hooper. There is a real tension, movement toward decline and renewal, a need to ease the everlasting rage and purge the constant guilt, all of which seeped into me from every page.
Using a dual narrative and flipping between two periods of time, we look into the abyss, the eerie and torrential blackness of the sadist, the torturer, the deeply evil human, ruled by his own ego and a voice in his head he believes to be the Reaper himself. At the same time, we see into the heart of simple boy, grown into a men in search of vengeance for untold agonies. A look into what darkness can do to the soul and how it manipulates the good, yet never totally shatters it.
Lane allows us to go on a search for and an examination of, humanity. He brings along a whole host of darkness to throw us of the scent, but we do get there and it’s so worth it.
Highly recommended.
July 6, 2012
Psychological thrillers are my kind of books! Not only do I write them, but truly enjoy reading one that makes my skin crawl, my nerves skitter with fear and my heart thump a tad louder. This incredible novel by Lane Diamond handed me ALL of that, in spades!
The story is told in bursts from the main two characters, switching deftly between 1978 and 1995. The long road and deep ties between the hero and the villain are interwoven with intricate detail. The sickening forces that bound these two together for life kept me glued to the pages and the way the author links the life of the hero, Tony, to the demented stalker/killer Mitchell, was fascinating.
My heart ached for Tony and I could instantly bond with his character as he was transformed, through no fault of his own, into someone he never dreamed he would be. The atrocities that he suffered in his early life lead him on a path of revenge, not only for his brother Alex, but for his damaged psyche as well. Although we aren't provided too deep of a glimpse inside the home life that created the killer, Mitchell, we are guided just enough through his world to understand that he is a sick, twisted soul, almost as if he was born that way rather than made that way.
The ending is a perfect way to ease the reader down from the intense, page-gripping high that the author just yanked them through, leaving the option wide open for a sequel. Out of all the books I have read this year, this one just launched itself to #1 for me!
The story is told in bursts from the main two characters, switching deftly between 1978 and 1995. The long road and deep ties between the hero and the villain are interwoven with intricate detail. The sickening forces that bound these two together for life kept me glued to the pages and the way the author links the life of the hero, Tony, to the demented stalker/killer Mitchell, was fascinating.
My heart ached for Tony and I could instantly bond with his character as he was transformed, through no fault of his own, into someone he never dreamed he would be. The atrocities that he suffered in his early life lead him on a path of revenge, not only for his brother Alex, but for his damaged psyche as well. Although we aren't provided too deep of a glimpse inside the home life that created the killer, Mitchell, we are guided just enough through his world to understand that he is a sick, twisted soul, almost as if he was born that way rather than made that way.
The ending is a perfect way to ease the reader down from the intense, page-gripping high that the author just yanked them through, leaving the option wide open for a sequel. Out of all the books I have read this year, this one just launched itself to #1 for me!
July 6, 2012
Forgive Me, Alex is a psychological suspense thriller to say the least, told in the voices of Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton and relives the atrocities of a time in 1978 and then in the present of 1995. Tony Hooper is an average guy, soon to graduate high school, has a girlfriend that he wants to marry and spend the rest of his life with. Just prior to him graduating, his little brother, his shadow, Alex turns up missing. Alex is eventually found murdered and Tony blames himself. Back to 1995 Mitchell Norton, a convicted serial killer, is released from prison and that is when the story really takes off...not to spoil the story for you, I will just say that this book grabbed me right from the first page. I love suspense thrillers and when an author can pull the reader right into the story where you do not want to put the book down, that is for me a great read. There are characters that you love to love and those you love to hate. An emotional roller coaster of a ride right up to the last page. Then it keeps you wanting more and that is good because there will be another book soon, The Devil's Bane, a sequel to Forgive Me, Alex. I highly recommend this book!!!
April 1, 2012
Forgive Me, Alex switches between several perspectives, mainly Tony Hooper and Mitchell Norton during the original killing spree of 1978 and ‘now’ (1995), which could be potentially confusing, but is highlighted nicely by the chapter titles and change in the tone of the POV. I also found that the insight we have from 1995 adds to the suspense - we know some details, revealed sparingly along the way, and this results in a tale that (in parts) puts me in mind of watching an impending car crash.
So why should you read this? Firstly, if you’re a fan of Dexter I think you might find something you like… This novel comprises a unique mix of the insane ramblings of a madman as he edges towards the serial killer he will become; the suspense of not knowing who is going to die and how painfully; several twists that you can try to predict but will often come up short; and a lead in Tony Hooper who will not idly sit by and let this murderer kill again. Tell me, how many other books could give you that?
*Full review at indieebooks.wordpress.com
So why should you read this? Firstly, if you’re a fan of Dexter I think you might find something you like… This novel comprises a unique mix of the insane ramblings of a madman as he edges towards the serial killer he will become; the suspense of not knowing who is going to die and how painfully; several twists that you can try to predict but will often come up short; and a lead in Tony Hooper who will not idly sit by and let this murderer kill again. Tell me, how many other books could give you that?
*Full review at indieebooks.wordpress.com
July 19, 2012
This book kept me riveted! It is told through the eyes of both Tony Hooper and MItchell Norton. It starts in 1995 as Mitchell is being released from prison and goes back and forth from that time frame to 1978, when all the tragedy occurs.
I loved the way that the author draws you in to the story right away, and then slowly dishes you out the details. You know the outcome, because Mitchell was in prison for 17 years - but you don't know everything that happens in 1978 and those are the details that you are spoon-fed through out the rest of the book.
At the same time you struggle along with Tony as he wades through his memories as well as what he has become because of Mitchell. Along with Linda, the FBI agent who cut her teeth on the Norton case, and has crossed paths with Tony over the years, you hope that he is able to overcome the wall he has put up to keep people from getting too close.
I thought this was a great thriller and am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Read more: http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.c...
I loved the way that the author draws you in to the story right away, and then slowly dishes you out the details. You know the outcome, because Mitchell was in prison for 17 years - but you don't know everything that happens in 1978 and those are the details that you are spoon-fed through out the rest of the book.
At the same time you struggle along with Tony as he wades through his memories as well as what he has become because of Mitchell. Along with Linda, the FBI agent who cut her teeth on the Norton case, and has crossed paths with Tony over the years, you hope that he is able to overcome the wall he has put up to keep people from getting too close.
I thought this was a great thriller and am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Read more: http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.c...
July 4, 2012
if you aren't into the whole POV of a serial killer genre this book may not be for you, BUT if you are I suggest going to Amazon or somewhere and getting this book.
So the story is split into two different time periods, one set in 1978 when Norton is having his trial done and then the other is in 1995 when he's released. This is my favorite kind of format because you can guess what's about to happen next but then it completely surprises you when you find out in the flash forward that it didn't happen. I hate it when this isn't done well, but Diamond does this flawlessly! It's really awesome.
I also like that it's centered around the killer himself and not focused on the whodunnit part which, no offense to the people who write and read that kind of stuff, bothers me to no end. I do enjoy it sometimes but when the murder mystery genre is flooded with it I don't like it. I like killer POV.
I don't want to spoil the awesomeness so go get it! It's a really awesome fast paced read, well I thought it was but if you want to savor it go for it!
So the story is split into two different time periods, one set in 1978 when Norton is having his trial done and then the other is in 1995 when he's released. This is my favorite kind of format because you can guess what's about to happen next but then it completely surprises you when you find out in the flash forward that it didn't happen. I hate it when this isn't done well, but Diamond does this flawlessly! It's really awesome.
I also like that it's centered around the killer himself and not focused on the whodunnit part which, no offense to the people who write and read that kind of stuff, bothers me to no end. I do enjoy it sometimes but when the murder mystery genre is flooded with it I don't like it. I like killer POV.
I don't want to spoil the awesomeness so go get it! It's a really awesome fast paced read, well I thought it was but if you want to savor it go for it!
August 22, 2012
This is a psychological thriller book. This book is comparable to the TV show “Criminal Minds”. If you like that show, you’ll love this book and it will be a quick, tail-spinning read for you!
This book takes you into the mind of a serial killer. I find that fascinating, I know probably sick, but true. Not because I would EVER be one, but the total opposite. The author writes in great detail in explaining the mind of a serial killer.
The book is in perspective of two different minds, the serial killer and one of the peoples lives he has destroyed because of his actions. It goes back and forth from 1978 to 1995, but very smoothly and is easy to read. You won’t want to stop reading this one! Plus there is a sequel coming out I can’t wait to read! This author is great!
This book takes you into the mind of a serial killer. I find that fascinating, I know probably sick, but true. Not because I would EVER be one, but the total opposite. The author writes in great detail in explaining the mind of a serial killer.
The book is in perspective of two different minds, the serial killer and one of the peoples lives he has destroyed because of his actions. It goes back and forth from 1978 to 1995, but very smoothly and is easy to read. You won’t want to stop reading this one! Plus there is a sequel coming out I can’t wait to read! This author is great!
December 20, 2012
Lane pens "Forgive Me, Alex" in a very well thought out plot where the characters are believable and well described. A gruesome, serial killer, psychological suspense thriller that is very hard to put down until your finished, a total roller coaster ride with all the twists and turns.A fantastic book and highly recommend it for all psychological suspense thriller, serial killer type novel fans, but please note this book is for adult audiences only.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
December 7, 2012
this book sucked me in from the first page! at first, i thought the format of jumping back and forth between different years would bother me but it all made sense! while a thriller, there were definitely parts that tugged at my heart strings. overall, i loved this book and can't wait for the sequel!!
February 4, 2012
A tuat thriller that ingeniously tells the story in two different times.
April 7, 2012
Very good novel!
April 16, 2012
a very creepy book but interesting.
July 5, 2012
Review coming soon!
July 22, 2012
I LOVED this book, and you can find out why here:
http://ogcmat.blogspot.com/2012/07/fo...
http://ogcmat.blogspot.com/2012/07/fo...
August 21, 2012
Interesting book - clearly written. Appreciated the author's approach and how each chapter let you know the lens through which you were reading. Chilling tale.
July 24, 2012
Forgive Me, Alex is a deeply emotional spellbinding psychological thriller. The story is delivered through the eyes of Tony Hooper whose life was forever altered by the exploits of Mitchell Norton a serial killer released from a psychiatric hospital after 17 years. The story goes back and forth from 1978 to 1995 when Norton is released and reveals in horrific detail the events that contribute to the culmination of the story. Tony watches from afar as Norton gains his freedom and has justice in the form of revenge on his mind. When eerily similar murders are discovered in his town of Algonquin after Norton’s release, Tony is even more determined to put a stop to the madness.
This story affords us a look into the mind of a serial killer and the tremendous strength of writing in this book makes that a terrifying experience. The writing is exceptional in that it propelled me into the story and into the minds of the main characters as well as keeping me totally fixated on the story. The suspense and tension is this story is very palpable and I found myself thinking about this story long after I had finished.
The main characters of Tony and Mitchell are painted with such fine precision and depth I could almost feel their presence while reading. The character of Frank Willow the adopted Grandfather of Tony and Alex is a richly defined character who contributes a great deal of emotion and compassion to the story. The other characters in this story are all unique and well defined and successfully contribute to the sentiment, understanding and underlying current of the story.
The small town setting of Algonquin, Illinois which is the backdrop for this story lends a great deal to the emotion and reality as you get a glimpse into small town America and the bonds that are forged with people who grew up and lived in these towns. It also brings to the forefront the horror and sorrow that result from the actions of one deranged individual upon a town full of people. This is also the story of what happens to families and friendships and the feeling of well-being that existed prior to such devastating realities.
Lane Diamond has succeeded in bringing to the surface the dark and horrifying mind of a psychotic serial killer while at the same time bringing forth the desperate need for humanity and justice for the victims and their families.
I highly recommend this for its powerful and gripping story line. You will be held in a spell that will keep you wanting more and find yourself totally drawn in.
This story affords us a look into the mind of a serial killer and the tremendous strength of writing in this book makes that a terrifying experience. The writing is exceptional in that it propelled me into the story and into the minds of the main characters as well as keeping me totally fixated on the story. The suspense and tension is this story is very palpable and I found myself thinking about this story long after I had finished.
The main characters of Tony and Mitchell are painted with such fine precision and depth I could almost feel their presence while reading. The character of Frank Willow the adopted Grandfather of Tony and Alex is a richly defined character who contributes a great deal of emotion and compassion to the story. The other characters in this story are all unique and well defined and successfully contribute to the sentiment, understanding and underlying current of the story.
The small town setting of Algonquin, Illinois which is the backdrop for this story lends a great deal to the emotion and reality as you get a glimpse into small town America and the bonds that are forged with people who grew up and lived in these towns. It also brings to the forefront the horror and sorrow that result from the actions of one deranged individual upon a town full of people. This is also the story of what happens to families and friendships and the feeling of well-being that existed prior to such devastating realities.
Lane Diamond has succeeded in bringing to the surface the dark and horrifying mind of a psychotic serial killer while at the same time bringing forth the desperate need for humanity and justice for the victims and their families.
I highly recommend this for its powerful and gripping story line. You will be held in a spell that will keep you wanting more and find yourself totally drawn in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews