'Disordered Minds' by Minette Walters is a mystery novel that follows the story of an academic and an amateur criminologist teaming up to debunk a ruling of murder from 30 years ago. As they delve into the past, they uncover a series of events that lead to misery for many and force them to confront their own issues, ultimately forging an unlikely friendship. The plot unfolds through email exchanges, police reports, and newspaper articles, revealing a twisty narrative that explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the impact of past experiences on individuals' lives.

The writing style in 'Disordered Minds' is described as both ponderous and meandering, with some readers finding it engaging and thought-provoking, while others felt it fell flat and failed to create suspense. is noted for its unique approach of incorporating emails, newspaper clippings, and police reports as storytelling devices, offering a different perspective on the unfolding mystery. Despite mixed opinions on the plot and character development, the book is praised for its exploration of complex themes and the unexpected twists that keep readers engaged till the end.

Characters:

The central characters form an unlikely partnership, though supporting characters are viewed as underdeveloped and not entirely realistic.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style blends various formats and perspectives, though it has been critiqued for being complex and at times lacking clarity.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot navigates through a wrongful conviction case intertwined with a more recent disappearance, using various narratives to build suspense.

Setting:

Set in a small English town, the narrative covers both historical and contemporary contexts, highlighting societal issues.

Pacing:

The pacing of the narrative varies, with some parts engaging while others feel excessively drawn out.

IT WASN’T MUCH of a park, barely half an acre of wilted grass off Colliton Way where local people walked their dogs in the mornings and evenings. During the day it was hardly frequented at all, except...

Notes:

The novel is set in 2002 and involves a case from 1970.

Howard Stamp was convicted of murdering his grandmother and later died by suicide in prison.

The story is narrated through various formats like emails, letters, and police reports.

Characters in the book include a psychologist named Jonathan Hughes and an elderly councilor named George Gardener.

The main plot revolves around uncovering the truth behind Howard Stamp's conviction and a separate case of a missing girl.

Frustration with the book's pacing and narrative style led to mixed reviews from readers.

Themes explored include mental illness, coercion in confessions, and social prejudices.

The relationship between George and Jonathan develops from a rocky start to a deep friendship.

The ending leaves some questions unresolved, which displeased certain readers.

The book touches on real-life issues such as miscarriages of justice and the impact of societal attitudes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains sensitive content related to sexual assault, mental health issues, and themes surrounding wrongful convictions and deaths.

From The Publisher:

When a local councillor and an anthropologist re-investigate the controversial murder conviction of a mentally retarded 20-year-old, they're unprepared for the disturbing facts that come to light--and the personal demons with which they must come to terms.

Ratings (1)

Loved It (1)

Reader Stats (3):

Read It (1)
Not Interested (2)

What can you read after
Disordered Minds?

See the list (78 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Disordered Minds

Minette Walters