'By Reason of Insanity' by Shane Stevens is a gripping crime novel that delves into the mind of a mass killer named Thomas Bishop. The book intricately weaves together the narratives of both the killer and those hunting him, creating a compelling and engrossing plot that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Stevens' writing style is described as excellent, with vivid descriptions that make the story come alive, even in its most gruesome and terrifying moments.

The book takes readers on a chilling journey through the disturbed mind of the killer, exploring themes of violence, horror, and the dark depths of human nature. Through complex characters and a suspenseful plot, 'By Reason of Insanity' immerses readers in a world of fear and suspense, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page is turned.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities; the killer elicits both sympathy and horror.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is graphic and intense, pulling readers into the disturbing world of the characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative focuses on a mass killer and a journalist's obsessive quest for justice, delving deeply into the killer's disturbed mind.

Setting:

Set in various American locales, the story reflects a chaotic urban landscape haunted by violence.

Pacing:

The pacing can fluctuate, with some parts feeling slow due to character complexity but overall remains engaging.

Notes:

The book is centered around a mass killer named Thomas Bishop.

It follows the story of a young reporter, Adam Kenton, who is determined to find Bishop.

The narrative dives deep into the mind of a mass murderer, exploring his hatred of women.

Readers noted the book's graphic violence and sexual content.

The novel is celebrated for its captivating writing and complex characters.

It was published over thirty years ago and is still compared to modern horror stories.

The perspective alternates between the killer and those trying to stop him, adding depth to the narrative.

Stephen King has praised this book, which contributes to its cult classic status.

Readers reported feeling terrified and disturbed by the story, with some saying it gave them nightmares.

The book is seen as a pioneer in the psychological thriller genre.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Includes graphic violence, sexual content, and themes of mental illness.

From The Publisher:

Stevens takes readers on a harrowing descent into the mind of a mass murderer in this eerily realistic serial-killer novel.

At the center of this gripping epic novel of mass murder, pursuit, and psychological terror is Thomas Bishop, a psychotic young killer who believes he is the son of Caryl Chessman, who was executed for rape in California amid intense controversy. Subjected to unmerciful physical and mental torture from an early age, Bishop kills his mother at the age of ten and is placed in an institution for the criminally insane. He grows to manhood knowing the outside world only through a television screen. At twenty-five, he succeeds in a brilliant escape and change of identity and begins to move across the country, murdering women in particularly gruesome ways. Pursued by reporters, police, and the mob, Bishop manages to elude them all, and the search for him becomes the greatest manhunt in US history.The chilling denouement will hold readers spellbound until the shattering, unforgettable conclusion.

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Reader Stats (9):

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Want To Read (5)
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About the Author:

Shane Stevens is the bestselling author of Go Down Dead, Way Uptown in Another World, Dead City, Rat Pack, and The Anvil Chorus.

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By Reason of Insanity

Shane Stevens