Review: Raw & Shocking
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 26, 2012
First I would like to start my review by commenting of some of the previous reviews -One reviewer said, "Wonderfully drawn characters and a beautiful story" - NOT!The author did give you a complete picture of each of the characters but "wonderfully drawn" would not be the terms I would use to explain them.  Nothing about the description of Chet the Psycho is "wonderfully drawn".  Sara and Dogan have found each other in the most unimaginable places for a love story, but not "wonderfully drawn" - their descriptions and backgrounds are graphic were well done by the author.  Michael is a mess and not "wonderfully drawn" - to me Michael is a confused mixture to the overall picture of the novel - from the quiet trout fisherman to the alcoholic.  Jimmy & Frankie are described in understandable detail but are not "wonderfully drawn" - a fantastic picture of two aging gangsters realizing there is more to life."A beautiful story" - I feel that is a statement that shouldn't be anywhere near this story as there is no beauty in such viciousness, even though the author leaves no doubt in what is happening throughout the story - it's not beautiful.Fun Read - NOT!  If someone thinks this is a fun read they have a different concept of fun then I do.  Again, I'm not saying the story didn't keep me interested, it was not a fun read.More than just "Blood & Coffee" - YES!  Rosanne's review made the most sense to me and pointing out these things doesn't take away from how skillful the author has written his story.A Satisfyingly deep Novel - Not!  I can't imagine anyone thinking this story was satisfying - Maintaining your interest throughout the story is more meaningful to me.Now for my quick summary - JD Mader captures the essence of evil, gave the reader a glimpse of how it must feel to be tied to a chair for an extended period of time and how a mind can protect you under stress, was able to picture how a police officer could discover how inadequate he really was, brings a love story into being in such an odd situation and circumstance, gives a great explanation of aged gangsters, and finally builds an entire story around a beginning - in your face - vicious crime.Again, I can't tell you to enjoy this book but I can tell you to enjoy the skills the author has shown to put it all together.