Book Review Summary: Finishing Touches

Introduction

"Finishing Touches" is a gripping and unsettling novel by Thomas Tessier. Set in London, the story follows Dr. Tom Sutherland, a young American medical student who takes a six-month break from his studies to explore the city. During his stay, he befriends Dr. Roger Nordhagen, a successful cosmetic surgeon, and his seductive assistant, Lina. As Tom becomes more enthralled by Lina, he finds himself drawn into a dark and dangerous world of forbidden pleasures and hidden secrets.

About Thomas Tessier

Thomas Tessier is an acclaimed author known for his horror and suspense novels, plays, poems, and short stories. His novel "Fog Heart" received the International Horror Guild's Award for Best Novel and was a Bram Stoker Award finalist. Tessier's writing style is characterized by its cold and precise tone, creating a sense of unease and tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Analysis of Views

1. Brutal and Unusual: Many readers found "Finishing Touches" to be a brutal and unusual book, exploring themes of violence and sexuality in a way that pushes the boundaries of conventional horror. The novel's unflinching portrayal of these themes adds to its overall impact and makes it stand out from other horror novels.

2. Well-Written and Chilling: The novel's writing style was praised for its precision and ability to create a chilling atmosphere. Readers appreciated the author's skill in implying rather than describing, making the story all the more effective in conveying its horror.

3. Disturbing and Creepy: Several readers described "Finishing Touches" as disturbing and creepy, with a sense of unease that lingers long after reading. The story's exploration of dark desires, fantasies, and the human capacity for evil resonated with readers who enjoy horror that delves into the depths of human depravity.

4. Engaging Protagonist: Tom Sutherland, the protagonist of "Finishing Touches," was praised for his relatable characterization. Readers found him to be a complex and flawed individual who undergoes a transformation throughout the story. Tom's journey from an unsatisfied medical student to a willing participant in the dark world of Dr. Nordhagen captivated readers and added depth to the narrative.

5. Atmospheric Setting: The setting of London played a significant role in enhancing the overall atmosphere of the novel. Readers appreciated the author's ability to create a sense of place and immerse them in the city's seedy underbelly. The descriptions of clubs, nightlife, and hidden corners added to the overall sense of unease and intrigue.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Unforgettable Horror: "Finishing Touches" is highly recommended for fans of well-written horror that delves into the darkest aspects of human nature. The novel's exploration of forbidden desires, moral ambiguity, and the human capacity for evil creates a chilling and unforgettable reading experience.

2. Compelling Protagonist: Tom Sutherland's character arc adds depth to the story and makes him an engaging protagonist. Readers appreciate his transformation from a naive medical student to someone who willingly embraces the darkness, making him a compelling character to follow throughout the narrative.

3. Atmospheric Setting: The atmospheric setting of London adds to the overall sense of unease and suspense in the novel. Readers enjoy being immersed in the city's seedy underworld, exploring its hidden corners and uncovering its dark secrets alongside Tom Sutherland.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Disturbing Content: Some readers found the novel's graphic depictions of violence and sexuality to be disturbing or triggering. The book's exploration of taboo subjects may not be suitable for those who prefer more mainstream horror or are sensitive to explicit content.

2. Lack of Resolution: A few readers felt that the ending of "Finishing Touches" lacked resolution or was anticlimactic compared to the build-up throughout the story. While many readers appreciated the ambiguity and open-endedness of the ending, some felt that it left them unsatisfied or wanting more closure.

Conclusion

"Finishing Touches" by Thomas Tessier is a gripping and unsettling horror novel that delves into forbidden desires, moral ambiguity, and the darkest aspects of human nature. With its well-written prose, engaging protagonist, and atmospheric setting, this book offers a compelling reading experience for fans of horror that delves into the depths of human depravity. However, its graphic depictions of violence and sexuality may not be suitable for all readers, and some may find the lack of resolution at the end disappointing. Overall, "Finishing Touches" is a highly recommended read for those seeking an unforgettable horror experience that lingers long after reading.