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Unhinged
Detective Decland Dupree arrives at the crime scene, where the recipient of his first childhood kiss lies in a pool of blood. Not fifteen minutes later, the body of a man is found next door. The most sadistic serial killer in New Orleans history is on the prowl. He selects both a man and a woman, raping and killing them on the same night. When another woman from Deck's past is found and identified, the young detective is flooded with questions. How does this maniac know Deck? Why is the FBI deputy director sabotaging his efforts to capture the killer?
And, most unsettling, who's next? As the Absinthe Killer continues to evade arrest, Deck is relieved of duty. But he's far from giving up-and, unfortunately for Deck, the FBI knows it.
And, most unsettling, who's next? As the Absinthe Killer continues to evade arrest, Deck is relieved of duty. But he's far from giving up-and, unfortunately for Deck, the FBI knows it.
315 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2011
8 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Findorff
10 books69 followersNew Orleans and all its dark weirdness laid the foundation for every story I've written since high school up to present day. I was born and raised in the Crescent City, but now live in Chicago. I graduated from the University of New Orleans and served six years in the Louisiana National Guard.
My mind easily delves into the twisted recesses, but I find to balance myself out, I watch a lot of comedies and love to make people laugh. I get into everything from witty British comedies to South Park and Family Guy. If you're easily offended... Sorry!
My mind easily delves into the twisted recesses, but I find to balance myself out, I watch a lot of comedies and love to make people laugh. I get into everything from witty British comedies to South Park and Family Guy. If you're easily offended... Sorry!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 15, 2012
If I didn't read the news regularly I would have found it hard to believe the sick minds and warped thinking described in this very disturbing thriller. I won't be relocating, to the book's setting of New Orleans, anytime soon. This isn't one for the tourist board.
To be honest, I didn't really take to any of the characters, even the ones I assume we are meant to like. Of course, I had weaved my own detail into the various players. As with most well written fright literature the worst visions come from our own imaginations as much as directly from the crafted words. Findorff manipulates our view, forcing us to pry the dark recesses of our own minds.
As I have said I don't much like the owner of the narrative voice, Decland. But to qualify that, I wanted him to win, if only in order to save the lives of the small army of his unfortunate ex-girlfriends. My opinion, almost to the last page, was that Decland was a murderer and his words where merely his attempt to lead us astray. I'm still not actually sure if he was or wasn't. I wonder if Findorff has left only me unsure.
Although, as stated, the writing is generally very good I was left with the feeling that a poor editor had ripped out some plot enhancing paragraphs of backstory, leaving some scenes a bit disjointed. This is probably more to do with personal taste than something most readers will agree with; however, I couldn't escape the feeling that good proof reading and less editing would have served the script better. Despite my particular misgivings this is still a really good read, a thriller with real menace.
The backdrop of a post Katrina New Orleans is clearly based on a good deal of real knowledge. The struggles of humanity in this then terribly damaged society and the things that the evil can get away with when systems fail come through loud and clear.
It seemed clear that the unhinged would win, in this disaster weakened city. There were more than a few unhinged minds, as well as unhinged doors on flood-damaged houses, and the creaking hinges of an overworked justice system. Then digging deeper we have the unhinged sexual relationships of the killer, and the capacity for terrible violence even sometimes from within the ranks of law enforcement.
I am not sure I will be up to reading more works of this type for a while. This is very disturbing book, which has all the ingredients for the plot of a very exciting movie.
To be honest, I didn't really take to any of the characters, even the ones I assume we are meant to like. Of course, I had weaved my own detail into the various players. As with most well written fright literature the worst visions come from our own imaginations as much as directly from the crafted words. Findorff manipulates our view, forcing us to pry the dark recesses of our own minds.
As I have said I don't much like the owner of the narrative voice, Decland. But to qualify that, I wanted him to win, if only in order to save the lives of the small army of his unfortunate ex-girlfriends. My opinion, almost to the last page, was that Decland was a murderer and his words where merely his attempt to lead us astray. I'm still not actually sure if he was or wasn't. I wonder if Findorff has left only me unsure.
Although, as stated, the writing is generally very good I was left with the feeling that a poor editor had ripped out some plot enhancing paragraphs of backstory, leaving some scenes a bit disjointed. This is probably more to do with personal taste than something most readers will agree with; however, I couldn't escape the feeling that good proof reading and less editing would have served the script better. Despite my particular misgivings this is still a really good read, a thriller with real menace.
The backdrop of a post Katrina New Orleans is clearly based on a good deal of real knowledge. The struggles of humanity in this then terribly damaged society and the things that the evil can get away with when systems fail come through loud and clear.
It seemed clear that the unhinged would win, in this disaster weakened city. There were more than a few unhinged minds, as well as unhinged doors on flood-damaged houses, and the creaking hinges of an overworked justice system. Then digging deeper we have the unhinged sexual relationships of the killer, and the capacity for terrible violence even sometimes from within the ranks of law enforcement.
I am not sure I will be up to reading more works of this type for a while. This is very disturbing book, which has all the ingredients for the plot of a very exciting movie.
February 15, 2013
Please note: I read and reviewed this book in December 2011 after being provided a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. I'm updating this review to add formatting and let folks know that the e-book version of the story is currently free on Amazon for your Kindle. Just follow the link!
My Synopsis: Decland Dupree has only been a detective for a short while when the bottom drops out of his world at a murder scene – he not only recognizes the victim, she was his first kiss. To make matters worse, they find another body across the street – both victims horribly mutilated. Dupree and his partner Ron Lacey set out to try to find the culprit, with an FBI profiler assisting. However, a few weeks later another double murder is committed – another victim that Dupree knows: his first girlfriend. It appears that whoever this killer is, he is killing every woman that Dupree has ever dated. Will Dupree’s fiancée end up on the line as well? And why is the Deputy Director of the FBI involving himself in the investigation – and why does he seem to be sabotaging it?
My Thoughts: This was a terrific thriller - I like reading police-procedural books like this, and found this to be a high-quality story with great character development and plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Findorff really seems to have done his research as far as police procedure and technique; he also has put together a smoothly plotted and intricate suspense novel that anyone who enjoys thriller/suspense/police procedurals should love. If you enjoy a well-plotted thriller with great character development and interesting problems to solve, you definitely need to check out Unhinged - it’s a winner!
My Synopsis: Decland Dupree has only been a detective for a short while when the bottom drops out of his world at a murder scene – he not only recognizes the victim, she was his first kiss. To make matters worse, they find another body across the street – both victims horribly mutilated. Dupree and his partner Ron Lacey set out to try to find the culprit, with an FBI profiler assisting. However, a few weeks later another double murder is committed – another victim that Dupree knows: his first girlfriend. It appears that whoever this killer is, he is killing every woman that Dupree has ever dated. Will Dupree’s fiancée end up on the line as well? And why is the Deputy Director of the FBI involving himself in the investigation – and why does he seem to be sabotaging it?
My Thoughts: This was a terrific thriller - I like reading police-procedural books like this, and found this to be a high-quality story with great character development and plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Findorff really seems to have done his research as far as police procedure and technique; he also has put together a smoothly plotted and intricate suspense novel that anyone who enjoys thriller/suspense/police procedurals should love. If you enjoy a well-plotted thriller with great character development and interesting problems to solve, you definitely need to check out Unhinged - it’s a winner!
September 22, 2011
This review does contain a few spoilers near the end I’ll indicate where:
Every now and again as you are reading books on your list you come across one that is pure excrement. One that leaves you with nothing more to be desired. You feel slightly depressed and nonplussed at having that time wasted. Then you move to the next and it completely takes you by storm. I had just come away from reading Claire Dewitt and the City of the Dead, a book that was brutal to trudge through……and it was an audio book and read to me!! I would probably not be among the living if I had to read it myself.
Moving on, after my close encounter with death, I began reading Unhinged by E.J. Findorff. What a breath of fresh air this was, I instantly ejected the magazine from my Ruger and removed the round from the chamber! I read this book in 3 sittings: right before bed, at lunch the next day, and then on the couch when I got home that night. It was very hard for me to stop reading as things unfolded at a rapid pace. This book was definitely more my style. Our main character, Decland Dupree, comes across crime scene after crime scene of past loves murdered at the hands of a maniac, a guy named “Spider”. Who oddly enough has his reasons, although I don’t find the crimes forgivable. This will give you a little taste of what a monster child abuse can create, although some people just grow up to be animals.
Very real! If given two words to describe this book those would be the pair. We live in a society that seems to have become a little jaded by horrific crimes like this. Not that we consider them acceptable, but because we now can fathom and believe that someone could commit such acts of violence. Decades ago, if these crimes would have been front runners on daily news bulletins, people would be saying, “I can’t believe someone could do such a thing.” Now that these types of occurrences are a common staple we catch ourselves thinking, “Well, there’s another serial killer out there.” Then we take a sip of coffee before turning the page and reading other carnage in the news, such as the stock market crashing. Strangely we are more worried about that sometimes! Why is this? Well, now we know that there are no boundaries for the evils of this world, and because of that we as a society are able to digest these atrocities better and just hope that the sucker is caught before the body count rises.
CAUTION SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD!
Speaking of real, the characters in this novel are not cookie cutters slapped between the covers of the book........errrrr........well, I mean I read it on a Kindle so there were not literal covers to deal with, but that analogy should be easy enough to follow. Anyway, E.J. did a very great job constructing his characters with realistic qualities. They are flawed, pretty much all of the major players are. Each flawed in different ways. Ron has changed from his shadier days of taking money on the side, but it rears it’s ugly head and causes him to take his retirement early. Dorrick is a prime example of being corrupted by political agendas. President Vorhees, a man who should know the difference between right and wrong, chooses to ignore those problems and hope they go away or stay hidden for just a while longer. Finally our main man Decland. Let me first start off by saying my enjoyment of a novel is based on being able to associate with that individual and see myself in their shoes. Decland makes a few silly choices along the way, but that’s human nature........to a degree. I found myself literally shaking my head as he cheats on his girlfriend, and not just girl friend. Ol’ Deck has even bought a ring and planned to propose. I wished he would have just cooled his jets with a little more alcohol rather than rush into the arms of another woman for a one night stand. I can understand his frustration in the heat of the moment, but there was no need for him to act so rash. In that situation I would have acted a little differently. The follow-up bad decision was for him to go ahead and propose to Jennifer, who he just cheated on, and decides to not disclose his transgression. Acting in tune with President Vorhees, he just hopes the indiscretion shrivels and dies and isn’t an issue any longer. However, it’s E.J.’s character and he can do with him as he wishes.
I have only one major complaint against Unhinged, I wish it could have been longer. It ends abruptly. There is a huge climax as the events are reaching their apex and BAM! It’s over! I think there should have defintely been an epilogue chapter for sure, the loose ends all being explained and tied up, but not tied up like Spider’s victims because that would just be rude! What happens with President Vorhees, do Jennifer and Decland decide to go through with things even though she knows he cheated on her, does Ron get reinstated, etc... I do believe the resolution of the President’s own bad choices in his past should have caught up with him in a more magnificent degree. Keep in mind, there were several deaths allowed to happen, and a murder to boot on his watch. His own little personal assassin was given a license to kill, and it got a little out of hand with Dorrick’s tactics. All in all, I would like to give this book 4.25 stars, yet Goodreads will not allow decimal ratings so it is halted at a 4. Great novel and I do look forward to future installments whether they are based on Decland Dupree or a completely different character.
Every now and again as you are reading books on your list you come across one that is pure excrement. One that leaves you with nothing more to be desired. You feel slightly depressed and nonplussed at having that time wasted. Then you move to the next and it completely takes you by storm. I had just come away from reading Claire Dewitt and the City of the Dead, a book that was brutal to trudge through……and it was an audio book and read to me!! I would probably not be among the living if I had to read it myself.
Moving on, after my close encounter with death, I began reading Unhinged by E.J. Findorff. What a breath of fresh air this was, I instantly ejected the magazine from my Ruger and removed the round from the chamber! I read this book in 3 sittings: right before bed, at lunch the next day, and then on the couch when I got home that night. It was very hard for me to stop reading as things unfolded at a rapid pace. This book was definitely more my style. Our main character, Decland Dupree, comes across crime scene after crime scene of past loves murdered at the hands of a maniac, a guy named “Spider”. Who oddly enough has his reasons, although I don’t find the crimes forgivable. This will give you a little taste of what a monster child abuse can create, although some people just grow up to be animals.
Very real! If given two words to describe this book those would be the pair. We live in a society that seems to have become a little jaded by horrific crimes like this. Not that we consider them acceptable, but because we now can fathom and believe that someone could commit such acts of violence. Decades ago, if these crimes would have been front runners on daily news bulletins, people would be saying, “I can’t believe someone could do such a thing.” Now that these types of occurrences are a common staple we catch ourselves thinking, “Well, there’s another serial killer out there.” Then we take a sip of coffee before turning the page and reading other carnage in the news, such as the stock market crashing. Strangely we are more worried about that sometimes! Why is this? Well, now we know that there are no boundaries for the evils of this world, and because of that we as a society are able to digest these atrocities better and just hope that the sucker is caught before the body count rises.
CAUTION SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD!
Speaking of real, the characters in this novel are not cookie cutters slapped between the covers of the book........errrrr........well, I mean I read it on a Kindle so there were not literal covers to deal with, but that analogy should be easy enough to follow. Anyway, E.J. did a very great job constructing his characters with realistic qualities. They are flawed, pretty much all of the major players are. Each flawed in different ways. Ron has changed from his shadier days of taking money on the side, but it rears it’s ugly head and causes him to take his retirement early. Dorrick is a prime example of being corrupted by political agendas. President Vorhees, a man who should know the difference between right and wrong, chooses to ignore those problems and hope they go away or stay hidden for just a while longer. Finally our main man Decland. Let me first start off by saying my enjoyment of a novel is based on being able to associate with that individual and see myself in their shoes. Decland makes a few silly choices along the way, but that’s human nature........to a degree. I found myself literally shaking my head as he cheats on his girlfriend, and not just girl friend. Ol’ Deck has even bought a ring and planned to propose. I wished he would have just cooled his jets with a little more alcohol rather than rush into the arms of another woman for a one night stand. I can understand his frustration in the heat of the moment, but there was no need for him to act so rash. In that situation I would have acted a little differently. The follow-up bad decision was for him to go ahead and propose to Jennifer, who he just cheated on, and decides to not disclose his transgression. Acting in tune with President Vorhees, he just hopes the indiscretion shrivels and dies and isn’t an issue any longer. However, it’s E.J.’s character and he can do with him as he wishes.
I have only one major complaint against Unhinged, I wish it could have been longer. It ends abruptly. There is a huge climax as the events are reaching their apex and BAM! It’s over! I think there should have defintely been an epilogue chapter for sure, the loose ends all being explained and tied up, but not tied up like Spider’s victims because that would just be rude! What happens with President Vorhees, do Jennifer and Decland decide to go through with things even though she knows he cheated on her, does Ron get reinstated, etc... I do believe the resolution of the President’s own bad choices in his past should have caught up with him in a more magnificent degree. Keep in mind, there were several deaths allowed to happen, and a murder to boot on his watch. His own little personal assassin was given a license to kill, and it got a little out of hand with Dorrick’s tactics. All in all, I would like to give this book 4.25 stars, yet Goodreads will not allow decimal ratings so it is halted at a 4. Great novel and I do look forward to future installments whether they are based on Decland Dupree or a completely different character.
February 22, 2013
Read my full review: http://bit.ly/XH38ix
My rating: 4.5 Stars
My opinion: I absolutely love the movies Tightrope staring Clint Eastwood and 8 mm starring Nicolas Cage. Unhinged struck me as a cross between the two. I have always had an affection for twisted books and seek them out when I need to satisfy my darker inner child. Normally, this affection is satisfied through my love of Nordic Noir books, as I find few American authors can go into the very dark and deep crevices of the mind where these thoughts hide. Mr. Findorff has found that spot and come out with a book so twisted, so scary that it leaves one holding their breath as to where the story line will take them. To boot, some of the scenes are so twisted with a killer so convoluted in his thinking that one looks around to make sure they are alone.
One other thing I loved about this book was the sarcasm of Detective Ron Lacey and those around him. Mr. Findorff really nailed the sarcasm that even with cringing at the savagery of the killer had me snickering at some of the comments made by the detective. Also, the imperfection of the characters. Again, totally politically incorrect, but still a hoot!
One thing that did drive me crazy regarding this book and the reason it will be dropped to 4 stars vs. raised to 5 stars is due to the formatting of the ebook. It looks like it can be how the author wrote the book and I found it very distracting at times. I don't know if that is present in the print version of this book, but it appeared just way too choppy for my likings!I was also able to see what other reviewers meant by leaving loose strings. I must admit that it didn't change my perception of the book that much.
WARNING: If you are easily offended by gratuitous violence, sex and language...THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR YOU!! If like me, you aren't bothered, jump in...the water is warm and tinged red!
My rating: 4.5 Stars
My opinion: I absolutely love the movies Tightrope staring Clint Eastwood and 8 mm starring Nicolas Cage. Unhinged struck me as a cross between the two. I have always had an affection for twisted books and seek them out when I need to satisfy my darker inner child. Normally, this affection is satisfied through my love of Nordic Noir books, as I find few American authors can go into the very dark and deep crevices of the mind where these thoughts hide. Mr. Findorff has found that spot and come out with a book so twisted, so scary that it leaves one holding their breath as to where the story line will take them. To boot, some of the scenes are so twisted with a killer so convoluted in his thinking that one looks around to make sure they are alone.
One other thing I loved about this book was the sarcasm of Detective Ron Lacey and those around him. Mr. Findorff really nailed the sarcasm that even with cringing at the savagery of the killer had me snickering at some of the comments made by the detective. Also, the imperfection of the characters. Again, totally politically incorrect, but still a hoot!
One thing that did drive me crazy regarding this book and the reason it will be dropped to 4 stars vs. raised to 5 stars is due to the formatting of the ebook. It looks like it can be how the author wrote the book and I found it very distracting at times. I don't know if that is present in the print version of this book, but it appeared just way too choppy for my likings!I was also able to see what other reviewers meant by leaving loose strings. I must admit that it didn't change my perception of the book that much.
WARNING: If you are easily offended by gratuitous violence, sex and language...THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR YOU!! If like me, you aren't bothered, jump in...the water is warm and tinged red!
February 22, 2013
4.5/5 stars
This book came as a surprise to me. I was scrolling through some threads featured in one of my groups, when I came across a new author- E.J Findorff, promoting his new book. The synposis sounded interesting enough, so I decided to give it a try. I was not expecting to be sucked into a page turning thriller.
Decland Dupree, a new dective and his partner Ron are assigned to a double homicide. The female victim turns out to be Dupree's first kiss. Soon, there's another double homicide. The female victim also turns out to be someone from Decland's past. An obsessive serial killer is on the loose, and he's killing to get back at Decland. Who is this mysterious serial killer? Why is he murdering girls from Dupree's past love lives? And what big secret is the FBI hiding?
The story is wonderfully written and it unravels at a perfect pace. You'll be kept well into the night- because this is one that is hard to put down. It's a story filled with secrets- life threatning secrets, and they're enough to send a chill down your spine. E.J Findorff has created a masterpiece, a thriller that is almost impossible not to love. The plot is twisted and jaw dropping. You'll cringe and check over your shoulder many times while in the process of devouring this book.
The main character, Decland, is not always "likeable" but you'll find yourself cheering him on in his rebellious actions and keeping your fingers crossed that in the end, his enemies ultimately fail. The characters in the story are flawed beyond belief, but that adds to the novel's authenticity. Overrall, each character developed well, and there was a variety of personalities, from badass to completely psycho.
E.J is clearly a gifted new writer, and his next novels are highly anticipated.
This book came as a surprise to me. I was scrolling through some threads featured in one of my groups, when I came across a new author- E.J Findorff, promoting his new book. The synposis sounded interesting enough, so I decided to give it a try. I was not expecting to be sucked into a page turning thriller.
Decland Dupree, a new dective and his partner Ron are assigned to a double homicide. The female victim turns out to be Dupree's first kiss. Soon, there's another double homicide. The female victim also turns out to be someone from Decland's past. An obsessive serial killer is on the loose, and he's killing to get back at Decland. Who is this mysterious serial killer? Why is he murdering girls from Dupree's past love lives? And what big secret is the FBI hiding?
The story is wonderfully written and it unravels at a perfect pace. You'll be kept well into the night- because this is one that is hard to put down. It's a story filled with secrets- life threatning secrets, and they're enough to send a chill down your spine. E.J Findorff has created a masterpiece, a thriller that is almost impossible not to love. The plot is twisted and jaw dropping. You'll cringe and check over your shoulder many times while in the process of devouring this book.
The main character, Decland, is not always "likeable" but you'll find yourself cheering him on in his rebellious actions and keeping your fingers crossed that in the end, his enemies ultimately fail. The characters in the story are flawed beyond belief, but that adds to the novel's authenticity. Overrall, each character developed well, and there was a variety of personalities, from badass to completely psycho.
E.J is clearly a gifted new writer, and his next novels are highly anticipated.
September 5, 2011
I'm so excited! E.J. Findorff has offered me a free copy of his book. All I have to do is read it (YAY) and post a review. I can't wait to read this book. Review to follow...
Detectives Decland Dupree and Ron Lacey draw the case of a sadistic homosexual serial killer. The killer is systematically working through Deck's former girlfriends as well as killing a random gay man each time. For unknown reasons FBI Deputy Director Dorrick enters the investigation and immediately starts interfering and bad-mouthing the two detectives. As the violence escalates, the manhunt is on for one of Deck's old buddies.
This book starts out very strong and sucked me right into the plot. I was on page 60 before I even realized it. I honestly had difficulty putting it down. The plot is complex and deftly crafted with twists and surprising turns that come fast and furious. The homosexual plot was surprising since there was not even a hint of it in the premise. I really liked Decland and him and Ron made a good team as they each had strengths that complemented the other. I didn't particularly like Ron as he was too abrupt, too rude and downright crude at times. I wasn't surprised when he got ejected from the team. I was more surprised that he lasted as long as he did with his attitude. When the FBI entered the picture, I had a feeling that it wasn't going to end well for Deck and Ron. Right from the beginning there just was something off with Dorrick.
All in all a great story line with a well executed plot and real characters.
Detectives Decland Dupree and Ron Lacey draw the case of a sadistic homosexual serial killer. The killer is systematically working through Deck's former girlfriends as well as killing a random gay man each time. For unknown reasons FBI Deputy Director Dorrick enters the investigation and immediately starts interfering and bad-mouthing the two detectives. As the violence escalates, the manhunt is on for one of Deck's old buddies.
This book starts out very strong and sucked me right into the plot. I was on page 60 before I even realized it. I honestly had difficulty putting it down. The plot is complex and deftly crafted with twists and surprising turns that come fast and furious. The homosexual plot was surprising since there was not even a hint of it in the premise. I really liked Decland and him and Ron made a good team as they each had strengths that complemented the other. I didn't particularly like Ron as he was too abrupt, too rude and downright crude at times. I wasn't surprised when he got ejected from the team. I was more surprised that he lasted as long as he did with his attitude. When the FBI entered the picture, I had a feeling that it wasn't going to end well for Deck and Ron. Right from the beginning there just was something off with Dorrick.
All in all a great story line with a well executed plot and real characters.
May 22, 2012
"New Orleans, full of history and voodoo, creepy post Katrina buildings still not rebuilt and still haunted by the destruction; the perfect place for a killer to strike. Again and again. He has a bloody message for one detective in particular. And he will mutilate and murder until Detective Decland Dupree gets it. Decland harbors an uneasy feeling about his promotion, troubled with the knowledge there was a shortage of men after the hurricane left the area decimated. With only one year's experience in the detective bureau is he qualified to handle such a heinous crime? When the killer starts targeting Dec's old girlfriends, he must gather the strength and courage to outwit a damaged and deranged predator. This book grabs you from page one and you will find that Author E.J. Findorff tightens the screws, ups the tension, and never lets you go. We learn the killer's name halfway through but do we really know who he is? Warning: don't read this at bedtime or you’re going to start hearing strange noises outside your darkened windows. I’m looking forward to the next book by this talented author." – Jody E. Lebel, author of Playing Dead.
July 26, 2011
Unhinged is a fast-paced read with a plot so twisted and fascinating that I couldn’t put the book down. It was like Silence of the Lambs unleashed on New Orleans. E.J. Findorff drew me into the life and culture of New Orleans, and although I have never been, I felt as if I had experienced the city first hand. From the start, I was pulled into the desperate plight of Detective Decland Dupree. A serial killer has brutally murdered the girl with whom he’d shared his first kiss, and as the story unfolds, the situation grows even more dire.
Unhinged is not for the faint of heart. In several scenes, the hair literally raised on the back of my neck. For those of you who like to be shocked and want to experience a true thriller, Unhinged is a must read.
Unhinged is not for the faint of heart. In several scenes, the hair literally raised on the back of my neck. For those of you who like to be shocked and want to experience a true thriller, Unhinged is a must read.
August 9, 2011
Unhinged is a fast-paced read with a plot so exciting that I couldn’t put the book down. I read it in two days. E.J. Findorff drew me into the life and culture of New Orleans post Katrina. I felt as if I had experienced the city first hand. From the start, I was pulled into this thrilling story. All of the characters are so real and believable. Unhinged is not for the faint of heart. Several scenes gave me the chills. For those of you who want to experience a true thriller, Unhinged is a must read.
November 4, 2023
This is a detective novel set in New Orleans which I brought about ten years ago and I picked up for a reading challenge. A serial killer who mutilates bodies strikes New Orleans, Deck is a new Detective and is apparently connected to the victims.
I didn't really like this book, I think the author's writing style is quite... simplistic? Tell don't show? I probably wouldn't have finished this book if not for the reading challenge and I didn't particularly care if the characters lived or died. I felt more sorry for the serial killer than I did the police characters. I also would have loved more focus on the setting of New Orleans, apart from a couple of mentions about the food or the heat, I didn't feel like we got as much as I wanted. The author also chose to reveal the identity of the killer at 40% into the book, which was a choice that I didn't think worked out terribly well, especially since the second half of the book was so different from the first half. And then it just ends! Yeah
That said, this author did characters very realistically. It felt like they were real people with real flaws who make real mistakes. Part of my issue with liking this book comes from this -- if I wanted to read about casually homophobic, corrupt police, I would go and read the news. (Especially when we're supposed to find one of those cops the 'mentor' character who does the right thing despite the rules). I did appreciate the ending where but other than that, there wasn't really anything to draw me to this book.
2 stars!
I didn't really like this book, I think the author's writing style is quite... simplistic? Tell don't show? I probably wouldn't have finished this book if not for the reading challenge and I didn't particularly care if the characters lived or died. I felt more sorry for the serial killer than I did the police characters. I also would have loved more focus on the setting of New Orleans, apart from a couple of mentions about the food or the heat, I didn't feel like we got as much as I wanted. The author also chose to reveal the identity of the killer at 40% into the book, which was a choice that I didn't think worked out terribly well, especially since the second half of the book was so different from the first half. And then it just ends! Yeah
That said, this author did characters very realistically. It felt like they were real people with real flaws who make real mistakes. Part of my issue with liking this book comes from this -- if I wanted to read about casually homophobic, corrupt police, I would go and read the news. (Especially when we're supposed to find one of those cops the 'mentor' character who does the right thing despite the rules). I did appreciate the ending where but other than that, there wasn't really anything to draw me to this book.
2 stars!
August 13, 2018
Great storyline
This is my second read by E.J. Findorff. I appreciate the authenticity conveyed without overplaying the general perception of NOLA.
It is, however, difficult to overlook the lack of a good editor. Both stories I read are in desperate need of a good proofreading.
This is my second read by E.J. Findorff. I appreciate the authenticity conveyed without overplaying the general perception of NOLA.
It is, however, difficult to overlook the lack of a good editor. Both stories I read are in desperate need of a good proofreading.
October 26, 2025
Another Great Novel !!!!!
Great Writing ! Great Storyline ! Great Characters ! EJ Findoff knows his Craft and Spins the Best Tales !! A Must Read @!
Great Writing ! Great Storyline ! Great Characters ! EJ Findoff knows his Craft and Spins the Best Tales !! A Must Read @!
October 3, 2013
I gave this 3 stars mainly because I liked the idea of what the author was trying to write and I thought it would be a gritty serial killer book, I was right about the killer.
The murders were never really described well or lingered on, it felt like the author didn't want to be writing about them so they got skirted round and given minimal detail, enough that I got the idea what happened.
I felt more Dec and his girlfriend were given more page space then the killings and the killer which started to put me of, I don't want to read about some cops relationship I wanted to read about a sick killer.
I felt that not enough was written about the killer apart from what stuff that was needed and I figured out who the killer was too early in the book. I kept reading to find out they caught the killer and was that a let a down, I was so disappointed in the ending, I expected more but got nothing.
This book reminded me why I don't read crime, especially when it's sold as gritty and not for the faint hearted, it read more like miss marple at times.
The murders were never really described well or lingered on, it felt like the author didn't want to be writing about them so they got skirted round and given minimal detail, enough that I got the idea what happened.
I felt more Dec and his girlfriend were given more page space then the killings and the killer which started to put me of, I don't want to read about some cops relationship I wanted to read about a sick killer.
I felt that not enough was written about the killer apart from what stuff that was needed and I figured out who the killer was too early in the book. I kept reading to find out they caught the killer and was that a let a down, I was so disappointed in the ending, I expected more but got nothing.
This book reminded me why I don't read crime, especially when it's sold as gritty and not for the faint hearted, it read more like miss marple at times.
March 3, 2013
AMAZING! This book was such a fast, enthralling, gripping read that once I picked it up I found it difficult to put down! I don't want to spoil anything since it is a mystery novel of sorts, but there were several shocking twists that literally caused me to gasp aloud. The humor and descriptions were raw and in the words of Decland our hero: "not PC!" I enjoyed this book so much that even towards the last several pages, my adrenaline was rushing and I had to stop and tell myself to slow down so I wouldn't quickly skim through the words! This is a must read for those not easily offended and looking for an incredible thriller!
February 28, 2013
ok, I got this as a free nook book, but did find it fascinating, if not grotesque... Since I do like this particular genre, I think that made it easier to deal with the graphic nature. Plus, having visited New Orleans, I liked how familiar things felt. The part I found lacking was how abruptly it all ended. It kept building, and it felt like the author left too many loose ends. Now keep in mind that I have an English degree, and am quite picky. The fact that I kind of hope there is a follow-up novel says something.
July 13, 2017
A chilling and fast paced thriller set in one of my favorite Cities in the world, New Orleans. The author has a memorable MC in Decland Dupree, a detective that struggles with his own character flaws and demons while on the trail of a horrific serial killer loose in the city. The author's dedication to the genre is clear in the painstaking detail and visualization of the daily grind and politics of working a big case in a relatively small City. The writing is tight and so is the suspense. An admirable debut.
March 23, 2013
The storyline is the typical cop chasing a serial killer. The book started out really good and then it took a weird twist. This kept you wanting to read more but the ending was incomplete. You find out what happens to the bad guys but not the good guys who you came to care about. The other problem is the "twist" kept your attention but was very unrealistic. If you want to keep a secret, people in power would quietly and quickly dispose of the secret and not let it continue.
March 8, 2013
Keeps the reader interested and there's a decent understanding and pacing of police procedure though clearly the author is enamored of the profiling aspect of the FBI having perhaps seen too much television recently. Still, a solid read that doesn't dwell too long in the grotesque and attempts with some success at multiple perspectives in the telling of the story.
January 6, 2014
I loved this book! I'm not usually a thriller reader but Findorff has converted me with this one. Great story, setting and plot. The characters were so real and leapt off the page such that I could imagine them in a movie. It is a page turner. I couldn't put it down until I found out what happened!
February 26, 2013
Unhinged was the first work I've read by EJ Findorff and it did not disappoint . This was a fast paced thriller that had you hanging on to each page, eager to see where the characters were headed next. A very enjoyable read if you don't become "unhinged".
August 7, 2016
I read this book in one sitting, due partly to insomnia and partly to do with the story being really good. The plot as fast paced and the characters interesting enough to keep my attention. The plot wasn't given away too early on and I would happily read other books by the author.
April 28, 2014
What started out as a taught thriller seemed to lag on after the midpoint. New Orleans is a great place for a book to take place, but it was not used enough. The plot, the reason for what was going on was a bit telegraphed from early on, but despite the shortcomings it was a strong debut novel.
October 20, 2016
Really unhinged!
What terrible villains! I couldn't wait for the ending, hoping the bad guys got their just desserts!
Disappointed that it ended where it did. Hoping there be a sequel. Detective Dupree is too good of a character to not write more stories about.
What terrible villains! I couldn't wait for the ending, hoping the bad guys got their just desserts!
Disappointed that it ended where it did. Hoping there be a sequel. Detective Dupree is too good of a character to not write more stories about.
Want to read
February 17, 2013Kindle freebie, 2/17/13
May 29, 2013
execellent
March 2, 2013
This was a great read, graphic and fast paced but I took my time with it, didn't want it to end!
December 28, 2015
Ugh. Totally improbable elements. Abrupt ending. Caricatured characters.
Read
May 21, 2015A GREAT BOOK AND A QUICK READ
February 28, 2016
Exciting
I really enjoyed this book, it would make a good film. I couldn't put this down and didn't want it to end.
I really enjoyed this book, it would make a good film. I couldn't put this down and didn't want it to end.
September 21, 2014
exciting
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