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Taskers End
If there is a thin divide between brilliance and madness, who is to judge our sanity?
In his second novel, Alan Reynolds follows up the five-star rated Flying with Kites with a gripping psychological thriller, Taskers End.
The story opens with three criminal psychiatrists reviewing the case-notes and background history of Gerald Perry, a wealthy former forensic science student and diagnosed schizophrenic. We learn about his tragic up-bringing and the incident that lead him to be interned to a mental institution indefinitely.
When the decision is eventually made to release him, Gerald assumes a new identity and returns to his family home, Taskers End where he had been brought up by his beloved grand-parents. He soon discovers that in his absence they had died in mysterious circumstances and, using his forensic skills, starts his own investigation with devastating consequences.
Then there is the beautiful Maureen.
For everyone who becomes involved with Gerald Perry life will never be the same again.
In his second novel, Alan Reynolds follows up the five-star rated Flying with Kites with a gripping psychological thriller, Taskers End.
The story opens with three criminal psychiatrists reviewing the case-notes and background history of Gerald Perry, a wealthy former forensic science student and diagnosed schizophrenic. We learn about his tragic up-bringing and the incident that lead him to be interned to a mental institution indefinitely.
When the decision is eventually made to release him, Gerald assumes a new identity and returns to his family home, Taskers End where he had been brought up by his beloved grand-parents. He soon discovers that in his absence they had died in mysterious circumstances and, using his forensic skills, starts his own investigation with devastating consequences.
Then there is the beautiful Maureen.
For everyone who becomes involved with Gerald Perry life will never be the same again.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2012
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
February 7, 2026
Tasker’s End is a gripping and emotionally charged story that pulls the reader in from the very first chapter and refuses to let go. The author delivers a powerful blend of tension, character depth, and steady pacing, making the journey both immersive and unforgettable.
What truly stands out is the development of the characters. The protagonist is complex and believable, shaped by hard choices and escalating stakes that feel authentic rather than forced.
What truly stands out is the development of the characters. The protagonist is complex and believable, shaped by hard choices and escalating stakes that feel authentic rather than forced.
April 3, 2013
This story had me hooked from the outset. I'm sure that my pulse rate must have increased as I progressed through it and circumstances, decisions and fate all began to take effect. I recommend this book to fans of Ruth Rendell and I don't think for one moment they will be disappointed. Gripping stuff.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews