More Twisted - Book Review

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More Twisted: Collected Stories, Vol. II is a brilliant follow-up to Jeffery Deaver's Twisted anthology. Known for his intricate plots and psychological tension, Deaver delivers another set of short stories that showcase his mastery in crafting tales with unexpected twists and unsettling resolutions. This collection consists of 15 stories, each offering a unique perspective on crime, deception, and the darker aspects of human nature.

Deaver's stories revolve around several central themes, including deception, revenge, justice, and morality. Each story dives into the human psyche, exploring how ordinary people react under extraordinary circumstances.

Deception is a hallmark of Deaver's storytelling. He meticulously sets up situations that lead the reader to form specific assumptions, only to shatter those assumptions with an unexpected twist. This theme is not only reflected in the characters’ actions but also in how Deaver structures the narratives. Readers find themselves questioning the reliability of every perspective, which keeps them engaged and on edge.

Many stories in the collection examine the concept of justice and its subjective nature. The characters often operate in morally grey areas, making choices that blur the line between right and wrong. Deaver raises questions about whether the ends justify the means and how far someone can go to right a perceived wrong.

Revenge plays a central role in several stories. Characters driven by vengeance often find themselves trapped in cycles of violence and betrayal. Deaver’s exploration of this theme reveals the futility and destructiveness of revenge, even as it provides catharsis for the wronged.



Deaver’s writing style in More Twisted is concise, precise, and highly engaging. His ability to create fully realized characters and intricate plots within the constraints of short story format is remarkable. The twists are, of course, the hallmark of the collection. Deaver structures his stories to lull the reader into a false sense of security before delivering a shocking revelation. This approach works particularly well in short stories, where the limited length ensures that every detail is crucial.

Deaver experiments with different narrative voices and formats. Some stories are written in the first person, offering an intimate glimpse into the protagonist’s thoughts, while others use third-person omniscient narration to maintain suspense. The variety in narration adds depth and freshness to the collection. Deaver’s characters are well-developed, even within the confines of a short story. Their motivations, fears, and desires are explored in depth, allowing readers to empathize with them, even when their actions are questionable.

Each story in More Twisted deserves attention, but a few stand out for their intricate plots and profound impact.

The Commuter: This story is a quintessential example of Deaver’s ability to misdirect the reader. It follows a man who notices peculiarities on his daily train commute and becomes suspicious of a fellow passenger. The story explores themes of paranoia and the bystander effect, leading to a chilling twist that makes the reader question their assumptions about the protagonist’s reliability.

The Therapist: In this psychological thriller, Deaver delves into the mind of a therapist who becomes entangled in a patient’s dangerous secret. The story builds tension as the therapist grapples with ethical dilemmas and personal safety. The ending is both shocking and thought-provoking, leaving readers pondering the boundaries of trust and confidentiality.

Afraid: This story revolves around a young woman who discovers unsettling truths about her new home. Deaver expertly uses the setting to create a sense of foreboding, while the protagonist’s internal conflict adds emotional depth. The twist not only surprises but also redefines the entire narrative, showcasing Deaver’s mastery of the form.

Copycat: In Copycat, Deaver explores the psychology of a serial killer and the detective hunting them. The story is rich with procedural details, making it a treat for fans of crime fiction. The interplay between the killer and the detective is compelling, and the final twist re-contextualises everything that came before.

Forever: This story stands out for its exploration of love and obsession. A man becomes fixated on preserving his relationship, leading to a series of decisions with dire consequences. Deaver uses this story to examine how love can become a destructive force when taken to extremes.

The collection showcases Deaver’s versatility. While all the stories fall under the umbrella of crime and psychological thriller, they vary widely in tone, setting, and subject matter. This variety ensures that the collection never feels repetitive or formulaic.

Deaver’s ability to craft twists is unparalleled. Each story offers at least one major revelation that forces readers to reconsider everything they’ve read. These twists are not just gimmicks but are carefully woven into the narrative fabric, enhancing the overall impact of the stories. Despite the brevity of the stories, Deaver provides deep psychological insights into his characters. Their actions and motivations feel authentic, making the stories both relatable and unsettling.

For some readers, the heavy reliance on twists might become predictable over time. Once the pattern is recognized, the element of surprise may diminish slightly, although the quality of the storytelling remains high. A few stories end ambiguously, leaving readers with unanswered questions. While this can be effective in creating a sense of unease, it may frustrate those who prefer clear resolutions.

More Twisted solidifies Jeffery Deaver’s reputation as a master of the short story format. The collection is a testament to his ability to craft intricate plots and complex characters, all while delivering the shocking twists that have become his trademark. Each story is a standalone masterpiece, yet together they form a cohesive exploration of human nature’s darker aspects.

For fans of psychological thrillers and crime fiction, More Twisted is an essential read. It challenges readers to think critically, question their assumptions, and confront the complexities of morality and justice. While it may not suit those who prefer straightforward narratives, the collection offers a rewarding experience for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling and clever misdirection.

In the end, More Twisted is more than just a collection of stories; it’s a masterclass in the art of suspense and surprise, proving once again why Jeffery Deaver is one of the most celebrated writers in the genre.

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