The Torment of Others

by Val McDermid
The Torment of Others cover
Good Books rating 3.17
Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 6772
  • Added: 2025-12-01
  • Updated: 2025-12-01
  • ISBN: 9780007344758
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2010-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Torment of Others is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human mind. The story revolves around a series of gruesome murders that seem to mirror a past case, leading criminal psychologist Dr. Tony Hill to question whether the convicted killer is truly responsible or if something far more sinister is at play. As DCI Carol Jordan and her team launch a dangerous undercover operation to catch the murderer, Hill prepares for a terrifying confrontation with one of the most perverse killers he has ever encountered. /n/n Written by award-winning author Val McDermid, this novel is part of the bestselling crime series featuring Tony Hill, known for its intense psychological suspense and intricate plotting. The book explores themes of obsession, manipulation, and the blurred lines between sanity and madness, making it a must-read for fans of crime fiction and psychological thrillers.

Reviews
The Storygraph · darknessfish · 2025-12-01
disappointing 2.00

The reviewer finds the book clumsy and annoying, criticizing it as a pastiche of a crime novel. They believe Val McDermid is capable of better writing.

The reviewer expresses disappointment with The Torment of Others, finding it clumsy and unnecessary. They feel that Val McDermid, who is known for her excellent writing, has not lived up to her usual standards in this book. The reviewer criticizes the plot as a pastiche of a crime novel, lacking the depth and originality that one would expect from McDermid. They suggest that the book is unworthy of her usual caliber of work.

Quick quotes

    But it's clumsy, annoying, and unnecessary.

    Val McDermid can write well, I've no doubt about that.

    But this is a pastiche of a crime novel, and unworthy of her usual standards.

Mum of Three World · 2024-12-13
excellent 4.50

The book is praised as one of Val McDermid's best works, with a gripping plot and excellent character development. The tension and psychological depth make it stand out.

The reviewer highly recommends The Torment of Others, stating that it is even better than most of Val McDermid's other books. They appreciate the way the author builds tension and psychological insight, making the story compelling and hard to put down. The characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps readers engaged throughout. The reviewer also notes that the book is not for the faint-hearted, as it deals with intense and gritty themes.

Quick quotes

    All of Val McDermid's books are very, very good.

    But I'm going to say The Torment of Others is even better than most of them.

    There is a lot to like here.

quippe · 2007-04-14
average 3.00

The reviewer acknowledges McDermid's skill in creating tension and pace but did not enjoy this book as much as her previous works.

The reviewer appreciates Val McDermid's ability to create tension and pace in her writing. However, they did not find The Torment of Others as enjoyable as some of her other books, such as The Mermaids Singing. The reviewer acknowledges that the book has its moments but feels that it lacks the depth and impact of McDermid's earlier works. They suggest that while the book is well-written, it does not quite live up to the high standards set by her previous novels.

Quick quotes

    There is no denying that Val McDermid knows how to create tension and pace.

    I did not enjoy this book as much as I did The Mermaids Singing.

    The book has its moments but lacks the depth and impact of McDermid's earlier works.

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