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Prescription for Terror |
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 Prescription for Terror bySandra Levy Ceren Andrew Scott Publishers 237 pages, 1999 ISBN 0966986105 Reviewed by PJ Nunn Read our interview with the author by PJ Nunn Dr. Cory Cohen is a therapist with a past. Painful though it was, it does help her relate to her clients. It may also blur the lines of objectivity. Emotional connections have no place in a professional relationship between therapist and client. Knowing that Grace’s presenting issue is one of low self-esteem, Cory is delighted when she arrives for an appointment feeling more positive about herself. Excitement dims rapidly when she learns the smile Grace wears is due to a recently developing telephone relationship with a self-professed "shy" stranger. Cory shakes off the twinge of uneasiness until she learns another client was raped after meeting a man under similar circumstances. After repeatedly trying to contact Grace and warn her, Cory learns that Grace has been raped and murdered. Cory knows the two events were not coincidental, but the police dismiss her concerns. Wrestling with dreams and memories of her own brutal rape years ago, Cory determines to find a way to catch this man before he rapes and kills again. Her persistent investigation leads her right to the insurance provider that many of the local therapists depend on for payment. When the insurance company discontinues her contract, Cory feels isolated but even more convinced she’s on the right track. She soon discovers that her practice isn’t the only thing in jeopardy – the killer is stalking her. Prescription for Terror shows an unusual amount of passion. This topic is obviously one about which the author feels strongly. Drawing from her own experience as a therapist, Ceren pays careful attention to detail and the interaction that transpires between therapist and client. It’s interesting to find a writer so dedicated to a cause, and yet able to craft an intriguing tale of mystery without sounding overly dogmatic. Ceren presents a very real and timely topic from an experienced and entertaining platform. Although the dialogue is somewhat stilted at times, the characters have heart and vulnerable characteristics that help readers relate. The story is carefully plotted and leads to a dramatic and satisfying conclusion. |
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