Razorblade Tears is an instant classic, not just in the thriller genre, but in American literature. I think back to some of the books that had a profound impact on my life and this is near the top. For me, this is a modern equivalent, or at least of the same importance, to books like To Kill a Mockingbird or The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. I honestly believe it will be required reading in school sometime in our lifetime.
I’m going to skip a recap of the story and tell you to simply read the description on the links or the jacket when it’s published. I can’t summarize it any better than they have. Instead I will say this…this book is centered on revenge, recompense, and retribution. With those powerful motivators, there is no telling what the protagonists are willing to do in pursuit of justice for their murdered sons.
Based on Cosby’s debut Blacktop Wasteland (which I absolutely loved), I assumed that his second novel was going to be a high octane thriller that leaned heavy on the action and violence and it was… but it turned out to be so much more. While there is more than enough action throughout the entire book to keep the most diehard thriller fan satisfied, it is the incredible emotional depth and layers that takes it beyond the typical story for this genre. Regardless of your race, economic status, sexual orientation, or anything else you might be characterized by…this is a book that we can all relate to. It holds up a mirror to modern America and asks the simple questions…who are we at this moment and who do we want to be going forward?
It is a thought provoking tale that is timeless, yet somehow timely as well. When you combine that with fast paced action scenes, relatable characters, and a hyper-realistic writing style then you have a book that transcends social boundaries and forces people to take stock of themselves and the world around them. Cosby takes his readers right up against all the self imposed barriers that separates us as individuals and, with the genius of his writing, gives us a little boost in the hope we lift ourselves over them.
Cosby’s distinct writing style is brilliant through its simplicity; succinct, vivid, and relatable all at the same time. Rather than the normal feeling of reading a great book, Cosby is able to teleport you to a familiar location where it feels more like you’re sitting around together as a party is winding down and then he leans forward, a slight grin on his face, and says…“y’all want to hear something crazy?”
To say this is a ‘must read’ is an understatement. This is REQUIRED reading and should win every possible award this year.
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Purchase Razorblade Tears
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Barrington Books
Chapter 2 Books
Murder By The Book
Once Upon A Crime
The Book Dragon
The Poisoned Pen
