Broken Wings : Book Review

"Broken Wings" by John E. Douglas is a gripping and haunting true crime story that delves into the mind of a notorious serial killer. In this book, Douglas, a former FBI profiler, provides an in-depth analysis of the case of Joseph McGowan, a man responsible for the vicious murders of several young women.

Douglas takes readers on a chilling journey, guiding them through the complex investigation process. With his extensive expertise and experience, he shines a light on the meticulous detective work and behavioral analysis required to capture a dangerous criminal. In dissecting the killer's motives, thought processes, and patterns, Douglas offers a fascinating exploration of the criminal mind and the techniques used to understand and apprehend such perpetrators.

What truly sets "Broken Wings" apart is Douglas's ability to humanize the victims. Through their individual stories, dreams, and aspirations, he breathes life into these tragically lost individuals. By doing so, he emphasizes the devastating impact that these crimes have on not only the victims themselves but also their families and communities. This added layer of empathy adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Furthermore, the author delves into the flaws within the criminal justice system. He openly discusses the challenges faced by investigators in cases involving serial killers, such as bureaucratic hurdles, jurisdictional issues, and the dire need for improved resources. By shining a light on these shortcomings, Douglas contributes to the important conversation surrounding the need for systemic changes to better protect the public.

Overall, "Broken Wings" is a chilling and informative read that showcases John E. Douglas's expertise in criminal profiling and his dedication to bringing justice to victims. Beyond being a captivating true crime story, it delves into the minds of perpetrators and the various challenges faced by law enforcement. This book is a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the psychology behind these heinous crimes.

What are readers saying?

"Broken Wings," a crime fiction novel by John E. Douglas, has received a varied response from reviewers. This book is part of the author's series on criminal profiling and the pursuit of justice, taking readers into the depths of a dark and intriguing world. While some readers found the book captivating and praised its suspenseful plot, others felt that it didn't meet their expectations.

One recurring theme in positive reviews is the book's captivating story. Many readers commended Douglas for his ability to create a thrilling and suspenseful narrative that kept them hooked from start to finish. They appreciated the author's extensive knowledge of criminal profiling, which added authenticity to the story, and found the attention to detail in the investigative process impressive.

Fans of the series also pointed out the well-developed characters in "Broken Wings." They found the protagonist, an FBI profiler, relatable and enjoyed following his journey as he confronted his own personal struggles while working to solve the case. The integration of personal challenges into the main plot received praise for adding depth and complexity to the overall story.

However, not all reviewers were satisfied with the book. Some felt that the plot progression was slow, leading to a lack of tension and excitement. They were disappointed by the pacing and found it difficult to fully engage with the story as a result. Additionally, a few readers expressed frustration with certain aspects of the character development, finding some characters to be one-dimensional or lacking depth.

In conclusion, "Broken Wings" by John E. Douglas has received a mixture of positive and negative reviews. While many appreciated the gripping story and well-developed characters, others were disappointed with the slow pace and certain aspects of character development. Nonetheless, if you enjoy crime fiction and are intrigued by the world of criminal profiling, this book may still be worth exploring.

BrokenWings BookClub MustRead