I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A seemingly ordinary man unleashes terror on an unsuspecting city in author Neal Cassidy’s psychological thriller, “Schroeder”.

The Synopsis

A gripping new psychological thriller by author Neal Cassidy, SCHROEDER, weaves together elements of the literary thriller/horror genre, stream-of-consciousness narration, and critical social commentary.


When an ordinary young man wakes up in his quiet neighborhood on a day seemingly like all the others, the city he’s lived in all his life has no idea what’s about to befall it once he sets out on a day-long bike ride carrying a purposefully packed backpack and a definitive plan.

Who is Schroeder, and what motivates his brutal killing spree? As he cycles from one victim’s home to the next, keeping pace with the rhythm of a city that burgeons to life under an increasingly dazzling sun exposing both its beauty and vivacity and its dark, dirty, underbelly, Schroeder lays bare his dreams, disappointments, delights, and dismays, establishing himself as a compelling contemporary antihero. The day rolls ominously towards its climax through hectic city streets, lush suburban gardens, stately mansions, and decrepit housing projects, punctuated by Schroeder’s reflections on a society in shambles and a deeply damaged, if not broken, humanity—but not without revealing life’s boundless wonder and infinite possibilities for joy and redemption through moments that are within—and yet tragically beyond—Schroeder’s grasp. A tell-all denouement brings Schroeder out of the shadows of his actions, the pathos of his questions about the kind of world we live in lingering long after.

The Review

This was definitely a thrilling, chilling, and shocking read. The author perfectly touches on the culture of bullying and violence and the actions society often takes to give violent people a place to grow. The author’s writing style, namely the stream-of-consciousness style of narrative work given by the protagonist, allows the reader to feel the adrenaline and tension that mounts as the deadly actions intensify throughout the story. 

The heart of this narrative is the character-driven story, namely the protagonist Schroeder. The eerie, calm direction of the character’s mindset and the haunting ease with which the character takes these heinous actions is mirrored by the emotional backstory of what this individual endured, from loss and harassment to enduring depression and more. The thoughtful contemplation and examination of society and the daily actions people take against one another showed the depth of this character and the haunting mindset of a violent individual, one born out of tragedy yet still disturbing in his approach.

The Verdict

Memorable, haunting, and entertaining author Neal Cassidy’s “Schroeder” is a must-read psychological thriller. The narrative’s twists and turns and compelling commentary on the violent state of our world today will stay with readers long after the final page. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today or grab your own copy on October 15th, 2024!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Neal Cassidy is the author of THE FINAL WEEKEND:A STONED TALE and SCHROEDER. He was born in 1975 and raised in Forest. He is a graduate of The Nene School and lives nowhere in particular.

https://www.facebook.com/theNealCassidy

IG – @thenealcassidy