Schroeder by Neal Cassidy is one of those books that left me conflicted. The premise is gripping—an ordinary man on a meticulously planned killing spree, told entirely through his perspective. But while the concept had promise, the execution made it a slog.

The stream-of-consciousness narration gave deep insight into Schroeder’s mind, but after a while, it felt like wading through mud. Every stray thought, every observation, every seemingly insignificant detail was laid out, making the pacing drag. I get that it was intentional, but it often felt more tedious than immersive.

There were moments of brilliance—certain reflections on humanity, isolation, and the cruelty of the world hit hard. The ending, in particular, reframed a lot of the narrative and made me reconsider how I felt about Schroeder as a character. However, getting to that point required a lot of patience.

If you love deep psychological dives and don’t mind a meandering narrative, you might appreciate this. But for me, it was a 3-star read—interesting, well-written, but frustratingly slow.

I really wanted to enjoy this book but I just couldn't get into the writing style. I am a fast paced book type of gal and this was the opposite. I really wanted to read this as the topic was interesting and unique but it just wasn't for me.

I think like many others the run on sentences threw me - now maybe this is because I received an ARC copy so the published copy my present cleaner? But based on my copy it was a bit difficult to follow.

I like the idea of a stream of consciousness critiquing society, it’s intriguing. In my head this man is whistling as he drives his bike from scene to scene and that picture is a bit funny to me. I think I expected more gore. This was definitely a book that would satisfy someone who is curious about the mind of a killer and the thought process and patterns leading up to killing (from a fictional standpoint).

Thank you NetGalley, Neal Cassidy, and M&S Publishing for a copy of this book.

Content Warnings: Murder, Gore, Violence, Suggested Racism, Animal Violence, Animal Death, Bullying, Gun Violence, Ableism, Drug Use, Alcohol Use, Fat Phobia, Mention of CP, Child Abuse, Child/Minor Death, Sexual Abuse/Mentions of Sexual Assault, Homophobia, Suicide, Mental Health Issues

What to say about Neal Cassidy's "Schroeder?" It is a look into the psyche of a young man who is just a little different, a little strange. Schroeder has a routine for everything he does, including his morning routine. One day, however, his routine takes a different turn--one delving into the exploration of good and evil, of the darkest parts of the human condition, and of murder. Cassidy takes us on a ride through the mind of a young man at his breaking point, literally. The novel is told from the titular Schroeder's point of view. We, as the reader, are privy to every single thought, good or bad, that goes through Schroeder's head. We see the world through his eyes, and through him, we explore what it is to be human, to be alive, and the evil that sits within us all.

The premise of "Schroeder" is interesting. Unfortunately, the execution leaves much to be desired. While I would consider the novel to be well written, it is a slog to get through. Every single thought, every single emotion, distraction, or observation is written down. Often, the story is told not with plot, but with long, meandering lists of memories. These lists can take up multiple pages. They are extremely difficult to get through, especially since there does not seem to be a reason for most of them. Just filler.

I liked the book at first. The first chapter was wonderful--like the first bite of a crisp apple. However, just like that apple, the story begins to brown and rot rather quickly. I would recommend not reading "Schroeder" unless you have nothing else to read.

Thank you so much for a copy. I really struggled with how this was written, the layout, the voice. It just wasn't working for my brain.

A Deep Dive into a Troubled Mind
Schroeder is a haunting journey into the mind of a man who is unraveling. A book written in the killer’s perspective.
In a single day, we follow Schroeder through his city as he wrestles with his own thoughts and regrets. He has people to kill. And boy are the murders brutal. This is a haunting ride you won’t forget.

The story is shared exclusively from Schroeder’s first-person perspective - technically, he’s an unnamed protagonist until the very end. As such, we get a detailed glimpse into the workings of his mind, and I must say that at the beginning of the book, maybe to the halfway point, this perspective makes it hard not to like him.

Schroeder possesses a haunting empathy in so many ways. But then the reader is graciously reminded just where his empathy ends as he reaches one of his next victims, several of whom aren’t given the luxury of a quick death.

Woven between his acts of violence are astute observations of the world around him and the way he’s been treated throughout his life that will be achingly familiar to many readers, myself included. Cassidy writes his character and settings with so much detail, I could see it all so clearly in my mind’s eye as I read.

Each chapter is marked by word art forming a letter of Schroeder’s name. I really enjoyed this detail and found it clever and unique. The words chosen are from the chapter’s text; it made me wonder whether it was showing the parts of the experience that Schroeder would remember or think about later.

Schroeder is written, painfully obviously if not stated outright, to be neurodivergent, and I wasn’t sure how I felt about this until the end. I wondered if the book would reveal itself to be a critique of how we treat neurodivergence, or just give bigots more reason to bully “the weird kid”.

In my opinion, it is clearly the former. While Schroeder - notably - doesn’t think much about why he’s doing what he’s doing, thoughts slip through about how alienated he felt despite his best efforts. Nothing excuses Schroeder’s horrific acts of violence, but it is impossible not to sympathize with his pain, especially as a child lost to the reasons the people around him treat him so horribly.

In a fascinating way, however, I found myself less sympathetic of Schroeder as the book continued. Maybe the acts of horror turn the reader jaded. Maybe the uglier parts of the character’s personality - the parts that lead him to commit such violent revenge, and rarely even take the expected joy in it - become more apparent over time, bits and pieces of a somewhat insufferable attitude sprinkled between other, more relatable statements.

I struggled with the stream-of-consciousness narration style, though I’m so unfamiliar with it that I can’t rightfully blame the book for it. I sought out this book to try something new and found I didn’t enjoy it, simple as that. If you already know you enjoy that style of writing, or you want to give it a try like I did, I do recommend this book.

I will leave you with one of my last notes as I was reading: How can Schroeder write such long lists of things that make him happy, yet still feel so unsatisfied? Is it the human connection, or lack thereof, that’s so important?

Yes. Yes it is.

Many thanks to NetGalley and M & S Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

If you stick with this book, it will actually break you (in a good impactful way). At first, I struggled to get through what I assumed was a detached stream of consciousness from a character on a killing spree. The format is actually unique but challenging to sit through. However, there is a point to all of the characters escapades. So when you reach the last 10%, it may just break your heart and put everything into perspective. It was one of those books where I had to skim through the earlier pages to really consolidate the choices that were made. It bumped up from 3 to 5 stars once I got to the end because it was just so impactful. I think it’s a beautifully written piece with many quotable reflections on the absurdities of our humanity. Also this is a completely random and inane highlight but there is mention of the character also obsessing over my favourite pen (Pilot g2-07), now how in the heck has someone had that very same random obsession!?

This is a heavy, reflective and existential horror that I highly recommend, if one can digest this.

Trigger warnings for gore, torture, domestic abuse, child abuse.

Thank you to NetGalley, Neal Cassidy and M & S Publishing for this advanced readers copy. Opinions expressed are my own.

I just finished this with an involuntary “wow”, so that says something about this short novel. When I started this book, I wasn’t impressed. The writing isn’t my style - it was more a stream of consciousness, a meandering of thoughts that our character Schroeder is having. How it affected my feelings on the book soon changed, though…

It’s a Thursday, and Schroeder has plans. He has people to kill, and he’s going to spend the whole day (or as much as he can before getting caught) doing just that. The murder scenes were fantastic, and did not disappoint. Schroeder begins his jaunt around his unnamed town, killing people in very brutal ways. In between, as he’s going from victim to victim, we get to know Schroeder, though Schroeder is a hard man to read (literally).

To me, he felt neurodivergent, though that was never touched on. From the beginning, we know he was bullied, that he is a loner, that he is a perfectionist and maybe, despite his killing spree, not such a bad guy? There was such a dichotomy between how he treated some people versus the horrific things he was doing, and I found that intriguing. While reading, I also wondered why this massacre was taking place. Then I got to the end…

The diary entries almost broke me. You may end this book loving Schroeder, or if not loving him, at least having some empathy for him. For me, that was the best part of the book - most of you know I love “horror with heart”, but is it possible that this was “splatterpunk with heart”? I believe so!

While the writing style of this book wasn’t to my liking, and Schroeder and Patrick Bateman have little in common but keeping neat when murdering people, this reminded me a lot of “American Psycho”. The constant internal narrative is the same, and this would probably make a great movie. I started this book with some annoyed trepidation, but I finished it with great respect. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

(Thank you to M&S Publishing, Neal Cassidy and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review.)

Schroeder is a dark, intense psychological thriller that puts readers directly inside the mind of a spree killer over the course of a single day. Neal Cassidy uses a stream-of-consciousness narrative to fully immerse us in Schroeder’s thoughts, making for a raw and unsettling reading experience.

The novel is gripping and thought-provoking, offering not just a portrayal of violence, but also a deep dive into themes of isolation, despair, and the darker corners of the human psyche. Schroeder’s perspective is chilling yet strangely captivating as he reflects on his past, society, and the reasoning behind his actions. Cassidy’s writing is sharp and deliberate, making the character feel disturbingly real.

That being said, the book’s pacing can be a bit slow at times, particularly in the beginning, as it lingers in Schroeder’s internal world. The disjointed style, while effective in portraying his mental state, might be challenging for some readers to follow. Additionally, the graphic content makes this a heavy read, so it may not be for everyone.

Thank you NetGalley and M & S Publishing for the ARC.

I went into this completely blind, and im not sure if that helped me enjoy it more, or less. While I quickly realized I should have read the trigger warnings first (I typically dont, as I am a little freak), I was also almost immediately enthralled by our protagonist's narration. Almost entirely stream of consciousness, we're taken through a series of disturbing and intensely specific murders, all clearly targeted and pre-meditated. It's not until the very end that we are told why our narrator committed these crimes, and it was such a unique experience having such a turn of feelings towards our character upon learning his "why". I really enjoyed the way Cassidy is so intentional with every detail of the story. Multiple times I found myself asking if or why something was relevant, and trust, it's ALWAYS relevant. If you have a strong stomach for gore, I highly recommend this quick read!

Schroeder by Neal Cassidy presents a unique and intriguing premise, blending elements of family dynamics and personal struggle with a sense of introspection. The writing is clear and accessible, and the themes of identity, longing, and relationships are thoughtfully explored. Cassidy does a good job of capturing the emotional complexity of the protagonist’s journey, creating a sense of tension and yearning throughout the story.

However, while the themes are strong, the execution sometimes feels shallow, with the characters and their motivations not always fully developed. The pacing can also feel uneven at times, with certain sections dragging while others are rushed. The emotional depth that could have elevated the story is missing, leaving it feeling more like a surface-level exploration of its themes rather than a deeply immersive experience.

Overall, Schroeder is an interesting read with moments of promise, but it doesn’t fully live up to its potential. It’s a solid story, but those looking for more character development and a deeper emotional connection might find it lacking.

This was one of my first psychological thriller experiences, and honestly… I’m still processing. The book definitely pulled me into the main character’s head, which was both interesting and super unsettling. The writing was solid, but some parts dragged.I can see why people who love this genre would like this book. The tension builds in a way that kept me hooked, even when I wanted to look away. There were moments that made my skin crawl, but I made it through . If you’re new to psychological thrillers like me, be prepared for a wild ride . If it were possible I’d give 3.5 stars .

While the premise was nice, the writing was... not what I expected. I wanted more from the characters because I felt that what was on the front cover and the front flap was not what we were given.

*Schroeder* by Neal Cassidy is a haunting and thought-provoking psychological thriller that blurs the lines between horror, literary fiction, and social commentary. The novel’s gripping narrative unfolds as a seemingly ordinary young man, Schroeder, embarks on a day-long killing spree, cycling from victim to victim in a city that has no idea what is about to transpire. Cassidy masterfully weaves an intricate and unnerving portrait of a disturbed mind, using stream-of-consciousness narration to provide an intimate, albeit chilling, look into Schroeder’s psyche.

From the outset, the reader is pulled into Schroeder’s twisted journey, where a quiet suburban morning quickly turns into an intense and violent exploration of a broken society. As Schroeder moves through various neighborhoods—from lush suburbs to decaying housing projects—the vivid descriptions of the city and its inhabitants reveal a duality: the beauty of life set against its raw, gritty underbelly. Cassidy's sharp social commentary on societal flaws is evident throughout, making Schroeder not just a killer, but a deeply complex antihero who offers a stark critique of the world around him.

What makes *Schroeder* so compelling is its focus on the protagonist’s inner world. Schroeder is not a mindless villain, but a deeply reflective individual whose actions are intertwined with his views on the world—his dreams, disappointments, and disillusionment with humanity. His journey is not just one of physical violence but an internal descent into despair, and yet there are fleeting moments of wonder and hope that make the reader question if redemption is possible, even for someone like him. These moments of clarity provide a fascinating contrast to the brutality he inflicts on those around him, allowing for an exploration of the complexities of human emotion and the paradox of existence.

Cassidy’s writing style is both lyrical and disturbing. The stream-of-consciousness technique places the reader inside Schroeder’s mind, creating a sense of intimacy and dread as his thoughts spill out unfiltered. This approach not only adds to the psychological tension but also makes the narrative feel deeply personal, almost like an invitation to understand the inner workings of a broken soul. As the day progresses and the city becomes more chaotic, the reader is left to ponder the greater questions that Schroeder’s actions bring to the forefront—what is the value of life, and can one ever truly escape the weight of their own disillusionment?

The novel builds to a powerful denouement, where Schroeder’s motivations are revealed in full. The reveal is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking, offering a glimpse into the mind of a man whose violent actions are not simply the result of malice, but of a profound existential crisis. The final pages linger long after the book is closed, leaving readers to wrestle with the dark, unsettling questions it raises about society, humanity, and the possibility of redemption.

In conclusion, *Schroeder* is a novel that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we live in and the fragility of the human condition. It is a dark, complex, and beautifully written thriller that will stay with you long after the final page. Cassidy’s exploration of violence, existential despair, and the complexities of human emotion ensures that *Schroeder* is not just a typical thriller, but a deeply philosophical and unforgettable read.

I gave Schroeder ★★★☆☆. The book offers a deep dive into the mind of a spree killer, presented through a stream-of-consciousness narrative. While the approach provides an intimate look into the protagonist’s psyche, it can be challenging to follow at times. The story is intense and not for the faint-hearted, with graphic depictions of violence. The final diary entries offer some clarity, but overall, it was just a good book, wrong time read for me.

Schroeder by Neal Cassidy is a psychological thriller that delves into the mind of an ordinary young man whose life takes a dark and violent turn. The narrative follows the protagonist, Schroeder, as he embarks on a day-long journey through his city, carrying a backpack with a sinister purpose. Through a stream-of-consciousness narrative, readers gain insight into his thoughts and motivations, offering a raw and unfiltered look into his psyche.

Cassidy's portrayal of Schroeder's internal struggles is both intense and unsettling. The use of stream-of-consciousness narration effectively immerses the reader in the protagonist's turbulent mind, highlighting his feelings of isolation and despair. However, this narrative style can be challenging, as it often leads to a disjointed and erratic flow, which may hinder some readers' engagement with the story.

The novel's pacing is deliberate, reflecting the protagonist's meticulous planning and the unfolding of his grim intentions. While this approach adds depth to character development, it occasionally results in a sluggish progression, particularly in the first half of the book. Some readers may find themselves yearning for a quicker tempo to maintain heightened suspense.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of societal issues, such as the impact of isolation and the potential for violence in seemingly ordinary individuals. Cassidy prompts readers to reflect on the underlying factors that can lead to such drastic actions, offering a commentary on the fragility of the human psyche.

However, the graphic depictions of violence and the protagonist's disturbing thought processes may be overwhelming for some readers. The explicit content serves to underscore the novel's themes but can be discomforting, necessitating a cautious approach for those sensitive to such material.

In conclusion, Schroeder provides a thought-provoking and intense exploration of a troubled mind. While the narrative style and pacing present certain challenges, the novel succeeds in delving into complex psychological and societal themes. It is recommended for readers who appreciate deep psychological character studies and are prepared for a dark and unsettling journey.

Schroeder is a very unique story, told in a stream of consciousness style of writing. The story is non-linear, which can capture the attention of the reader or leave the reader feeling lost. Schroeder is immersive if you allow it to be. However, with that being said, I feel that it didn't quite capture the full understanding of what was happening at times. The plot was lost in the style.

I read a lot of true crime books, but this one did not fulfill my expectations. I did like the desxriptions of what he saw on his daily bike rides, but what I had trouble with was the narrative way the book had been written. I could not get into his head the way the author had anticipated, but that is just me and I am sure many people could fully understand that type of narrative. The storyline itself is sad and compelling. What does go through a killer's mind?
I do thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.

A big thank you to M & S Publishing and NetGalley for getting a chance to read this ebook!

I was drawn in by the cover, mystery surrounding who was "Schroeder" and really fell in love with how the chapters were laid out and the non-linear story telling. The unique and clever stream of consciousness writing style can really captivate your attention, and immerse you inside the mind of the main character. However, it's definitely not a nice place to be what-so-ever. Bleak, disturbed and had me audibly gasping at horrific scenes during my read. I tried to understand their intentions and actions, however with the shocking and graphic scenes of violence, it was really hard to see through the emotions I felt for those people they encountered that day... the ending, however, gives you the full perspective.

Read at your own risk, and check your trigger warnings PLEASE! ⚠️