Getting Under the ‘Skin’ of a Serial Killer in Rueben Dass’s New Novel

A Dark Exploration of Love and Passion

Rueben Dass’s latest novel, "Skin," is a crime-thriller that delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring the boundaries of love and passion.

The Inspiration Behind the Novel

Dass’s creative spark was ignited when he began pondering the concept of love and its darker alter ego. He wondered to what extent love can bring out the dark side of man, leading him to write a novel that tackles themes of mental health, corruption, and abuse.

A Gripping Plot

In "Skin," Inspectors Alysha (Aly) and Raj are tasked with investigating a gruesome murder. A prominent investigative journalist is found dead, her body in a foetal position with her hands covering her face. As forensic investigators attempt to move her hands, they discover that her skin has been surgically removed. The investigation leads them to the Cameron Highlands and the sleepy town of Teluk Intan, where they uncover a sinister adversary with a dark past and an even darker mind.

Research and Influences

Dass’s writing is influenced by Chris Carter and Thomas Harris, renowned authors of crime fiction. His character, Inspector Aly, is inspired by Clarice Starling from "The Silence of the Lambs." Dass has also drawn from his research on infamous serial killers, including Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer. He notes that the case of Ed Gein, known as the "Butcher of Plainfield," is similar to the one in his novel.

A Malaysian Take on Crime Fiction

Dass hopes that his novel will offer a unique perspective on the crime-thriller genre, often dominated by Western-centric stories. As a Malaysian author, he aims to bring a local flavor to the genre, setting his story in familiar locations like the Cameron Highlands and Teluk Intan.

The Author’s Journey

Dass is an accidental writer who initially aspired to become a screenwriter. He currently works as a researcher with a think tank in Singapore and has written a sequel to his 2023 novel, "The Number Four." His next projects will be a departure from the dark subject matter of "Skin," with a short-story collection and a love story set in India, inspired by visits to his grandfather’s village.

Conclusion

Rueben Dass’s "Skin" is a gripping novel that delves into the darker aspects of love and passion, offering a unique perspective on the crime-thriller genre. With its intricate plot and well-researched themes, this novel is a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

FAQs

• Is "Skin" a sequel to "The Number Four"?
  • Yes, "Skin" is the sequel to Dass’s 2023 novel "The Number Four."
• Who are the main characters in the novel?
  • The main characters are Inspectors Alysha (Aly) and Raj.
• What is the setting of the novel?
  • The novel is set in Malaysia, specifically in the Cameron Highlands and the town of Teluk Intan.
• What are the themes explored in the novel?
  • The novel explores themes of mental health, corruption, abuse, and the darker aspects of love and passion.