Book Review: Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby

S.A. Cosby’s Razorblade  Tears is a haunting, electrifying novel that grips you with its raw emotion and searing honesty. A story of grief, regret, and redemption, it follows two fathers—Isaiah “Ike” Randolph, a Black ex-con, and Buddy Lee Jenkins, a white, alcoholic drifter—bonded by the shared loss of their sons, Isaiah and Derek, a married couple brutally murdered. In their pain and guilt, these two grieving men form an uneasy alliance to avenge their sons’ deaths and, in doing so, confront their own failings as fathers who turned their backs on their boys while they were alive.

This is a novel that will break your heart and mend it all at once, delivering a sobering message for us all: accept your kids, your family, your friends for who they are, not for who you want them to be. Cosby doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, forcing readers to confront not only the biases of his characters but also the ones we may carry within ourselves.

Adam Lazarre-White’s narration is nothing short of masterful. His voice breathes life into each character, making you feel their grief, rage, and soul-deep struggles. Lazarre-White doesn’t just read the story—he immerses you in it. Every word feels visceral, pulling you into Ike and Buddy Lee’s world. It’s as though you’re riding shotgun in their truck, feeling the weight of their sorrow and the fiery intensity of their pursuit for justice. His performance elevates an already poignant novel into an unforgettable listening experience.

What makes Razorblade Tears unforgettable is the emotional depth Cosby infuses into every page. This isn’t just a revenge thriller—it’s a meditation on identity, prejudice, and the healing power of connection. Ike and Buddy Lee grapple with their internal struggles, their deeply ingrained biases, and their crippling regrets. Along the way, they begin to understand their sons in ways they never could before.

The common thread that ties them together is their granddaughter, Arianna, who is a living reminder of the love their sons shared. Through her, they find hope and purpose, carving out a small measure of peace in the wreckage of their lives. Cosby’s brilliance lies in his ability to balance despair with glimmers of redemption, rage with moments of humor, and heartbreak with a sliver of hope.

As a new fan of S.A. Cosby, I am captivated by his ability to craft stories that are both gritty and deeply human. His writing is rich with realism, suspense, and a profound understanding of the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and growth.

For anyone who hasn’t yet discovered Cosby’s work, Razorblade Tears is the perfect starting point. Paired with Adam Lazarre-White’s brilliant narration, it’s a must-read—or rather, a must-listen—that will linger with you long after the final chapter.

Rating: 5/5

Charles Francis, 01/02/2025