TOKEMA

In Zinter’s contemporary fantasy novel, a woman must free herself from a powerful demon.

Doris Draker, an innocent woman, had a regular life working as a secretary when a demon possessed her. The demon made Doris kill nine people—she was finally caught standing in a pool of blood over her last victim. She is sentenced to the notorious Tokema State Hospital for life. While Tokema is a horrible institution in which patients are treated as less than human, Doris finds an oasis of peace and humanity in her sessions with her therapist, Dr. Vernirelli. Being locked up doesn’t keep the demon away (he taunts her throughout her stay), but what’s stranger is the visions she begins to have. She sees herself outside Tokema, but in the blink of an eye she’s back in her room, with her feet covered in dirt. Dr. Vernirelli tries various methods to learn the truth behind Doris’ crimes, attempting to come face to face with the demon himself. A different therapist—a very different one—who’s treating Doris at Tokema is Dr. Tracy, who’s not as comforting as Dr. Vernirelli and indeed seems intent on breaking Doris’ spirit. (“See, my job here is not like all the other psychologists,” Dr. Tracy cheerfully and chillingly confesses.) Doris will need to persevere through the cruel treatment, rely on Dr. Vernirelli’s support, and find the truth behind her demon to exorcise him and end her suffering. This story is both a thriller that builds suspense with surprising plot turns and a horror story that incorporates the supernatural. (The description of the demon swallowing Doris in order to possess her is a creative twist on a traditional horror element.) The worldbuilding of Tokema feels effectively disturbing while toeing the line between fantastic elements that enhance the story and unrealistic elements that detract from its believability; Dr. Tracy’s reconditioning room, in which a great amount of abuse befalls Doris, typifies the latter. The narrative is a roller-coaster ride of twists and shocking revelations that will please readers of both genres.

Unsettling and frightening: a worthwhile and fast read.