Saturday, April 11, 2015

A Twist on the Serial Killer Theme

DI Helen Grace has just landed a serial killer case. A killer kidnaps two people, locks them us in an abandoned structure, and gives them a grisly choice. One must kill the other then the killer will be set free.

Helen Grace herself has some issues. She's a workaholic DI with apparently no life outside of work, but her demons lead her to pay Jake for S&M sessions. As the case progresses, Helen begins to realize that the case has some connection to her, but facing it is not easy.

I found this take on the serial killer theme innovative, but that was the only part that wasn't predictable. The fact that Helen is troubled is a theme running through many detective novels, but she's more than troubled she's edging toward psychosis. I didn't find her character believable. She does all the things a competent DI would do, but when she starts to suspect a connection to herself, she delays in investigating.

If you like fast paced thrillers, you may enjoy this novel. The chapters are short moving among the various characters, including the victims. However, since the actions are predictable even the short chapters get old after awhile.

I didn't enjoy this book. Helen was not a sympathetic character, and the scenes of the victims were pretty gross. However, it is a twist on a much used theme, so it may be worth reading for that reason.


I reviewed this book for Net Galley.  

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