Assessment:
Plot: A couple of bored, retired cops decide to become PIs and take a missing persons case in Louisiana. Little do they know that what they are really hunting is a serial killer -- actually three serial killers – leading to a fast-paced, well-written read.
Prose/Style: The book flaunts intelligent and colorful prose with meticulous detail for the crimes. The police dialogue feels organic and involves a bit of humor.
Originality: Father/son kidnappers and killers is a pretty unique concept, but then add a completely unrelated serial killer into the mix and readers will have a pretty original read. Also of note is how the good guys deal with some of the bad guys: it’s brutal.
Character Development: Readers will love the two oldest retired cops, and it is nice to see diversity in crime novels. But it’s the youngest of the three, Ashe, who will resonate with readers – they're that that friend you need when things go south.
Date Submitted: August 26, 2019
For an emerging author, Shawn Scuefield does an amazing job of capturing your interest in this page turning novel. His research, character development and flow are that of a much more experienced author. If he is this good this soon, then great things are in store for him and us as well. I do so look forward to this list of characters coming back to visit us by way of a series of novels. This is one book you will not regret spending time with. As a matter of fact, if anything, you will have trouble putting it down.
Richard D. Rowland, Author.