David Anderson (44)

This is an interesting whodunit type of crime novel. We follow the detectives as they investigate a pair of murders, and we find the clues right along with them. The plot is mostly a straight forward mystery, with a few little twists along the way.

For me, the characters fall short. Their behavior feels stiff, and they lack the depth I need to help me connect and get lost in the story. The dialogue often sounds scripted and awkward, making it obvious that certain things are said to advance show more the plot or make a point, rather than being a realistic conversation.

A major issue for me comes with the two prominent female characters. They are both stereotypical in an unflattering way. One is a moody scatterbrain, while the other is like a teenager in love. Both women are high-level professionals in their jobs, but their personalities come off as childish.

In the end, while not a bad read, this is one of those books I could have put down and not picked up again. show less