The Fourth Motive (Farrell and Kearns)

Thanks to Netgalley for introducing me to this author. Although the second book in the series and there were mentions to the first, this reader did not feel as though they had missed anything by not reading the previous novel. But I will admit that this reader will be reading that book in the not too distant future.

This book is a well written, well-paced, page turner of a book. The development of the characters is good and there is a touch of humour especially between Kearns and Farrell. However, there is the regrettable repeated mention of the police being under funded (apparently the author is a former cop) and constrained by the Law whereas these two investigators face no such restriction. There is even a bit of a useless love story show more which, I am sure, will receive more attention in subsequent novels.

There are twists a turns a plenty and the link between the killer and the female protagonist is interesting and not in the least contrived. For those of us who love murder mysteries this one had a dark edge to it. It shows that the police are not always innocent in their actions and although some guy be questionable their motives are good.

The motives of the killer are irrational yet all too real. But he is not quite prepared a) for the female protagonist or b) for the private investigators. The story is relentless; a real thrilling thrill ride. Cleverly the reason behind the attacks is well hidden and this reader did not manage to identify them before they were revealed.

This is a thrill of a read and a real page turner. This book is solid and entertaining. I stayed up until 4am just to find what happened next. The characters, as I have said, are well developed and intruding enough for this reader to read about them some more. This reader in particular will be seeking out more of this author.

Full Disclosure: I received a free copy from Netgalley for an honest review. show less

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review. The cast includes a stalker, a stubborn female, her father a judge, a couple of private eyes, and the police. The plot is busy with a lot of twists and turns. It also has a bit of romance thrown into the mix. It is a fast-paced read, and I would recommend it. Can't wait for the next one in the series.