Suspense from a new author

 

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill

Amara Alvarez is a new homicide detective who is charged with finding the murderer of Zachary Coleman, who died at a water park with some friends.  As she digs into the case, she discovers that the teenager was involved in a serious crime spree, which his parents were unaware of.  Amara keeps investigating and discovers that even Zachary’s friends aren’t what they seem to be.  Can she find the truth despite the deceit?

This is the second book in this series by Tom Threadgill and I followed it fine, despite not having read the first one.  I enjoyed the understated humor presented by Amara and her co-worker, Starsky.  I liked Amara for her quirkiness—how many detectives do you know that have a pet iguana—and her gutsy-ness.  She had a compassionate side, which was endearing, too.

This book left some questions unanswered:  what about her mother’s cancer diagnosis?  What happens when she is assigned to be Rutledge’s partner?   Will her relationship with Starsky continue?  And just why is he nicknamed Starsky?  So obviously, I hope there is another book to answer these questions.  And while I am at it, I think I will need to read the first one, Collision of Lies.

Readers who enjoy suspense with a touch of humor and romance will enjoy this book.  I am grateful to the publisher for a free digital copy in return for my honest review.