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J.D. Robb
Hachette
This intriguing story, set in the future, describes Eve Dallas, detective, and her partner, Roarke.
The death and entombment of 12 young girls behind the wall of a disused and decrepit building owned by Roarke provides the crime.
A background of groups and people involved in providing home and assistance to homeless adolescent street girls says something about the very good intentions of the providers, but, as so often, the very human weaknesses that undo much of their work.
As each sad parcel is identified it has clearly described emotional impact for all involved, not least of course the parents and carers of these girls, missing for many years.
The meticulous and thoughtful processes of Eve and Roarke, the diversions, blind alleys and all of the investigation build tension and excitement into the story and the conclusion, maybe a little obvious from about halfway though, provides a good, satisfying read.
- Margaret Bannister is a retired Dunedin psychotherapist and science teacher.