The statement is made that this is a debut novel, although the author has co-written two books with Richard Patterson previously. Be that as it may, this solo effort s an impressive one. It introduces a troubled but determined protagonist, Darlene O’Hara, a detective in a lower East Side New York precinct.
One day, O’Hara catches a missing person case and starts working it diligently. But after three days, the investigation becomes a homicide case and she is told to keep away from it and leave it to the specialists, including a star detective from Homicide South. However, she can’t let go and defies orders, attempting to solve the crime, until she is finally suspended. And she still goes on.
The author, a skilled journalist and researcher, spent three months riding around with NYPD detectives, absorbing routine and the smells and sights of the Lower East Side neighborhoods, and his descriptions attest to his powers of observation. Several chapters are introduced by dark, brooding photos of various sites in the neighborhoods (taken by Daina Zivarts, the author’s wife).
Only one fault was found by this graduate of NYU: a description of a windbreaker worn by a co-ed is said to be purple and white. As any alumnus (alumna) of NYU knows, the school’s color is Violet. Another criticism relates to several typographical errors; while not detracting from the quality of the novel, it certainly is unexpected from a publisher like Harper.
All that aside, go and get a copy. You’ll enjoy. Recommended.
