Detective Sheryn Sterling returns with a new investigation in which—much like in her previous case described in One Small Sacrifice—all clues point to an obvious suspect. Of course, in fiction the obvious is always too easy, and Sheryn and her team must find out what’s really going on. The story is engaging, with a good pace, plenty of tension, and interesting characters. I liked the story and the various characters much more in this book than the author’s previous novel. The detective team is just as appealing, but this time the suspects don’t all seem like jerks, making me much more interested in the outcome.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital advance review copy.

Initially I felt the story was slow, but once it picked up it was a page turner. The reader could connect with the protagonist and feel that she deserves another chance in life. The suspense was well maintained and the red herrings were well explained upto the epilogue. Overall a good read.

The experts all say that the worst thing you can do is pay 💰 off a blackmailer. They’ll just keep coming back again and again, bleeding you for an arm, a leg, a kidney, your soul. You’ll never get rid of this pigeon. But, then again, there are things far worse than paying off a blackmailer. There are countless ways the payoff can go sour. This crime story explores one of those ways.

It is the second book in the series, easy to read and with wide appeal. And, the way this all plays out will definitely surprise you.

Not always fully realistic in its portrayal of police interrogations, cooperative witnesses, and more. Nevertheless, an engaging read.

Where to begin! A lot of action, information and great characters...

It all begins with Jo bringing $50,000 to her blackmailer (who she had never met in person). Things ramp up and one person is dead and Jo is shot in the arm. Somehow she is able to flee via the fire escape ladder.

Detectives Sheryn Sterling and Rafael Mendoza are on the case. They are called to the scene at Andray Baxter's studio apartment. Andray had been dead for less than 2 hours. There is no phone or laptop to confiscate. The detectives check with neighbors and get a bit of information. The landlord where the murder took place shows up and he is a mean dude. Seems as if Andray has him in litigation...

Meanwhile Jo cannot go to the police for reasons we will find out - but she survives with a homemade tourniquet. Jo goes to her office and a laptop had been sent there to her. Whose laptop would state "AB's Laptop" as a screensaver? Andray Baxter? How strange! Now Jo is really worried particularly knowing that the police are already on her tail. Her live-in boyfriend, Cal, is at home as Jo tries to collect cash, her passport and a few things. Cal is confused if not a bit angry...

WOW! A lot of entertainment and twists - yet this is just the start! A fast-paced book with an interesting premise. - This is one you do not want to miss!

Many Thanks to Thomas & Mercer, Publishers, and NetGalley for a superb read!