Really enjoyed reading Asesina. It was very engaging and I had a hard time putting it down. There are several surprising twists and turns as this complex mystery unfolds. The characters were appealing and author offers fascinating detail. As a new writer, Mr. Keffeler is off to a strong start. Can’t wait for his next book!

Rafael Garza, MLS, BA
Literary Review Consultant

One of my colleagues suggested that I try this new novel, given that I was looking for something new and fresh. It certainly fit the bill. Keffeler has put together a different style of healthcare thriller that definitely holds your interest, while offering a "how-to" for single payer medicine. First, the positives: A modish, leading edge protagonist in Angel, the asesina; plus an entertaining, off-the-rails character in Dr. Ernie Girard; and finally an honest portrayal of a cerebral Mexican investigator in Blas Mondragon. Other pluses: Beautiful opening "set piece" that pulls you right in; a textured plot that requires the reader to think; and the  interesting backdrop of Medicare for All in California. Negatives: the book needs fewer characters plus more depth about the healthcare piece (some may disagree, but I'm a political junkie).

I rate it a 4.7 out of 5. Would recommend that you read it. 

#Garza #HipReviews

Reina Gutierrez
#Asesina #NetGalley

Finally a novel about a real Latina assassin who doesn't have a mentor or boyfriend or sidekick, and isn't a victim or some ridiculous graphic murderess. A professional like so many of the Anglo, male professional killers that jam are reading lists. This novel is not for everyone. Some will be put off by the asesina's independence and self-reliance, and the way she handles herself. But I loved it. This novel offers multiple character perspectives which requires you to think--remember how to do that? Keffeler knows the border. His desert terrain descriptions are beautiful. I look forward to the return of Angel in his next novel.

Intriguing . . . very intriguing story. My review crew pulled a threesome on this novel last night and each of us liked it, which doesn't happen much. First, a Sub-Zero cool asesina named Angel who's wicked with a scalpel, but she's not some weird vengeance killer. Second, the author breaks all the rules with crosscut sub-plots that make for a handful for the reader, but well worth it. And third--its LA, baby. The author gets it right, every detail. Seems his publisher has gone all in with pre-release promo, covering SoCal media with ARCs. Hot book, buy or steal it. Stay safe.

Peace Out
Gonzo Reader

More 4.5 out of 5 stars. Surprisingly strong debut novel that's very contemporary and well-written. Keffeler has done his research; his descriptions of the Chihuahuan Desert and Los Angeles are vivid, accurate and fascinating. Nice to see the nuanced development of a more modern-day female assassin in Angel, which will attract a younger readership. I enjoyed the entire cast of characters--if a bit eclectic. The parallel narratives make for a more intelligent read that will challenge the readers, but Keffeler ties everything together nicely in the mid-part of the book. I will recommend buying this novel for my library's collection.

Asesina is fascinating! Highly recommended!!  I couldn't put this book down, it's a wonderful binge read.  So much suspense and so many awesome story lines.  Mr. Keffeler has a phenomenal gift for detail.  Angel and the other main characters came so much to life that I'm hoping the author will arrange for us to all have cocktails soon.  Gratifying entertainment with a magnificent ending.  Bravo!

Outstanding. I usually review health-related nonfiction, but this novel was recommended to be by a friend in the media who said it was gathering some strong sentiment in LA. I can see why. You can read through it quickly, which I did since I'm sheltering in place. The novel has strong, contemporary characters with a slightly complicated plot that comes together nicely. The author's single-payer chops make the story unique and very readable. Will recommend it to my clients. 

Josh Satz
Healthcare Strategies Institute

#Asesina #NetGalley

Binge-read this debut thriller and it was excellent. Where to begin? Angel, the asesina, is a cutting-edge character that the author has developed brilliantly. A loner--it's all her--she's on the move from Chapter One. Dr. Ernie Girard is a wild-ride neurosurgeon that one weirdly begins to like as the novel progresses; and the author's use of California on Medicare for All is incredibly revealing. Good stuff. Stick with the different plot lines--they all come together in Part Two of the book--and the ending has a nice payoff.

Guy Deeds

When I read the description of this book I thought, oh no I’m going to be up all night as it sounded as if it would be a page turner. . Unfortunately, this book had the opposite effect and I could not stay awake. I was not able to connect or relate with any of the characters. I felt the story line has been done many times before and overall predictable. Nothing grabbed my attention or left me wondering what was going to happen next. I appreciate the chance to read it and wish the author the best.

Not for me. Didn’t connect with the main character. I didn’t find any depth in the story. 

Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this title.