**3-Star Review: *Spectrum* by Alan Jacobson**

*Spectrum* by Alan Jacobson is a fast-paced thriller that revolves around a gripping investigation into a series of murders linked to a shadowy organization involved in high-stakes human experimentation. The story follows FBI agent Karen Vail as she navigates a complex web of intrigue and danger, uncovering unsettling truths about the organization and its ties to powerful figures.

Jacobson’s writing is engaging, with a strong focus on character development and a tightly woven plot that keeps readers on their toes. The pacing is brisk, making it a page-turner that pulls you into the action quickly. Vail is a well-drawn protagonist, blending intelligence and determination with personal struggles, which adds depth to her character.

However, while the premise is intriguing, some plot elements feel formulaic and may not offer many surprises for seasoned thriller readers. The numerous characters and shifting perspectives can also become a bit confusing, making it difficult to keep track of everyone involved. Additionally, certain subplots may seem underdeveloped, leaving some storylines feeling unresolved.

Overall, *Spectrum* is an entertaining thriller that delivers on suspense and action, making it a solid read for fans of the genre. While it may not break new ground, it effectively engages readers with its strong lead and gripping narrative.

I received a free copy from NetGalley. I have not read others in this series and this one read just fine as a stand alone. In fact, it fits as a novel as much as it fits as a crime thriller. Because it covers twenty years, and has a few chapters that go back even farther, it was interesting to watch policing and the world change.

A riveting drama that held me captive as the story moved forward. The dialogue set the pacing. The plot was tightly woven to keep me interested in all aspects in the telling of this drama.

(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)

New York City: home to world-renowned museums, theater, restaurants, iconic sports franchises. Central Park. Wall Street. And an infamous serial killer who’s terrorized the Big Apple for decades.
The year is 1995 and the NYPD has just graduated a promising new patrol officer named Karen Vail. The rookie’s first day on the job is anything but easy when she finds herself at the crime scene of a young woman murdered in an unusual manner. Vail is unsure of what she’s looking at or what it means—but it’s a case that will weigh on her mind for nearly twenty years.
As the years pass, Vail’s career takes unexpected twists and turns—as does the case that’s come to be known as Hades. Now a skilled FBI profiler, will Vail be in a better position to catch the killer? Or will Hades prove to be Karen Vail’s hell on earth?

I have read the first few Karen Vail stories but missed the last couple - but not to fear, that isn't even a problem as this book gives us a bit of a timeline for Karen's rise through the ranks and gives us some very good detail about her career.

This timeline happens to coincide with a rather nasty serial killer who is stalking the streets of New York City. Apart from being the epitome of locations for crime fiction, I loved the sense of place the author brings to his story. While it did make the start of the book a bit slow, action-wise, it really does pick up in the second half.

The best thing, though, about this story is the author's treatment of Karen - she is a female rising though the ranks of the NYPD. She doesn't have it easy, she is treated poorly at times, but her strength of character, and obvious skills, come to the fore. She is one of the best female crime characters I have read.

The plot itself is tremendously good, even if it does sound a little mundane. Don't let the blurb put you off. A very well-written story that deserves to be read!


Paul
ARH

Sorry I was not able to read you book but it went to archive before I could get to it. Sorry once again.