Devil Within
Detective Nathan Parker, #2
by
James L’Etoile
I couldn’t put this one down!
Devil Within is the second novel in author James L’Etoile’s Detective Nathan Parker series and is a tense, riveting follow-up to last year’s debut, Dead Drop. In this new story, time has passed since the events of the previous book. Nathan has fostered the young Miguel, who is fast approaching his 18th birthday and attending community college. But when an old enemy comes back on the scene, the years fall away for Nathan, and he’s ready to finally reap justice on behalf of his murdered work partner.
Detective Nathan Parker, the head of his unit, is a professional through and through. He’s a kind and thoughtful man and, like all parents, is conflicted about how to properly relate to the almost-adult Miguel, especially when he gets involved with Immigrant Coalition, an activist group gaining a reputation for some shady activities. Nathan’s past experiences and relationship with Miguel have also made him see immigrant issues through new eyes.
The story hits the ground running, and there’s no stopping. Panic is near the breaking point in Phoenix as the Sun Valley Sniper kills one seemingly random victim after another. Many characters from the previous book return, including odd duck Billie Carson. Numerous new faces appear, too, many of whom are recent immigrants or help newcomers settle in or find friends and family. The events of the book offer a window into the unimaginable hardships and traumas those seeking asylum, or a better life for themselves and their families, endure to find safety and peace. I couldn’t put this book down and read for long hours, needing to know what would happen next.
Phoenix and the surrounding areas are the perfect setting, vividly described with mentions of specific places and streets as Parker heads out to chase down leads and suspects. Check out the intriguing book cover photo. As for the plot, just when I thought the investigation would go one way, a surprise twist or a ruled-out suspect sent things in another direction. I did not guess the truth until it was revealed.
I recommend DEVIL WITHIN to mystery readers who enjoy tense, race-against-the-clock thrill rides.
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