Note: I received this book under the initial title, “Girl Walking Alone.” (I like the new one better!)
Right from the beginning, this book was different from many other crime thrillers that I have read, mainly due to the protagonist (Jessie) being a reporter rather than a member of law enforcement. That alone made the story more potentially accessible to readers, as there was not a lot of police procedure to wade through.
Jessie also has unique insight throughout the investigation as her story provides not only as a backdrop but also as a catalyst for events to move forward. It is an interesting balance that serves the plot well. Jessie is wrapped up enough in her own experiences that the reader, along with some characters, questions whether she is objective enough to get the story accurate.
Overall, the plot reads more like a television show or movie – the action skims along, discoveries are made and followed, and there aren’t a whole lot of inner monologues or deep-thinking. There were a few times that Jessie’s “thoughts” seemed repetitive (the constant mention of the tv-movie of her experience is an example).
I did feel like there were some uneven spots. Some events had a lot of detail, and others (that seemed important) barely got a mention. There were also some passages that seemed less well-written, with simple language. Those stuck out because so much of the novel was crisp.
There were more than a few good twists in the story, but also a few red herrings that went nowhere. I liked the twists, did not care for off-handed disposal of a couple of points (especially when they were prefaced by “we may never know” after they appeared to be vital to the plot).
Overall, however, it was a good story with some interesting plot turns and a mostly satisfying ending. Plus, I liked reading about my old stomping grounds of NYC! I look forward to reading more of Jessie Tucker’s investigations.
Author Bio
I am a New York City author who writes mystery thrillers for Bookouture about newspaper reporter Jessie Tucker. Coming this winter…THE SILENT VICTIM
Email: DanaPerryAuthor@yahoo.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanaPerryAuthor
Facebook: @danaperryauthor
