3.5 Stars
The novel focuses on a murder and kidnapping case. A pregnant woman is murdered and her almost-full-term baby missing after having been removed from the womb. The case resonates with Sam, who is just about to begin her maternity leave, so she is determined to find justice. Because of her late-stage pregnancy, Sam is given desk work, but what she uncovers proves crucial to solving the case, though not before she puts herself and her unborn child in danger.
People who have read the series will find much that is familiar. Sam remains as feisty and stubborn as ever, and her wit and sarcasm have not diminished. Events follow the established pattern: there’s the inevitable confrontation with her misogynistic boss, and though she is somewhat sidelined, Sam is again the one who steers the investigation into the right direction so the perpetrator is apprehended. There is also some focus on Sam’s personal life, this time her relationship with her child’s father and her struggles with various changes happening in her life.
Having read all the previous books, I predicted the ending. After the reveal of the perpetrator in The Ringmaster, it is not unexpected that there be a direct connection to Sam. The motive of the killer is credible, but the circumstances of the crimes (place and method) are not so.
What I was looking for and did not find in this book is an explanation for the bombshell at the end of Bound. There is a reference to Sam’s mother being required to live with her son and daughter-in-law, but there’s no explanation as to the reasoning behind this “consequence." I can understand the author not wanting to directly mention the shocking revelation in the previous book and thereby spoil it for those who have not read it, but she should have addressed this issue for readers who have followed the series and would reasonably expect some explanation.
With its short, snappy chapters, this is a quick read. I certainly found it kept my interest on my morning walks.
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