Where should I start with the review? Let me explain my addiction to crime novels which have no barricading in place not that it should be, but sharing how important it is for the bigot like me. This is the fifth book in M.W. Craven’s Washington Poe series, After reading all the previous parts, I had a good idea of what to expect from this instalment without any preconceived notions. I would admirably say that it is definitely worth the time.
The story has two intermingled cases that warrant Poe’s investigation team to get involved. The first case is the death of pathologist Estelle’s father, who is shot twice in the head, with a missing weapon and no proof of any outsider’s connection. Circumstantial evidence points directly at Estelle, who gets arrested for no fault of her own. The second case involves a scientist killer who poisons high-profile celebrities, sends them poems and flowers before executing them. Isn’t it interesting? Well, that’s what made me want to figure out what had happened: how both cases are related and who this botanist is. To find out more, check out this page-turner for all the answers.
I wonder how Craven’s imagination is bridged and brought to ink. Was the plot articulated prior to writing the scenarios and character developments? These are some of the questions that crossed my mind while reading this unimpaired novel. His writing in this one is beautifully crafted and feels like solving a great puzzle. The plot is tightly woven with many humorous elements that assist the story’s progression. This gave me enough freedom to enjoy the whole reading process; I couldn’t find any lag or boredom anywhere.
To wind up, this book will be a treat for the crime fiction aficionado. A gripping tale that is hard to sideline, with a fascinating storyline followed by rightful suspense insertion, twists and turns, and an appropriate dose of humor, fills all the gaps of a reader’s expectations, thus quenching their thirst for good. My rating for this book is 5 out of 5 for the amazing plot, thrilling details, hilarious conversations, and equally smart antagonist.
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