Book Review: The First 48

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The First 48     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Tim Green
Class/Genre:   Mystery
Warner, Feb 2004, $24.95, 318 pp.

Washington Post investigative reporter Jane Redmond uncovers a very complex abuse and corruption scam that leads back to US Senator Michael Gleason, the same man who destroyed her father Tom. Years ago Tom was a hot shot prosecutor, but powerbroker Gleason smashed his career. Though revenge would be sweet, Jane knows that her story is much more important.

However, someone kidnaps Jane while she is jogging. Tom realizes someone abducted his beloved daughter. He knows from his law enforcement days that THE FIRST 48 hours matter in a rescue because after that the victim is dead. So Tom and his partner Mike Tubbs knowing it is late in the fourth quarter take what they believe is the shortest route to her, kidnapping and torturing Gleason. Will he inform them what happened to Jane and where she is or will the senator hold out until time expires?

Though typical of a Tim Green suspense thriller, fans will enjoy this terse tale due to an interesting cast. The delightful dynamic duo makes the novel hum as ethic aside they know that the means is irrelevant when the clock ticks on life and death matters. Jane is courageous as she tries to escape her abductees and “Deep Throat” is an interesting character who is a show me the money soul. Though Gleason is too odious and nasty villain and there is a leap of major acceptance, suspense thriller fans will appreciate this exhilarating Potomac quest and counter-quest.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner