Review: Cold Pursuit

The McMichael and the Braga families have been feuding for decades; ever since Pete Braga claimed self-defence for the murder of Toms grandfather. Shortly after Pete got off, his thirteen year old son Victor was severely beaten leaving him with a mental age of ten. It was widely known but never proven that Toms father, Gabriel McMichael, was the perpetrator. Pete Braga was brutally bashed to death in his home, the victim of a supposed burglary gone wrong. His granddaughter Patricia and her husband, Garland Hansen, noticed several works of art and other expensive items missing from the house. Petes body was found by his beautiful nurse/caretaker, Sally Rainwater, who called the Police and immediately became their first suspect. Tom McMichaels homicide team catches the case and Tom makes the decision to find the killer despite the blood feud between his Irish family and the Portuguese Bragas.

Tom finds himself believing in Sally and breaks one of the cardinal rules of policing by getting involved with her while she is a suspect. His partner Hector Paz is not quite so sure about her and sets about trying to prove her guilt. Tom moves in on other suspects by questioning the rest of the Braga family, employees from Petes car sales business, and members of the other organisations Pete was involved with. Added to this are some missing letters Pete sent to his lawyers that have instructions regarding his estate. The investigation expands further when it is discovered that Petes car sales business is being used as a front for illegal activities, and that he and his son had frequently used the same prostitute who cant be found.

T Jefferson Parker is one of the few crime writers today who can keep his readers equally happy with a stand alone novel as they are with one of his Merci Raybourn series novels. Parkers strongpoint is his strong well developed characters that come alive and make the reader get involved in their lives. I feel like I know Tom McMichael and I am already hoping Parker may revisit the character in a future book. Set in San Diego, a change from Parkers usual Orange County streets, Parker captures the atmosphere of the city and its diverse elements. The plot twists and turns leaving you stunned with each new development and surprised by a shocking ending. This is one of my top reads this year. I highly recommend it.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Jaynie - Australia

Book Review: Cold Pursuit