Book Review: The Fallen

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Fallen     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon UK HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
T. Jefferson Parker
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Police Procedural
Morrow, Mar 2006, $24.95

San Diego homicide detective Robbie Brownlaw suffers a head injury that causes his senses to go out of whack. He suddenly can see the colors of someone’s emotions when he or she speaks. Adjusting to his new world is not easy until he begins logically to work out the patterns. Soon Brownlaw becomes adept at reading people especially knowing when they lie.

Back on the job, he and his partner, McKenzie Cortez investigate the murder of San Diego Ethics Authority Enforcement Unit investigator Garrett Asplundh, who was executed while waiting to meet with his estranged wife. Apparently Asplundh discovered major corruption amongst government officials and local financiers that made the investigator a prime target with numerous enemies all whom were motivated to see the victim eliminated. Robbie and McKenzie wonder who would actually resort to homicide.

This is a terrific police procedural starring a cop recovering from a terrible head trauma adjusting to a radical change in his senses while also struggling in his failing relationship with his wife. The story line strikes a fabulous balance as the investigation provides insight into the victim’s not so stellar life and into the Brownlaw’s personal side to include his wife and his sensorial adaptation on top of a strong inquiry. Far from falling, T. Jefferson Parker is rising to the top of the sub-genre with his latest Brownlaw case.

Harriet Klausner

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