One Split Second by Robert DugoniMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Robert Dugoni rarely disappoints with his crime and legal thrillers. This is another excellent crime procedure novel combined with some courtroom drama.
Jenny is the Sheriff of Klickitat County and her term is ending. She lost the election to Beaumont who is to take over as the next Sheriff in a few weeks. Jenny gets a call from Alvarez and he says there is something her dad Buzz would have been interested in. Alvarez is a Vietnam veteran and under treatment for mental health issues. Her dad Buzz died many years back but had told her to help Alvarez if he calls. Alvarez was a person of interest in the disappearance of 15-year-old Jacquelyn Parker 45 years back. Jacquelyn disappeared from a place she was baby sitting and was never seen again. Jenny goes out to Alvarez’s place is very bad weather. Near his trailer she thinks she hears shots and someone rushes towards her. She shoots and finds it is Alvarez. He has no gun, and now she is not sure if what she heard was a gunshot or lightning. She goes on leave and calls Tracy and her husband Dan for help. Tracy and Jenny know each other since long (an earlier book in the series - 'In the Clearing' is also set in Stoneridge, Washington).
This book has a significant role for Dan as he represents Jenny as her attorney. Tracy, as always, is methodical and astute in uncovering the mystery behind Alvarez’s death. There are many other characters, all of whom fit well in the story. The characters and procedures have always been the strength of the series, and this book is no different. It has the added bonus of some good courtroom drama. I could see that a good amount of research has gone into building the procedures (which the author covers in the afterword). I would say the last sections could have some minor improvements, but overall this is a very engaging novel, which I loved.
There is a touch of sadness in the afterword, as the author writes of losing both parents. He mentions that he got the idea for the kidnapping of a young girl after reading of Evelyn Hartley who has kidnapped in 1953.
Much recommended!
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer and the author for a free electronic review copy.
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