"The Last Commandment" by Scott Shepherd
It's Christmas in London, but the anticipation and sparkle of the season
escapes Scotland Yard detective, Austin Grant. Unfulfilled dreams and
regrets haunt him every day since his treasured wife, Allison, died of
cancer.
After the New Year, the respected Commander will retire from a distinguished
career that often took him away from his family. What's left, are bittersweet
memories with pride in a job well done. Austin knows he made a difference
with a devoted wife always by his side. But the unexplained, strained
relationship he now has with his only daughter, Rachel, a shrewd, investigative
reporter living in New York City, continues to puzzle him, considering the
closeness they once shared.
Before he leaves a stellar career behind, dire news brings him back to the
center of a hideous crime spree. An elusive, serial killer has randomly
murdered three, innocent victims in London. The assassin then crosses the
sea to viciously take the life of a priest inside the magnificent St. Patrick's
Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan. And the details of his demise, just like
the others, are chilling.
The disturbed killer leaves a distinctive calling card. Each victim has a set
of Roman numerals gruesomely etched into their foreheads corresponding
to an offense against one of the Ten Commandments. Four down, six to go.
It's a race against time to warn potential targets that a devious mind is intent
on eliminating sinners one by one with The Holy Bible as witness to the crimes.
When travels take Austin to New York City, he meets another capable cop,
John Frankel, who's introduced to a certain hot-shot reporter close to
Austin's heart. As Rachel becomes a vital part of the investigation, the wall
of the father/daughter estrangement begins to crumble. An incredulous truth,
lurking behind painful secrets, puts everyone in peril, as a deranged individual
inches closer to the end goal.
Accomplished screenwriter, Scott Shepherd, scores a hit with his debut novel,
creating dynamic characters, and heart-pounding scenarios. Centered around
a vulnerable, but likeable cop, the protagonist is someone that fans will
undoubtedly want to follow in future adventures. Brisk chapters, gory but
addictive, and an enticing plot (with a touch of romance), make this mystery
thriller a welcome addition to your reading list.
Check it out when it's released on July 13th.
