Book Review: The Suspect

[theliteraryadventures]

TITLE: The Suspect
AUTHOR: L.R. Wright
SERIES: Karl Alberg (#1)
RELEASES: June 9, 2008 by Felony & Mayhem Press
GENRE: Mystery, Thriller, Cozy Mystery
AGE RANGE: Adult
RATING: 1 out 5
SYNOPSIS: In this, L.R. Wright's first mystery novel, we are introduced to RCMP Staff Sergeant Karl Alberg; and so begins the highly-acclaimed series featuring Karl and librarian Cassandra Mitchell.

At eighty, George Wilcox hardly expected to crown his life by committing a murder. It had happened so quickly, so easily, so unexpectedly in the sleepy town on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia: a near-perfect crime that wraps Wilcox in a web of guilt, honor, and secrets of the past. An unprovoked act that soon binds him to the warmhearted town librarian, Cassandra Mitchell, and her new romantic interest, zealous Staff Sergeant Alberg. Together, this troubled trio find themselves caught up in a crime whose solution transcends the logic of pure justice.



REVIEW: The Suspect manages to be slow despite its short length. The only reason I read this book is that my favorite actress stars in a TV show based on it.

After a lifetime of animosity and wrongdoing, elderly George kills his neighbor. In the first chapter, we are introduced to the murder; the story revolves around whether or not the investigator can prove that George committed the crime, and whether or not he should arrest the otherwise harmless and likable older man. This story won an Edgar award, probably because of its unusual perspective, but I wasn't a big fan of it as a mystery.

This unconventional approach removes the typical suspense of uncovering the murderer's identity, focusing instead on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the investigator. The narrative delves into the complexities of justice, exploring whether the truth should always lead to punishment or if there are situations that warrant a different kind of resolution. While this perspective is unique, it may not satisfy readers who prefer the traditional whodunit style of mystery.

The book might appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories and moral quandaries. Those interested in the psychological aspects of crime and the nuanced exploration of justice will find the narrative compelling. Additionally, readers who appreciate a slower, more contemplative pace in their mysteries might find this unconventional approach refreshing.

Ultimately, I wasn't fond of it. While the story's unique perspective on justice and moral dilemmas may appeal to some, it falls short for readers seeking a traditional mystery experience.