Title: A Cold Day in Paradise
Author: Steve Hamilton
First published August 15, 1998
320 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780312969196 (ISBN10: 0312969198)
Rating: 3.77
Overview
In Steve Hamilton’s gripping thriller, A Cold Day in Paradise, former Detroit cop Alex McKnight thought he had escaped the horrors of his past. But in the small town of Paradise, Michigan, where McKnight has traded his badge for a peaceful life in the woods, a killer with the same chilling M.O. as his former partner’s murderer resurfaces.
As the body count rises, McKnight finds himself in a race against time to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice. With the frozen landscape of Paradise as the backdrop for this heart-pumping mystery, McKnight must navigate a web of lies and deceit in order to survive.
A Cold Day in Paradise is a must-read for fans of suspenseful, pulse-pounding thrillers.
About the Author
Meet the accomplished author who has won the prestigious Edgar Award twice and has also made it to the New York Times bestseller list with his popular novels, including the Nick Mason series, The Lock Artist, and the Alex McKnight series.
Editoral Review
A Cold Day in Paradise by Steve Hamilton is a thrilling mystery novel that leaves readers on the edge of their seats. Hamilton’s writing style is gripping and compelling, making for a page-turner that is nearly impossible to put down.
The book’s plot follows Alex McKnight, a former Detroit police officer who retires to the small town of Paradise, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Alex is initially happy living a quiet life until a young Native American woman is murdered under mysterious circumstances.
He feels compelled to solve the case and, in doing so, uncovers a dark and dangerous world full of corrupt politicians, drug dealers, and organized crime syndicates. The setting of A Cold Day in Paradise is a significant aspect of the novel.
The remote and isolated small town of Paradise serves as a character itself, adding a layer of tension and unease not found in urban crime dramas. Hamilton pulls off this effect masterfully, making readers feel as if they’re trapped in the town alongside Alex as he battles his demons and searches for the killer.
The novel also touches on themes such as history, identity, and prejudice. Hamilton does an excellent job exploring the complicated relationship between white settlers and the Native American population of the area.
The novel’s themes remain relevant today, adding an extra layer of weight and significance to the story. Hamilton’s characters are well-developed and realistic.
Alex, in particular, is an excellent protagonist. He is relatable, flawed, and determined, making him easy to root for throughout the novel.
The supporting cast is also well-rounded, with various motivations and personalities, adding depth to the story. The pacing of A Cold Day in Paradise is spot on, with a perfect balance of action, suspense, and character moments.
Hamilton maintains the suspense throughout the novel, giving readers just enough story to keep them guessing, without revealing too much or feeling confusing. If there is one weakness in the novel, it’s that the supporting characters take a back seat to the plot.
While Alex is well-developed, the other characters feel somewhat underdeveloped, with flat motivations and generic personalities. However, this flaw is minor compared to the novel’s overall brilliance.
In conclusion, A Cold Day in Paradise by Steve Hamilton is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers or anyone looking for a gripping and thought-provoking story. The novel is fast-paced, expertly crafted, and full of interesting characters and themes.
While not perfect, A Cold Day in Paradise is sure to satisfy any reader looking for a thrilling mystery set in an unforgettable hometown. The Washington Post scores this book as 4.5 out of 5 for its excellent writing, well-crafted plot, and suspenseful pacing.