Title: Blood Ties
Author: Lori G. Armstrong
First published May 1, 2005
373 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781932815320 (ISBN10: 1932815325)
Rating: 3.84
Overview
Julie Collins is a secretary at the Bear Butte County Sheriff’s office, still reeling from the unsolved murder of her half-brother. Her cynicism towards the justice system is only alleviated by her part-time gig as a PI with her childhood friend, Kevin Wells.
When the body of a young girl is found, Julie believes this case will finally get the attention it deserves. But when Kevin is hired to investigate the girl’s last few days, Julie finds herself drawn into a case with ties to her past that she’s not ready to confront.
As she digs deeper, Julie discovers unsettling family secrets that some will kill to keep hidden. In Blood Ties, Lori G.
Armstrong weaves a gripping tale of murder, betrayal, and the dark secrets that can tear a family apart.
About the Author
Lori Armstrong has received the prestigious Shamus Award twice, courtesy of the Private Eye Writers of America. She is also a New York Times bestselling author, writing under the pseudonym Lorelei James, and is known for her contemporary western erotic romance novels.
Her books have achieved critical acclaim, receiving nominations for the High Plains Book Award and the Daphne du Maurier Award, as well as winning the Willa Cather Literary Award. Armstrong resides in western South Dakota.
Editoral Review
Lori G. Armstrong’s Blood Ties is a thrilling crime novel that takes readers on a dangerous journey through South Dakota’s badlands.
Armstrong, a celebrated author of numerous mystery and thriller novels, has crafted a suspenseful and captivating story that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The book tells the story of Julie Collins, a private investigator who returns to her hometown in South Dakota to care for her ailing father.
But when a young Native American woman is murdered on the nearby reservation, Julie is drawn into the case and must confront the dark secrets of her own past. Armstrong’s writing style is gritty and realistic, immersing the reader in the harsh and unforgiving environment of the South Dakota badlands.
She also skillfully weaves in themes of racism, corruption, and the complicated nature of family dynamics. The characters in Blood Ties are complex and well-developed, particularly Julie Collins, who struggles to come to terms with her troubled past while navigating the dangerous world of private investigating.
The supporting cast, including Julie’s father and her ex-boyfriend, are also well-rounded and add depth to the story. The pacing of the book is excellent, with Armstrong expertly building tension and suspense as the investigation unfolds.
The plot twists and turns, always keeping the reader guessing and engaged. While Blood Ties is a work of fiction, it sheds light on the real-life issues facing Native American communities in South Dakota, particularly the lack of investigation and resolution for the many crimes committed against them.
Overall, Blood Ties is a gripping and thought-provoking crime novel that will appeal to fans of the genre. While there are some minor flaws in the book, such as occasional pacing issues and some clichd dialogue, these are outweighed by the strong writing, complex characters, and engaging plot.
The book is recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling and well-crafted crime novel, particularly those interested in stories that shine a light on important social issues. The Washington Post gives Blood Ties a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars.
