Title: Hell Gate
Author: Linda Fairstein
First published March 9, 2010
11 pages, Audio CD
ISBN: 9780143145325 (ISBN10: 0143145320)
Rating: 3.84
Overview
Manhattan’s political scene is one filled with secrets and corruption. In Linda Fairstein’s Hell Gate, Assistant DA Alex Cooper and her NYPD team are thrust into a world of illegal immigrants and sex scandals.
When a shipwreck filled with human cargo is discovered, Alex begins to unravel a web of deceit that threatens to bring down a promising politician. However, as she delves deeper into the case, Alex discovers a connection between the murdered lover of the congressman and a young woman who died in the shipwreck.
Both bear the same tattoo, the mark of the mastermind behind the illegal trafficking operation. As the stakes continue to rise, Alex must race against time to uncover the truth before the city’s political landscape is forever changed.
About the Author
Linda Fairstein is a highly respected legal expert in the United States, specializing in crimes of violence against women and children. She was the head of the sex crimes unit of the Manhattan District Attorney’s office for 26 years, from 1976 to 2002.
In addition to her legal career, she is also a successful author of crime novels featuring Manhattan prosecutor Alexandra Cooper.
Cooper, who goes by the nickname ‘Coop’, is in charge of the Special Victims Unit of the Office and works closely with NYPD detectives Mike Chapman and Mercer Wallace. DEVIL’S BRIDGE, the 17th book in the bestselling series, was released in paperback in June 2016, while the 18th novel, KILLER LOOK, is set to debut on July 26th.
This year, Fairstein will introduce a new series for young readers between the ages of 8 and 12. Her protagonist, Devlin Quick, is a kid sleuth and will appear in INTO THE LION’S DEN in November 2016.
The series pays tribute to Nancy Drew, whose books inspired Fairstein’s careers in both crime fiction and law.
Fairstein graduated with honors from Vassar College in 1969 and from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1972. She began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney at the Manhattan District Attorney’s office in 1972 and was promoted to head of the sex crimes unit in 1976.
During her tenure, she prosecuted several high-profile cases, including the “Preppy Murder” case against Robert Chambers in 1986.
After leaving the District Attorney’s office in 2002, Fairstein continued to consult, write, and lecture while serving as a sex crimes expert for various print and television media outlets. She is frequently called upon to give her opinion on high-profile prosecutions, including Michael Jackson’s molestation charges in 2004, Kobe Bryant’s sexual assault charges, and Scott Peterson’s trial.
Fairstein is also a sought-after speaker on issues related to domestic abuse.
Fairstein and her husband, Michael Goldberg, reside in Manhattan and on Martha’s Vineyard. Her novels draw on her legal expertise and her love for the rich history of New York City.
Editoral Review
In Linda Fairsteins Hell Gate, published on March 9, 2010, readers are treated to another thrilling adventure with Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Alex Cooper. Fairstein has made a name for herself in the crime genre with her thrilling and suspenseful tales of the justice systems attempts to bring criminals to justice.
In her usual style, she combines her extensive knowledge of the inner workings of the criminal justice system with a gripping narrative to make Hell Gate a delightful read. Hell Gate begins with ADA Cooper being given the case of a missing woman whose body is later found on a private island that is currently the subject of a heated legal battle.
Coopers investigation quickly leads her to the troubled and complex history of the island, which is known for its association with the supernatural and shady dealings. Set in New York City, Hell Gate is filled with historical and cultural significance, as the story takes readers on a tour of some of the citys most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
The descriptions of the city and its people are vivid and masterfully written, pulling readers directly into the world of the novel. Fairstein does an excellent job in using the vibrant setting to create a sense of urgency and foreboding throughout the novel.
What sets Hell Gate apart from other crime thrillers is the attention to detail given to character development. The main characters are not simply vessels for the plot; they are fully realized individuals with flaws and likable qualities that make them relatable to readers.
The growing relationship between Cooper and New York City Police Detective Mike Chapman is a highlight of the book. Fairstein masterfully builds their relationship in small, organic steps that feel true to life, creating a genuine emotional connection between the reader and characters.
Hell Gate is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow in parts, and some plot threads take too long to develop.
Additionally, Fairsteins writing style can sometimes feel stiff and formal, which may not appeal to all readers. Overall, Hell Gate is a worthwhile read for fans of crime thrillers and fans of Fairsteins previous works.
She continues to showcase her strengths as a writer and storyteller, emphasizing the relatable characters and twisting plot to create a truly thrilling reading experience. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
If you are a fan of crime thrillers or legal dramas, Hell Gate is a recommended read that will entertain and satisfy readers looking for an enthralling, well-written novel.
