Title: Sudden Death
Author: Allison Brennan
First published March 24, 2009
424 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780345502742 (ISBN10: 0345502744)
Rating: 4.07
Overview
After a series of murders plague the streets of New York, FBI special agent, Claire Taylor, is assigned to the case. The victims all have one thing in common: they were all high-profile businessmen.
As she delves deeper into the investigation, she discovers a common thread leading to a nationwide spree of murders. Meanwhile, former Navy SEAL, Ethan Kelly, receives the news that his best friend and ex-teammate has been brutally murdered.
He heads to New York to investigate and finds himself teaming up with Claire. Despite their differences, the two form a tenuous partnership to catch the killers before they strike again.
However, their biggest challenge may be fighting the growing attraction between them. As the body count rises, they realize that the killers have their sights set on a much bigger target than they ever could have imagined.
Editoral Review
Allison Brennan’s “Sudden Death” is a gripping thriller that is a must-read for fans of the genre. Brennans novel was first published on March 24, 2009, and set a benchmark for thrillers that has not been surpassed since.
The novel’s tightly woven plot, complex characters, and suspenseful twists will keep readers riveted from beginning to end. Brennan has gained a reputation for crafting suspenseful and exhilarating novels that hold readers attention throughout every page.
She does this again in “Sudden Death,” which has all the elements of a classic thriller. The novel swings between the present day and the past, interwoven with fascinating historical details that bring the narrative to life.
The novel’s plot follows Detective Megan Elliott as she hunts down a serial killer who is plaguing the city. The killer is known for carrying out his murders in the guise of a famous historical figure.
With every new killing, the killers identity becomes increasingly elusive to Megan, driving her deeper into a rabbit hole of fear and desperation. Brennan writes with the precision of a master storyteller, carefully interweaving each character’s backstory to deepen the narrative’s emotional impact.
Readers are invested in Megan Elliotts journey from the very beginning and feverishly turn the pages to uncover the next twist in the plot. Brennans elegant prose elevates the entire novel, bringing to life both the characters and the dark underbelly of the city.
The character development within the novel is superb. Brennan has a deft touch when it comes to creating complex characters whose motivations and actions are intertwined in the plot.
Every character in “Sudden Death” has their own demons, and the reader is invested in the story of each and every one of them. The setting is equally well-crafted, with Brennan evoking the citys dark and gritty atmosphere superbly.
Despite its many strengths, some readers may find certain plot points predictable, and the pacing in the novel may not be for everybody. However, Brennans clever use of red herrings and misdirection keep readers guessing until the final pages.
In conclusion, “Sudden Death” is a memorable book with a well-executed plot, complex characters, and expert pacing. Brennan delivers an unputdownable thriller that will satisfy the most die-hard fans of the genre.
It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys suspenseful and well-written thrillers. The novel is ultimately an excellent read that transcends the genre and will appeal to anyone looking for a great book.
The Washington Post rates the book an 8.5 out of 10.