Saturday, May 26, 2018

Review: Jacqueline Willoughby

Jacqueline Willoughby Jacqueline Willoughby by Schuyler Randall
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This novella was short and sweet. The writing style was simplistic using basic declarative sentences and there wasn't much if any descriptive elements or flowery dialogue. Occasionally the author went off on a short tangent incorporating items that didn't really flow with the overall story arc. Overall it was straightforward and easy to read, although, there might be a little too much cursing for some younger readers.

The story itself was interesting. After the unpopular demolition of a housing development to make way for an auto-parts megastore comes a series of murders. FBI agents Stephens and McAlester are sent to investigate and despite what appears to be a biblical connection to the Ten Commandments they become convinced that there's something more going on. Sure, the bodies are posed, sure there are messages proclaiming their sins. But still...

An interview with a dotty, old, lady sends them on the trail of a very rare book. Is this antique volume somehow connected to the crimes? Will they discover the secret the serial killer is hiding before it's too late?

Narrator Scott Ellis did a great job voicing the story. There were a couple of sections where the sound effects, such as a voice on the phone sounding like it was speaking into a tunnel, got talked over by the main narration. Not Ellis' fault, that was poor sound editing.

I could give a recommendation for someone who likes mysteries and who is looking for a short read or listen. It's not that difficult to figure out who the murderer is but his motive is a little more hidden.

I requested and received this book for free from Audiobookboom in return for my promise of an honest and unbiased review. 3.5 stars.

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