Title: Her Final Breath
Author: Carolyn Arnold
Series: Detective Amanda Steele #7
Release Date: February 17, 2023
Length: 323 pages
Genre: Mystery/ Thriller
***My Review***
In the book, readers are introduced to the world of Detective Amanda Steele and her partner Detective Trent Stenson. They are back working together on a new case after a past awkward situation. They are investigating a disturbing crime where the bodies of a mother and daughter have been discovered buried in a park.
Domestic violence seems to be a likely motive, but Trent’s personal history with protecting a domestic violence victim may affect his ability to work the case objectively. As the investigation progresses, the details become increasingly gruesome and Amanda tries to keep her partner’s involvement in check. The pair must race against time to solve the case before more harm is done.
The story deals with the sensitive subject matter, such as addiction and domestic violence, with sensitivity and compassion. Arnold portrays the victims as more than just their addiction and humanizes them to show that they deserve justice and respect.
The plot of “Her Final Breath” is full of suspense, and the investigation of the murder of a mother and daughter is interwoven with a number of emotional themes. The detectives, Amanda and Trent, become increasingly suspicious of Jill’s husband Roy, who is also a police officer, but the question remains whether he is responsible for the murders or not. Meanwhile, the story also delves into the personal lives of the detectives, with Amanda struggling to balance her work and her role as a mother to her adopted daughter Zoe, while Trent is forced to confront his own past experiences with domestic abuse.
The novel does an excellent job of building tension as the investigation progresses and the clues are gradually revealed. The subplot involving Amanda’s family life adds an emotional depth to the story and makes the reader care about the characters on a personal level. The appearance of another grave with similarities to the first murder case raises the stakes, and the detectives must race against time to solve the case before another tragedy occurs.
The novel also explores the idea of whether justice can be served for victims of addiction and domestic abuse, and whether redemption is possible for those who have committed heinous crimes. The themes are handled with sensitivity and compassion, and the novel raises important questions about the criminal justice system and the treatment of vulnerable individuals.
The characters in the book are well-developed and have complex personalities. Amanda Steele is a strong and determined investigator, but also has her demons to fight, making her a flawed but relatable character. The other characters, including her colleagues, are also well-drawn, and their interactions feel authentic and believable.
The pacing of the book is excellent, with each chapter leaving the reader wanting more. Arnold builds tension and suspense throughout the story, creating a sense of unease that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is complex, with many twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the end.
Furthermore, the novel explores themes of redemption and justice. Many of the characters are struggling with their past mistakes and looking for a way to make amends, including the killer himself, who is haunted by his past. The story raises questions about whether redemption is possible for someone who has committed such heinous crimes. Detective Amanda Steele is committed to upholding the law and bringing criminals to justice, believing that everyone is entitled to their day in court.
As I already mentioned, the novel presents challenging themes that may evoke strong emotions in readers, such as domestic violence and murder. Despite the absence of explicit descriptions, the gravity of the situation is palpable, and the characters’ emotional responses add to the weight of the story. The tension builds with each chapter, keeping readers engaged and invested in the investigation. The urgency of the detectives’ quest for justice is evident and compelling, drawing readers deeper into the narrative. The combination of emotional themes and a gripping plot creates a reading experience that is both moving and thrilling.
Overall, “Her Final Breath” is a thrilling and well-crafted crime thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy police procedural thrillers. Carolyn Arnold’s skillful writing and vision are evident in this book, making it a highly recommended read for anyone who enjoys the genre.