The Last Sinner by Lisa Jackson

*** Review ***

The Last Sinner by Lisa Jackson is a riveting and suspenseful thriller that takes readers on a dark and chilling journey through the streets of New Orleans. From the very first page, the tension is palpable as the notorious serial killer, Father John, thought to be deceased, resurfaces in a terrifying and twisted manner. The question of whether this is the genuine killer or a clever copycat only heightens the suspense, and the disturbing method involving prostitutes and rosary beads adds an extra layer of macabre to the narrative. The inclusion of a hundred-dollar bill with Ben Franklin’s eyes burned out serves as an eerie signature, leaving a haunting imprint on the killer’s twisted rituals.

Central to the narrative is the harrowing and brutal assault on Kristi Bentz, a resilient and tenacious woman who happens to be the daughter of the seasoned detective, Bentz, and is also an accomplished true crime writer in her own right. In a twist of fate, Kristi miraculously manages to survive the savage attack, but the tragedy deepens as her beloved husband, Jay, tragically loses his life in the process. The heinousness of this event sends shockwaves through the story, propelling Kristi on a relentless quest for justice and fueling her unwavering determination to uncover the truth behind the sinister forces at play.As the plot unfolds, the central question emerges: Was this attack the handiwork of Father John, or is there another malevolent force lurking in the shadows of New Orleans, driven by a deeply personal thirst for revenge against Kristi?

Lisa Jackson expertly weaves suspense throughout the narrative, ensuring readers are kept on the edge of their seats as they delve into the twisted labyrinth of the killer’s mind. Multiple storylines intertwine, adding complexity and depth to the tale, while constantly leaving readers guessing and questioning the true identity of the culprit. The uncertainty surrounding Father John’s involvement in the attack on Kristi, the murder of Jay, and the string of slain prostitutes heightens the suspense, transforming the investigation into a perplexing puzzle that demands unraveling.

Amidst the darkness and peril, the character of Kristi Bentz emerges as a beacon of resilience and determination. Her personal connection to the case, combined with her expertise as a true crime writer, lends a unique perspective to the narrative. Readers will find themselves empathizing with Kristi as she confronts her own fears, courageously puts herself in harm’s way to seek justice, and unravels the truth concealed beneath layers of deceit.

The return of Father John, a sadistic killer known for strangling his victims with a rosary made of sharpened stones, sets the stage for a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between the relentless killer and the determined detectives. The revelation that Father John may not be dead after all injects an additional layer of suspense and mystery into the story. Is this a copycat imitating his methods, or is it indeed the real Father John seeking revenge?

The pacing of the novel is relentless, with an abundance of twists and turns that will keep readers guessing at every corner. Jackson skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a complex web of intrigue and deception. As the detectives delve deeper into the case, shocking secrets and unexpected connections are unearthed, leaving readers stunned and eager to uncover the truth.

The atmospheric setting of New Orleans plays a vital role in creating a gothic and haunting ambiance throughout the story. The vivid descriptions of the swamp areas evoke a sense of unease and fear, while the juxtaposition of the city’s vibrant culture with its dark underbelly of crime heightens the tension and adds to the overall sense of captivation.

The investigative team of Bentz and Montoya brings an engaging dynamic to the story. Their camaraderie and complementary skills make them a formidable force in their relentless pursuit of justice. Furthermore, the enigmatic presence of Montoya’s brother adds an intriguing subplot that leaves readers curious about his role and motivations, further enriching the narrative.

Lisa Jackson’s prowess in crafting complex and multi-layered characters shines brightly in The Last Sinner. Each character, whether they are a detective, a victim, or a suspect, is given depth and dimension, making them feel remarkably real and relatable. Their emotional struggles and personal demons add nuance to the story, elevating the overall reading experience.

As the plot unfolds, Jackson expertly ratchets up the tension and suspense, keeping readers on their toes and second-guessing at every turn. The pacing is flawless, with well-timed twists and surprises that leave readers breathless. And just when you think you’ve figured it all out, the shocking twist at the end reveals a surprising truth that ties everything together, leaving readers reeling with astonishment.

In addition to the captivating main plotline, Jackson skillfully weaves in elements of past cases and character backstories. This technique adds depth and richness to the narrative, immersing readers fully in the world she has created. It allows readers to develop a deep connection with the characters and keeps them engaged and invested in every twist and turn of the story.

While The Last Sinner offers an enthralling and suspenseful reading experience, it’s essential to mention a few potential drawbacks. One aspect that some readers might find challenging is the intricate web of interconnected characters and storylines. With multiple plot threads and a sizable cast of characters, it can be demanding to keep track of all the relationships and developments, particularly for readers who are new to the series. However, for those who enjoy intricate and gritty crime thrillers, this complexity can be part of the book’s appeal, as it keeps them mentally engaged and intrigued.

Another aspect to note is the intense and graphic nature of the crimes depicted in the book. Some readers who are sensitive to explicit violence or disturbing imagery may find certain scenes difficult to read. However, it is worth noting that these elements contribute to the overall atmospheric and chilling nature of the story, and they serve to emphasize the depravity of the killer and the urgency of the investigation.

In conclusion, The Last Sinner is a masterfully crafted thriller that excels in every aspect. Lisa Jackson’s skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, atmospheric setting, and relentless suspense make it a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you’re new to the series or a long-time follower, this book will have you gripped from beginning to end, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next installment. Do not miss out on this chilling and captivating read that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.