The Murder List is a complex, character driven legal thriller set in Massachusetts. I haven’t read a mystery in ages. I requested the book because I met the author at a book signing for Kristen Higgins read last year. I was surprised to learn that one of my favorite news journalists was an author. The characters and the pursuit of justice in this fast-paced novel captivated me and drew me into the story immediately.
Hank Phillipi Ryan crafts a complex storyline in The Murder List. Professional and personal relationships are intertwined in this legal thriller. Rachel North has accepted a coveted summer internship with District Attorney Martha Gardiner. Jack Kirkland is a prominent defense attorney who is married to Rachel. Jack’s relationship with his rival Martha is acrimonious. Jack wonders why Martha is offering the job to Rachel. He does not approve of Rachel’s decision to work with his nemesis.
The competition between prosecutor Gardiner and defense counsel Kirkland is the key element which drove the storyline. Neither attorney wanted to lose when they faced each other in court. Loved how the characters of Rachel, Martha and Jack represent the justice system. Each character believed in his or her version of justice and will use any type of tactic to ensure their version of justice prevailed.
The author employs the flashback technique by setting the chapters in the past and present; providing each characters take on the present situation and past events. I loved this aspect of the novel as it provided intrigue and revealed a little bit about each character. Every time I thought I knew where the story was headed- there was a shift in the plot, a character from the past became a focus and I had to rethink the characters actions and motivations.
The conclusion took me totally by surprise—and I loved it! I admit that I fell for many of the red herrings in this cleverly done thriller. I went back and re read several chapters to figure out the clues.
If you are looking for an excellent summer read—pick up a copy of Hank Phillipi Ryan’s The Murder List. I am going to read the authors Jane Ryland series starting with The Other Woman.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.
Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC provided by author
Photo of Hank-Steve Bucci
Praise for The Murder List
Cat and mouse… and cat! A twisty triple triangle of suspense.
CrimeReads Most Anticipated Summer Book of 2019!
“Masterly plotted—with a twisted ending—a riveting, character-driven story. THE MURDER LIST is guilty of inciting shock and amazement at the author's skill. VERDICT: A must-read…” —Library Journal *Starred Review
“A cracker of a read—her best yet!” —B.A. Paris, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
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