Desecration is focussed on a surgically precise murder, which is perfectly appropriate, because this story eviscerates its readers. It had me hunched over the screen in horror and sitting back in tears, within the first two chapters. By the end of the book I was a mess, but what a ride!
This is a meticulously researched and emotionally gripping story created by an author at the height of her powers. It does need to come with a warning label though. This is a brutal read that will transport you into Detective Sergeant Jamie Brooke’s life so vividly that you might have to skip over some descriptions just to survive. This is not a novel for the faint hearted.
Instead the intrigue comes thick and fast, as a fascinating murder is untangled by a compelling protagonist fighting her own, gutting inner battle. She is ably supported by a sympathetic psychic, who is just as richly drawn as the lead character and also has hidden demons.
The supporting cast are deftly drawn, while the clues to their personalities are often subtle and delightful. A parent states “I’m keen to help find my daughter’s killer, but I’m sure you understand I’m… busy….” We understand all right.
Thematically this book is equally compelling with a moving study of genuine parental love that contrasts with other characters who don’t prioritise their children. Above this sits a study of death, which is of course the perfect theme for a murder mystery. Desecration dares to look at an issue which society increasingly tries to ignore. This story draws back the veil of modern ignorance to confront the experience of losing someone we love. It does so unflinchingly. This is a very special book.
Not content to rest on its laurels, Desecration also takes a satisfying swipe at corruption and attempts by the powerful to avoid accountability. This is more usual fare, but is done very well.
The language isn’t always perfect, but flows well and the occasional awkward touch is amply countered by some beautiful and evocative sentences. The writing style offers plenty of satisfaction and is very professional.
Whether this is normally your genre or not, Desecration should be on your reading list. Its characters are fascinating, while the crime and its setting lift ‘bizarre’ to a new level. It is also a story of loss and love that involves the reader so intensely it can be harrowing, but is ultimately uplifting.
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