By Reason of Insanity
Inspirational suspense novelist Singer (Directed Verdict) hooks readers from the opening courtroom scene of this tasty thriller, then spurs them through a fast trot across a storyline that just keeps delivering. Catherine O'Rourke is a seasoned reporter who covers trials for Norfolk, Virginia's The Tidewater Times. The latest sexual abuse case she covers hits a little too close to home, and she has a series of disturbing "visions" that suggest first-hand details of the crimes. Soon she finds herself on trial as the "Avenger," a Bible-quoting serial killer. Are her visions spiritual? Or does she have a split personality? She's unsure of her innocence or guilt-and so are her lawyers, including the likeable high-rolling Vegas attorney, Quinn Newberg, who is famous for his insanity defenses. Singer tosses out plot twists with abandon, shattering readers' assumptions but rarely straining their credulity. The characters' lives unpeel like onions, with layers of interesting revelations. Christian faith plays a role in the "visions" but never feels forced. Smooth point of view changes, snappy dialogue, interesting details and unexpected humor enrich the storyline. Like the best suspense novels, the character development is sophisticated enough that readers won't know the villain's identity until the final pages.Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.