LEFT FOR DEAD by J.A. Jance

I enjoy a series that is strong enough to support stand alone installments, but intriguing enough to entice me to seek out the earlier books.

New York Times Bestselling Author J.A. Jance’s latest release, LEFT FOR DEAD, is just such an installment. This is the 7th book in the Ali Reynolds Series but can be read (or listened to) alone.

Santa Cruz County Deputy Sheriff Jose Reyes has been shot and left for dead. The shooting happened during a routine traffic stop. But when officers investigate the scene, they find evidence Reyes may be a dirty cop dealing in drugs.

Ali Reynolds and Reyes went to the Arizona Police Academy together. Reyes earlier helped Ali with a troubled friends. Now it’s Ali’s chance to return the favor as Reyes and his wife are expected a child anytime. Besides, Ali can’t see Reyes as a drug dealer.

Meanwhile, a young ‘Jane Doe’ has been tortured, raped, and left in the desert for dead. She’s found by a border patrol officer who doesn’t believe she’s an illegal immigrant like the other officers do. A rose tattoo is the only clue to her true identify.

As the two cases work their way together, a third story unfolds. A postal worker cares for his wife who refuses to leave their home after the death of their daughter years earlier. The postal worker is found murdered and his wife taken into custody, but his secret life could have bearing on the Reyes case.

The author does a wonderful job pulling all the stories together for a dramatic conclusion. As the story weaves back and forth, the reader (or listener) is never lost as the plot flows smoothly and at a fast pace.

Karen Ziemba does a delightful job of narrating this intriguing tale. She gives each character their own unique voice bringing the emotions of the story to the forefront. Her cadence is pleasant and easy to listen to.

LEFT FOR DEAD will keep you guessing while keeping you on pins and needles until the end.

Author J.A. Jance’s website is www.jajance.com

Left For Dead by J.A. Jance, An Ali Reynolds Novel, Read by Karen Ziemba, Simon & Schuster Audio, @2012, ISBN: 978-1442346239, Unabridged, 9 Discs, Listening Time 10 Hours, 30 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

 

Do you enjoy stories that bring 2 or more plots together? Thanks so much for stopping by.