This well-written Mystery/Thriller is an engrossing story about an affable man caught up in a series of events that entangle him in a seething conspiracy with far-reaching tentacles. As he begins unraveling the mysterious circumstances of the death of a co-worker, his own relationship with his long-time, live-in girlfriend becomes strained almost to its breaking point.

A stressful situation at work becomes unbearable as Michael is forced into the role of hatchet-man after his company is bought out by a larger corporation. Top government officials are bribed so that facts can remain buried and re-zoning is fast-tracked. When that does not stem the pesky leaks, more aggressive measures are undertaken.

When Michael’s friend is railroaded for the murder by a consortium of wealthy entrepreneurs hell-bent on maintaining the secrecy of their clandestine agenda, Michael refuses to set-aside his own investigation; instead, he turns up the heat, and not even the woman he loves can escape the scorching repercussions of his whistle-blowing.

This book grabbed my attention at the start. The tension is outstanding; deftly ratcheted ever tighter all the way to the exciting conclusion. I felt a few times that the conversations between Marisa and Michael seemed a little forced or a tad stiff, and I personally questioned why a teenage indiscretion should retain such a forceful grip over a thirty-something, successful woman; but, these nits aside, I thought this was an outstanding debut novel.

This book was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review. ( )