Bloody Pages (Kim Jansen Detective Novel, Book 2)

Rare books stolen from a local library give Detective Kim Jansen her latest case. The sixteen volumes are half of a set featuring photographs of Native Americans. During the theft, there is serious injury to a security guard. As Jansen gathers information, her list of suspects grows to include a wealthy vineyard owner, his history professor son, and an old college roommate. Kim’s former partner, who went into private security, returns to help her with the case. The clock is ticking as the detective follows clues around the city and one question lingers in every inquiry: why steal only half the valuable set?

A family’s past does affect future generations. Bruce Lewis is skillful is relating that in this story. A man haunted by the abuse of his childhood seeks to create awareness in the present in a way that will make a mark. Although the premise of the book is profound, the story itself drags in many places due to the author’s efforts to include detailed information about characters. Many scientific studies about intergenerational trauma as depicted in this novel are well known, but the level of detail here is almost too much. The detective isn’t even introduced until well into the book and doesn’t stand out as the heroine of the story. This is the second book in the series. Overall, it’s a fascinating story of a family’s struggle and the domino effect that past trauma can have. It’s definitely a thriller that offers a satisfying ending for all involved.

Leah Neale