In Murder in Concrete, author Arthur Coburn delivers a riveting mystery thriller centered around the determined and headstrong Charlie Purdue. The narrative begins with Charlie’s world being shattered by the traumatic discovery of her mother’s body and her father fleeing the scene, an event that throws her once-ordinary teenage life into disarray. Struggling with PTSD and paranoia, she takes it upon herself to unravel the truth behind her mother’s murder, leading her on an unexpected journey to a Los Angeles movie set. There, she not only finds clues to the murder but also uncovers answers to questions she hadn’t even considered.

Coburn crafts a compelling investigation, effectively drawing readers into Charlie’s quest. Her refusal to accept the town’s prevalent theory about her father’s guilt drives the story forward with urgency. The depiction of Charlie’s PTSD is a notable aspect of the book, adding layers to her character and introducing an element of unreliability in her narration. This narrative choice enriches the plot’s complexity and adds to the overall suspense.

Coburn successfully portrays Charlie as a convincingly relentless avenger in her quest for justice, complemented by a well-rounded ensemble of villains and allies. Although there are moments where the dialogue between Charlie and the secondary characters could be more fluid, these instances are balanced by the overall strength in character development, adding depth to Charlie’s interactions and journey. While occasionally facing challenges in fluidity during scene transitions, Coburn’s prose successfully maintains a brisk pace that keeps the reader thoroughly engaged. The story culminates in a notably satisfying conclusion, skillfully tying up loose ends and offering a twist that is poised to delight readers.

Murder in Concrete stands out as a solid pick for those who enjoy a fast-paced thriller that combines an intricate mystery with high emotional stakes. Coburn’s narrative invites readers into a world where uncovering the truth is as perilous as it is imperative, making for an engaging and suspenseful read.

Pages: 335 | ASIN : B0CRJ19QWQ