Ana Manwaring’s Kickback, the first installment in the Dafne Olabarrieta Mexico Mystery series, delivers a gripping crime thriller set against the backdrop of Mexico’s complex criminal underworld. The novel’s fast-paced narrative introduces Dafne Olabarrieta, a determined and multifaceted protagonist, whose journey unfolds with both intensity and emotional depth. The story begins with an intimate domestic moment: Dafne and her husband are having breakfast, debating the prospect of starting a family. While her husband pushes for this next step, Dafne remains focused on her career. The tranquility is shattered when a call from an estranged friend catapults Dafne into a dangerous world. From leading her firm to utilizing her hostage negotiation training, Dafne is drawn into a high-stakes race to rescue a child, navigating a labyrinth of corruption, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.

Manwaring’s intelligent prose is enriched by seamless cultural integration, with Spanish phrases and expressions adding authenticity and texture to the dialogue. Even common idioms, such as “ay,” resonate naturally in the narrative. The book’s structure also deserves praise, with its numbered and titled chapters, a thoughtful touch that enhances the reading experience in a genre where such details are often overlooked.

Dafne’s character is skillfully portrayed as both relatable and compelling. Torn between family obligations, her class-conscious mother’s expectations, a husband eager for stability, and the betrayal of her former friend Alba, Dafne’s internal struggles parallel the external chaos of the mission. The stakes are high, and personal tragedy intensifies the emotional gravity of her journey. Yet, Dafne’s resilience and moral grounding guide her through the violence and grief, reflecting a powerful arc of growth and healing.

While Kickback is undeniably a taut thriller, it transcends genre conventions by exploring themes of forgiveness, loss, and the human capacity to endure. Dafne is not without flaws, but these imperfections make her all the more believable amid the novel’s relentless pace and intricate plot. Manwaring’s nuanced exploration of the human condition elevates the story, ensuring readers are both captivated by the suspense and moved by its emotional resonance.

Kickback is a crime thriller that is a testament to the complexities of human relationships and the strength required to confront life’s darkest moments. With its engaging narrative and deep emotional undertones, this is a book that will leave readers eager for the next chapter in Dafne Olabarrieta’s journey.

Pages: 363 | ASIN : B0DJL8F8NL