WHISKEY SOUR by J.A. Konrath

Read: Jan 8 - Jan 15
Format: Paperback, 276 pages
Source: Public Library
Setting: Chicago
Subject: serial murder
Category: A Full Course Meal
Genre: mystery-police procedural
Challenges: 101020, Thriller Suspense, 75 Book, SYLL
Stars: 2½

The heroine of this tale is named Jack Daniels so when I was looking for a book that would give me the "Cocktails" for my Full Course Meal, I thought this would be perfect. It fit the category but was not particularly palatable for me. The story is set in Chicago and tells of a serial killer who targets "sluts".

This mystery wasn't really a mystery because the reader knows right from the beginning who the bad guy is and what he is thinking and doing. He is vicious and sadistic. The descriptions of his crimes are graphic and frightening. He went after Jack without any real provocation other than the fact that she was in charge of the investigation into the brutal crimes he committed. Character development left something to be desired.

I have ready many murder mysteries but these murders are among the most grisly that I've read, (and I have read about the BTK murders). It was sickening to read about the sexual assault of his victims both alive and dead. It truly was frightening so much so that at times I had to put the book away because I couldn't bare anymore. Thriller, yes...entertaining, no. I definitely will not be continuing this series.

Editorial: I have to say that I do not feel that the graphic details of the viciousness that were included in this book were warranted and that the story would have been more palatable without all the specifics. I also believe that the details included could lead to them be used in real life and that would very sad.