Book Review: St. Jude's Secret

Reviewed By: Luke Croll - RAM

St. Jude's Secret     Amazon US TPB Amazon Canada TPB
Daniel H. Jones
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Thriller
Writer's Showcase; 2001; $12.95; 238pp
Classification: Adult fiction (thriller)

Bobby Grace is a disillusioned attorney. However, when he comes into contact with coffee that seems to be able to kill, he decides to take the case, never dreaming that it will throw him into mortal danger and provide links to his father's death, years before.

Since the book is rather short, 'St Jude's Secret' can be read in two, if not one, sittings. There is nothing complicated here and the scientific aspects are made so easy to understand that anyone without even the slightest scientific knowledge could realise what is going on. This could be seen as a bad thing, as the lack of solid information could allow this plotline to be dismissed as pure fantasy. However, if you prefer not to read pages of scientific details, then this will not be a problem.

Jones is keen to show that he knows New Orleans well and the city, with its atmosphere, streets and surroundings is described in detail. His characters move with ease and in general, the plot rings true. The denouement came perhaps a bit too easily, but this is only a minor problem. There are the odd grammatical errors that should have been picked up at the proofreading stage, but in terms of the novel's construction, it is a tight, fast read.

For his first novel, Jones has produced a reasonable effort and from this point on, his talents can only improve. The book could have been longer, with the plot more developed, but aside from this, 'St Jude's Secret' is an easy read, without difficulties and complications, and ideal for a summer's day.

Luke Croll - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

Luke Croll - Conference interpreter and translator
http://lukecroll.translatorscafe.com