Book Review: Semiautomatic

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Semiautomatic     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Rob Reuland
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Legal Setting   Noir   Thriller
Random House, Jun 2004, $24.95

Following his bungled prosecution of a homicide case (see HOLLOWPOINT) Assistant District Attorney Andrew Giobberti toils in the surreal Brooklyn Appeals Office, the Siberia where those whose careers are over are exiled until they retire, quit, or die. His personal life feels as if he is at rock bottom but also still in freefall as he still mourns the death of his daughter and the separation from his wife.

However, he is given a second chance at redeeming himself and a return to the Homicide 0ffice if he prosecutes the suspect in the murder of a Brooklyn bodega owner. Elation turns to distrust and he wonders if he is being paranoid as he ponders why this particular case was given to him. No one will say a word to him especially why him, not even Laurel Ashfield, who had the prosecution before Giobberti received his so-called reprieve.

SEMIAUTOMATIC is a fabulous legal Noir that gives the audience an intriguing taste of Brooklyn, home of “the dumbest killers in the world". Andrew is a marvelous lead character as she struggles with a horde of maggots that eat away at his heart and soul. Still the key to this unique story line is that the plot hits the audience on three fronts. The obvious legal thriller is enhanced by the in-politics of the DA Office and by a human salvation story all tied together by Andrew.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner