Book Review: Minos

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Minos     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Marcos M. Villatoro
Class/Genre:   Mystery
Series: Romilia Chacon
Justin, Charles & Company Publishers, 2003, $24.95, 300 pp.

Over six years ago when Romilia Chacon was away at college, the serial killer "the Whisperer," murdered her older sister, Catalina. Romilia eventually joined the Nashville Police Department and currently works in homicide. Still she continues her hunt for the Whisperer, who has changed his moniker to Minos in a twisted homage to Dante’s mythical monster.

Currently Romilia recovers from a nasty throat slash that happened on a different case. To pass time while she heals, Romilia explores the Internet seeking information on Minos. Additionally, Guatemalan drug lord Rafael “Tekun Uman” Murillo feels he owes a debt to Romilia for saving his life when she received the gash though he knows that it was a fortunate (for him) bi-product. He steals secret FBI records on the Whisperer and sends them to her. As she gets closer to fulfilling her obsession, the Feds take a closer look at the Central American Mayan connection between her a Salvadoran and Tekun.

MINOS is a strong police procedural that looks closely at how the darker side of human nature can take control of one’s consideration of others. The story line contains two strong subplots that tie together through the soul of the heroine is the center that holds the tale together. Romilia is a great character especially as she seems nearer to catching her prey, she loses her balance somewhat neglecting her daughter and ignoring acceptable police practices. Her “assistant” Tekun is fascinating in a sleazy way. Marcos M. Villatoro provides a strong tale starring a wonderful protagonist that will send readers seeking other works by the author especially starring Romilia (see HOME KILLINGS).

Harriet Klausner

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