INTENT TO KILL by James Grippando
James Grippando usually writes novels that deal with the life and times of attorney Jack Swyteck. But his latest book, INTENT TO KILL, proves he can deal successfully with an entirely different set of characters. This time out Grippando still deals with murder and mayhem, but set in a different locale with characters we have to learn.
Ryan James appears to have it all – a beautiful and loving wife, an adorable daughter, and a chance to move up to the Major Leagues in Baseball. Then it all comes crashing down. A family tragedy leaves Ryan useless at baseball and emotionally distraught. An accident causes upheaval in his life and leaves Ryan floundering.
Then some three years after the accident Ryan begins to get information suggesting this accident was not an accident. Some mysterious clues are sent his way that point to a witness to the accident who has knowledge of who caused it to happen. Ryan’s first thought is of his brother-in-law Babes, a man who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome. The clues are sent in a fashion that indicates Babes sent them.
When Ryan tries to talk to Babes he runs away and hides. He is afraid the “killer” will find out what he knows and come after him. And until Ryan can get to Babes and talk to him the mystery will remain a mystery.
Ryan and Babes are two very intriguing characters. They stand out in this story of murder and corruption. There is a varied group of supporting players who also add to the fun of the book.
The only negative about this story is that it seems to drag in the middle. The story starts off fast and furious and then slows to a crawl as Ryan tries to find Babes and get the mystery solved. At the end the pace picks up again and races to a satisfying conclusion.
Grippando knows how to fashion a plot, and also how to bring characters to life. I am a big fan of the Swyteck stories but this stand alone book was a breath of fresh air in Grippando’s writing career.
When you reach the end of the story the last page is positively inspired. After you read it you will know what I mean.
INTENT TO KILL is published by HarperCollins. It contains 356 pages and sells for $25.99.