One of the things I enjoy most about reading Robert Bryndza's books is that the story takes off right on the first page and does not slow down. You are instantly hooked and want to keep reading. The Lost Victim is no different. We get a glimpse into the investigation to find, not only the lost victim, but the truth behind her disappearance. Though it's part of a series, you won't be confused or anything by reading it out of order. This will appeal to the true crime enthusiast! ( )

This is the fifth in the Kate Marshall series. I have read three of them.

Teenager Janey Macklin disappeared in 1988. A man was convicted of killing her but later that conviction was reversed. Now, an imprisoned serial killer claims that fellow serial killer Peter Conway, known as the Nine Elms Cannibal, is responsible. A podcast company hires private investigator Kate Marshall and her partner Tristan Harper to seek the truth. In need of increased cash flow, they take the case even though Conway is Kate’s former husband, the father of her child, and the man she put behind bars. As they work to unravel the mystery, long held secrets are revealed.

Bryndza writes a well plotted, fast paced story with good character development that draws you in from the beginning. I couldn’t put this book down. He creates a good sense of place, I could easily picture the seedier neighborhoods of the 1980s, the hustle and bustle of present day London, and feel the chill of the frigid weather and heat deprived apartment used by Kate and Tristan. Kate is a bright, capable, strong, but vulnerable female character despite her earlier difficulties in life. Tristan, her once research assistant, has grown into being a valuable partner. I enjoy these characters.

Although part of a series, this does work as a standalone. Fans of solid investigative procedurals and mysteries will enjoy this addition to the series, among one of my favorites, along with Bryndza’s Erika Foster series.

Thanks to #netgalley and @robertbryndza #ravenstreetpublishing for the DRC. ( )