The Cutting Edge – Jeffrey Deaver
I was fortunate to receive this novel as an Advance Reader Copy, in exchange for an objective review.
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are back in another complex mystery – this one involving the diamond industry. This novel opens as a young couple are arriving at a quiet Midtown New York building to see a reticent jeweler/diamond cutter, who has created the perfect engagement ring for them. All of a sudden, an armed assailant enters the suite, and both the couple and the artisan are found dead moments later by a young associate, Vimal, who narrowly escapes being mortally wounded himself.
Soon, Lincoln Rhyme and his investigative crew are asked to assist with the Diamond District murders, and Amelia’s first run of the grid at the crime scene leaves her with more questions than answers. Then another murder attempt takes place, by an assailant seemingly fixed on the diamonds that the women are wearing, and their relationship to mother Earth.
From there the novel gains complexity, as Lincoln is asked to consult for the defense for a known Mexican cartel leader, whose team of attorneys feel that he is being set up and that Lincoln can help prove their case. Meanwhile a local geological project is creating dissention, and a series of mini earthquakes and gas leaks begin to plague the city.
Are these all separate incidents? Or are they all somehow related? Lincoln, Amelia and his criminalist team seek answers as ‘Unsub 47’ continues to elude them, Vimal goes on the run, and danger lurks ever closer to home, culminating in an ending that you’ll never see coming!!
Jeffrey Deaver is a master storyteller, and his latest does not disappoint!! Fabulous read, as always!!! And a great lesson in the diamond industry, carats, and cutting as well!!
Due out 4/10/2017
Tropical Delusions...... 