‘Rules of Crime’ by L.J. Sellers

Published by Thomas & Mercer,
26 February 2013.
ISBN: 978-1-61109806-8 (PB)

This is the seventh book in the series of novels featuring Detective Wade Jackson and starts with the kidnap of his ex-wife, Renee, a move which he believes is linked to possible revenge on her current partner.  Jackson is drawn into the case, liaising with the FBI, as he strives to help his daughter come to terms with the abduction and also to find his ex before she gets harmed.   The kidnap has some unusual elements and some bad luck whilst handing over the ransom means that Renee's safety is even more at risk.

Alongside this case, one of Jackson's colleagues is also involved in investigating a brutal beating which leaves a university student naked and barely alive outside the local ER.  The word is that this is part of a ritual hazing, but finding evidence is a challenge, especially within the closed student community.

The narrative is well crafted, and the fascinating situation of Wade Jackson and his family and social life creates an interesting dynamic which helps round out the plot.  Throw in a few really unpleasant suspects, some nasty and surprising twists and this became a good read and not one you can easily put down.  I enjoyed the previous Wade Jackson outing and this latest instalment didn’t disappoint.  The rather abrupt ending mirrors the shock revelations and outcomes from the last few chapters and leaves the reader wanting to know "what next?"
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Reviewer: Amanda Brown

L J Sellers writes the bestselling Detective Jackson mystery/thriller series, a Readers Favourite award winner, as well as provocative standalone thrillers. Her novels have been highly praised by Mystery Scene, Crimespree, and RT Reviews, and her Jackson books are Kindle bestsellers as well as top-ranked novels. L.J., who resides in Eugene, Oregon where her novels are set, is also an award-winning journalist who earned the Grand Neal. When not plotting murders, she enjoys standup comedy, cycling, social networking, and attending mystery conferences. She’s also been known to jump out of airplanes.