Instantly compelling, “Truth Always Kills” is a top-notch contemporary crime-noir thriller from author Rick Ollerman. As his personal and professional lives collide to crash and burn, Florida homicide detective Jeff Prentiss is fighting to keep his family safe and somehow keep his career alive. His wife Lori takes their daughter Roxy and leaves Jeff when she is unsure of his role in the disappearance of her ex-husband, Roy Lee Evans, who has just been released from prison. The murder of an infamous celebrated thief brings the hot, white glare of the media attention on to the investigation of the case by Jeff and his partner, Terry Moran. The dead thief may be connected to a big-time politico, and the murky question of the whereabouts of Roy Lee Evans clouds the air along with the stench of organized crime. The best, most-readable lawmen are those whose personal flaws are at war with their skills at law enforcement. Fascinatingly imperfect, and impossible to resist. Author Rick Ollerman’s other works include “Turnabout” and “Shallow Secrets”.

Book Copy Gratis Author via AuthorBuzz//DearReader ( )

St. Pete, Florida, homicide detective Jeff Prentiss’ life is falling apart. His wife, Lori, has just left him and taken their daughter, Roxy. He’s exactly sure why, but he believes it has to do with the recent release of her jailbird ex, Roy Lee Evans.

As he is wallowing in his grief, he is called to the beach, where a body has been discovered, an apparent suicide. The body belongs to the King of Cats, Randy Shawcross. It took me about a fourth of the book before I truly understood that Shawcross was a cat burglar, which seems so odd. Across the bay in Tampa, a politician is also murdered.

Prentiss is up to his eyeballs in trouble back in the squad room. But now he must circumvent his superiors as he investigates the link between the two violent deaths.

Truth Always Kills is a typical PI book. I found that it lacked tension for me. I was never truly pulled in. Well, wait, there is that one scene that did have me gasping, but I cannot divulge any of it here as it would be a huge spoiler. Truth Always Kills is an okay read, which is why I’m giving it 3 out of 5 stars, but it’s not a memorable read…nor is Prentiss and his supporting cast. ( )