Broken Places is the first in a series about a private detective in Chicago. Cass Raine is an African-American woman who used to be a police officer. She is one of my favorite PI characters I have read in a long time. In this novel, she is trying to solve the murder of her good friend, a priest at the local Catholic church. The mystery was interesting and although I predicted the culprit pretty early on, I enjoyed following Cass as she followed the clues and figured it out. I especially liked all of the supporting characters. Cass has an eclectic group of friends that added just the right amount of comic relief. I will definitely continue reading this series. ( )

First in a series that might be worth following ( )

Broken Places was one of the best starts to a new to me mystery series that I've read in a long time. I say one because I've read a couple of firsts in series this year that were real winners as well. This book though really stood out for me. Cass is one of those main characters that you want to meet in real life. She isn't perfect but she sticks to what she believes in, and you cannot help but respect her for it. Or at least I couldn't, I should say. I appreciated the way that this author used this book to also look at both police brutality and police shootings. The commentary on our justice system in general was perfection. This wasn't a book that I rushed through but instead took my time with. That being said, I had a hard time setting it down. The mystery was very compelling and kept me guessing the entire time. I'm eager to get back to this series and these characters. In fact, I already have the second book checked out from the library because this book was that good.

Overall, I enjoyed my time with this book and these characters immensely. Pick this book up if you enjoy police procedurals, mysteries that keep you guessing, and especially if you just want a really great read in general. Highly recommended!

Bottom Line: A standout beginning to this new to me series.

Disclosure: I read a copy of this book courtesy of my local library. Honest thoughts are my own. ( )

After having recently read and enjoyed Fred Vargas' This Poison Will Remain I assumed Clark's Broken Places would not do anything for me. Surprised I enjoyed it as much as I did! That speaks to Clark's way with words, characters and heart.

Quick, exciting read.

I plan on reading more of Cass Raines and her cases.

Excellent read! Likable main character, Cass Raines, is now a PI after leaving the police force, where she made many friends and admirers as well as an enduring antagonist. In this first book of a series, Cass is caught up in the the murder of a beloved priest/friend, and while grief-stricken, she leads a dogged search to find his killer. Sharp-witted and fearless, she tracks down leads with the reluctant help of her ex-partner, and a number of colorful characters along the way. Moves briskly and with urgency. Loved it and couldn't put it down. ( )