Last to Die by Tess Gerritsen

Title: Last to Die
Author: Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 4 Stars


Synopsis: Three children survive the annihilation of their families only to be victims for a second time. What is the connection between them and who has target them for death? Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles must face their most determined adversary yet.  

Review: An improvement on the last two books in the series. The mystery is fast-paced and thrilling with some clever twists and turns that keep you turning the pages.

The secondary characters are well-developed, particularly the children, Teddy, WIll and Claire, which makes it easy to sympathize with their predicament and become engrossed in the plot. Moreover, the Evensong school serves as an intriguing backdrop and the descriptions of classes, teachers and student dynamics provides an extra dimension to the story. The subplot involving Julian "Rat" Perkins and the Jackals seems to suggest that Gerritsen is planning a YA spin-off.

The weakest aspect of the book is the development of Jane and Maura's characters. It seems that Gerritsen has reached a plateau in this area and has nowhere to go with it. Maura is at a crossroads in both her personal and professional life and her story lacks closure. Jane is happily married and her only issue is dealing with her obnoxious family (the Rizzolis in the TV series are much more likable bunch).
 
All in all, a gripping read although the main characters need more direction.