Whisper of Evil by Kay Hooper

Title: Whisper of Evil
Author: Kay Hooper
Rating: 3 Stars


Synopsis: Who says you can't go home again? Of course, if you do, you may uncover secrets better left hidden as FBI Agent Nell Gallagher soon discovers. 

Review: A good premise but the poor character development and weak investigative process make this a mediocre addition to the series.

The pacing is off as the buildup toward the climax is drawn out and tedious while the denouement is too rapid and anti-climactic. 

The romance reads like an afterthought. While Max and Nell have the potential for some sizzling chemistry, their past relationship is revealed in dribs and drabs, which makes it difficult for the reader to care about them one way or the other. In fact, the secondary romance between Shelby and Justin is far more engaging.

In terms of the serial killer plot, other than the profile indicating that the killer is a cop (this is revealed at the outset so its not a spoiler), there are absolutely NO clues as to his or her identity because the secondary cast is not fleshed out AT ALL. Moreover, the psychic elements contribute very little to the investigation and the twist is predictable.

Overall, not up to Hooper's standards.