Summary
What They Saw
by M.M. Chouinard
Next to the lake’s dappled water, a woman lies on her yoga mat, her limbs twisted as if she is trying to crawl away. Her mug of tea steams into the cool air and her lips, still warm, are parted mid-sentence. But she will never speak or see again...
When Sandra Ashville is found murdered in a sleepy town near Oakhurst, Detective Jo Fournier is first at the scene. Jo is shaken by the similarities between herself and the dead assistant District Attorney, a dedicated woman with a heart for justice. And as she examines Sandra’s body, Jo discovers something that chills her to the bone: the bullet hole is covered by an intact blindfold. Why was Sandra only blindfolded after her death?
The very next morning Jo receives a shocking call. A judge has been brutally killed, before she too was blindfolded. Soon it becomes clear that the twisted serial killer is working with a deadly countdown: every morning, another body will be found. Working around the clock, Jo makes an important break-through: all the victims are connected to the same murder trial. And Jo’s dear friend and partner Bob Arnett could be next…
With the next morning rapidly approaching, Jo and her team pull out all the stops to catch the killer. But when she uncovers a stain of corruption that includes Bob, Jo faces an impossible choice. Can she trust her partner, when the evidence suggests he turned a blind eye to a grave miscarriage of justice? And as the body count rises, can Jo catch the killer before it is too late for her oldest friend?
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Martial Peak Reviews
M.M. Chouinard's What They Saw is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that plunges readers into a chilling murder investigation led by the determined Detective Jo Fournier. Set against the backdrop of a seemingly tranquil town near Oakhurst, the novel opens with a haunting scene: a woman, Sandra Ashville, lies dead by the lake, her body twisted in a desperate attempt to escape her fate. This unsettling image sets the tone for a story that is as much about the pursuit of justice as it is about the moral complexities that come with it.
The narrative is driven by the relentless pace of a serial killer's spree, with each murder meticulously planned and executed. The killer's signature—blindfolding the victims post-mortem—adds a layer of psychological intrigue that keeps both the characters and readers guessing. Chouinard expertly crafts a plot that is both intricate and engaging, weaving together elements of mystery, suspense, and drama to create a story that is hard to put down.
One of the novel's standout features is its exploration of justice and corruption. As Detective Jo Fournier delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of deceit that challenges her understanding of right and wrong. The connection between the victims and a past murder trial raises questions about the integrity of the legal system and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets. This theme is particularly resonant in today's world, where issues of justice and accountability are at the forefront of societal discourse.
Character development is another strong suit of What They Saw. Jo Fournier is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her unwavering dedication to her job and her complex personal life. Her internal struggles, particularly her doubts about her partner Bob Arnett, add depth to her character and make her relatable to readers. Jo's journey is not just about solving the case but also about confronting her own beliefs and the people she trusts. This internal conflict is skillfully portrayed, making Jo a multidimensional character who evolves throughout the story.
The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each contributing to the narrative in meaningful ways. Sandra Ashville, though deceased, is brought to life through Jo's investigation, revealing a woman who was as passionate about justice as Jo herself. Bob Arnett, Jo's partner and friend, is a particularly intriguing character. The tension between Jo's loyalty to Bob and the evidence suggesting his involvement in corruption creates a compelling subplot that adds to the novel's suspense.
Chouinard's writing style is both engaging and evocative. Her descriptions of the crime scenes are vivid, immersing readers in the chilling atmosphere of the murders. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the urgency and tension of the investigation. Chouinard's ability to balance action with introspection ensures that the story remains dynamic while also providing insight into the characters' motivations and emotions.
In comparison to other thrillers, What They Saw stands out for its focus on the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist. While many crime novels emphasize the hunt for the killer, Chouinard delves deeper into the psychological and ethical challenges that accompany such investigations. This approach is reminiscent of works by authors like Tana French and Karin Slaughter, who also explore the complexities of justice and morality in their stories. However, Chouinard's unique voice and perspective ensure that What They Saw offers a fresh take on the genre.
Overall, What They Saw is a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to fans of crime fiction and psychological suspense. Its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of justice and corruption make it a standout addition to the genre. M.M. Chouinard has crafted a novel that not only entertains but also challenges readers to consider the complexities of truth and justice. For those seeking a thriller that goes beyond the surface, What They Saw is a must-read.
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