In Pursuit (An Ivy Nash Thriller, #2)

by John W Mefford

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

OK, I am not thrilled with the way this installment concluded. What in the hell was that? I will not go into the details at the risk of revealing spoilers, but know this; I will have to wait for the next book in the series to get the answers I so desperately need. Despite my issues with the ending, I must confess that I did enjoy this installment. The story started out with a bang and it had me hooked from that moment, then as the story unfolded, it became intense and had me on the edge of my seat to the very end.

In this installment, Ivy is trying to come to terms with the traumatic event that occurred in the earlier book. Her determination in preventing it from controlling her had her pouring her heart and soul in the running of her new business ECHO. Unfortunately, she is still not safe as someone is determined to take her out by any means necessary. In addition, a serial killer is making it his mission to kill persons who in some way connected with Ivy. Is the killer someone from her past? Does it have anything to do with her traumatic experience? In the midst of all this, she has taken on a case involving missing parents. Despite this not being the type of case that ECHO investigates Ivy decided to take the job, albeit reluctantly. As the story developed, it became clear that the case with the missing parents was connected to the current spate of murders.

One of the things I enjoy about the author’s books is his portrayal of the villain. Readers get a peek into the killer’s mind and trust me this is one sick individual. The manner in which he carries out his kills was morbid, definitely not for the faint of heart. The motive for the murders became clear as the story unfolded and so did the killer’s connection to Ivy. The author did a fantastic job in peeling away the layers that made up the villain, which made him a fascinating character.

I admired Ivy, a tough as nails heroine, who is determined to rise above her abusive past. However, there were times when I found her actions frustrating. For example, she was aware that she was in danger, but she refused to accept police protection. I understand her need to be tough, but I thought her refusal to acknowledge her need for protection bordered on being reckless.

The author creates a story that is not only thrilling, but also mysterious. He pulled me right into the story with his descriptive scenes, which made me feel as if were a part of the narrative. This story is dark, gritty, and filled with jaw-dropping twists.

VERDICT
If you are a fan of mysteries and thrillers, then this is a must read. Note to get a full understanding of Ivy’s life and the events that led to her current situation, then its best to read IN Defiance prior to reading this installment.