Should I Fall

by Scott Shepherd

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Should I Fall is the second Austin Grant procedural mystery by Scott Shepherd. Released 7th June 2022 by Penzler, it's 312 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in 2nd quarter 2023 from the same publisher. 

This is a very well constructed mystery thriller. Despite being the second book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone and it wasn't difficult to follow the story with the information given. It's a twisty plot, with multiple threads converging in a bit-too-convenient and slightly sappy climax and resolution. 

The book isn't completely problem-free. It was difficult to engage with protagonist John; he's surprisingly unlikable. The ending and resolution were also weaker than anticipated. All in all though, it's a worthwhile and entertaining read, even though the MC makes some decisions in the course of the book which were phenomenally stupid and really, as an officer of the law (current OR former) should have *known* better. 

Three and a half stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes