Thursday, October 10, 2024

Shades of Mercy

Title: Shades of Mercy
Author: Bruce Borgos
Published: July 16, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 352 Pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Porter Beck #2

First Sentence: At 92,000 feet, the Vulture suddenly developed a mind of its own.

Blurb: Porter Beck is the sheriff in the high desert of Nevada, doing the same lawman's job his father once did now that he's returned home after decades away. With his twelve person department, they cover a large area that is usually very quiet, but not of late. One childhood friend is the latest to succumb to a new wave of particularly strong illegal opioids, another childhood friend—now an enormously successful rancher—is targeted by a military drone, hacked and commandeered by an unknown source. The hacker is apparently local—local enough to call out Beck by name—and that means they are Beck's problem.

Beck's investigation leads him to Mercy Vaughn, the one known hacker in the area. The problem is that she's a teenager, locked up with no computer access at the secure juvenile detention center. But there's something Mercy that doesn't sit quite right with Beck. But when Mercy disappears, Beck understands that she's in danger and time is running out for all of them.

My Opinion: Shades of Mercy by Bruce Borgos is a must-read that will captivate you from the very first page. Borgos, an author who truly deserves more recognition, has crafted a story that is both gripping and unforgettable.

The novel centers on Sheriff Porter Beck, a determined lawman facing the challenges of a degenerative illness. His unwavering resolve and straightforward approach are truly admirable. Beck’s sister, with her courage and determination, adds another layer of depth to the story. The community’s steadfast support for their sheriff, always ready to lend a hand, is both touching and integral to the plot.

The book features several graphic and intense scenes, but they are essential to the storyline and never feel gratuitous. Borgos strikes a perfect balance, incorporating just enough technology to intrigue without overwhelming the reader.

One of the most thrilling aspects is the raging fire that threatens the team. This, combined with the presence of some dubious characters, creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere as they work to rescue those in over their heads.

I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book, The Blue Horse, expected in the summer of 2025. If it’s anything like Shades of Mercy, it promises to be another enthralling read.

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