Appointment with Death: A Novel

David J. Dundas
iUniverse (2007)
ISBN 9780595456949
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (12/08)

 

“Appointment with Death” written by David J. Dundas is a fast-paced novel. Two young men have aspirations of attaining their dreams. One succeeds in his goals. The other young man’s dreams are thwarted.

Protagonist Mike Murphy quickly moves through family conflict, threatened dreams, high-school graduation, Silverton Police Academy training, early service as a cop, dealing with drug pushers and prostitutes, and a fast track to becoming a detective on the force.

A serial killer has claimed the lives of four victims, all high class “ladies of the night.”  Murphy and his partner are assigned to solve the case.  As new victims are found the search for the perpetrator is accelerated. Responsible news reporting quickly became tabloid journalism at its best.

Officer Maria Reyes unexpectedly found herself assigned as an undercover officer in a special sex crimes unit. She was assigned to a high-class, local brothel. Within days of her assignment she was being stalked. Ready to report suspicions of the serial killer’s identity she found a message in blood on her wall threatening her life.

After a news reporter, Cynthia Scott, was added to the list of murder victims, FBI Agent Kathleen Herzer was assigned to the investigative team. Chief of Police Michael O’Hara found himself face to face with the killer.  As the suspense heightens and the mystery unfolds, Dundas uses a technique in writing that skillfully keeps the reader one step ahead of the news media and the police as he gives the reader insight into the mind of the killer.

The madman has successfully created a frenzy of fear throughout the citizens of Silverton.  In his planned crusade of revenge against the police department he continues intentionally and methodically to turn the whole community of Silverton against their police force.

David Dundas draws from his background in law enforcement to pen this exciting novel. “Appointment with Death” is packed with suspense, nuances of romance, and opportunities for the reader to exercise their deductive skills.

David Dundas’ writing is dynamic. The pages “Appointment with Death” are filled with stimulating dialog, believable characters, and intricate plot twists that keep the reader turning the pages guessing at the outcome. The crescendo of suspense continues to build until the final climatic ending.

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