After reading the first two books in this trilogy, I was itching to dig into the “conclusion.” I put conclusion in quotes because the author plans many more in the series, but I had hoped this installment would bring the narrative in the first two books to a proper conclusion. I’m happy to report that the novel provides a satisfactory ending to Ameena Jardine’s (AJ) investigation into serial killer Copernicus.
The last novel, Abbac1, left our favorite detective in a perilous situation, but without revealing too much, she survives that encounter. The recovery is a long and slow process, and AJ’s PTSD has resurfaced with a vengeance. Nevertheless, AJ continues her investigation into the drug cartel The Fasciata as well as the serial killer Copernicus. Will she bring the cartel down or stop the killer? Surprisingly, these questions aren’t the focus of the novel. Plot takes a backseat to character in this installment.
The author has effectively put her main character in crisis and her conflict is the center of this novel—not the mystery. Although the plot, settings, and theme are still very much present in Zeph1rum. Two memorable scenes include AJ’s recovery and investigation into a crime scene because of the writer’s masterful style. I grew to root for AJ over the trilogy. She has a rock-solid family, supportive friends, and a boss who believes in her. What could make her a more well-rounded character? Add affection for some dangerous characters, of course.
Near the end, AJ solves some elements of the trilogy as we would expect from our main character. In previous installments, she shared the “aha” moments with other characters. In this one, she’s the sleuth following the clues, coming into her own as a detective.
A wedding, family issues, prognostics, and PTSD episodes all play a significant part in this absorbing novel. Even my favorite humorous detail, the beloved desk scar, makes an appearance. I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first half. The conflict, as I said before, is front and center and plays a huge part in the resolution.
Endings are fickle elements in books. They can elude the best of writers. I’m happy to report that Zeph1rum nails the ending. It’s suspenseful and imaginative. I’m partial to the type of ending that occurs here, and the main character’s arc was completely believable and satisfying. How I feel about a book hinges primarily on the opening chapter and the climax, and this book’s ending won me over.
The final section of this book contains a number of appendices that contribute to the work embodied in the novel. Everything is there…including recipes! I really enjoyed how much the author has thought about her world and what she shares in the final pages. As I said in a previous review, this is a novel about details, and Karma Lei Angelo goes above and beyond documenting the material she used to build AJ’s world. This is so fun that I wish more authors would provide similar contributions.
Overall, the book has a satisfying conclusion but remains open to future installments. Zeph1rum is a thrill ride about characters, honor, and ultimately love. I’m happy to recommend it.