book-blogger

Another Five-Star Review!

Christian Fernandez of The Book Commentary said today, “The tension builds steadily in this engaging crime thriller…Cook skillfully marries crisp, atmospheric writing with emotionally charged scenes to offer an enjoyable reading experience.” Here’s the whole review:

In the scorching summer of 2022, Lake Mead’s receding waters reveal a dark secret: bodies long buried are rising to the surface. Someone must be behind bodies buried underwater. Investigative journalist Kate Temperance is determined to uncover the truth behind the murders, but Sofia Gemelli, the ruthless daughter of crime boss Giancarlo Gemelli, threatens her investigation. As Temperance digs deeper into the case, she finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and corruption that leads her from the glamorous Las Vegas Strip to the tranquil vineyards of Oregon. The stakes grow higher with each discovery, and Temperance must confront her mortality to uncover the truth. Will she survive the treacherous journey or become the next victim of All the Bodies Do?

All the Bodies Do by William J. Cook delivers a captivating crime thriller based on actual events within a sophisticated setting that links the present with the past. The narrative follows a female protagonist on a mission to solve a cold case. Kate is elaborately written with a sophisticated background and a strong motivation. But she meets a foe, the daughter of boss Giancarlo Gemelli. The author introduces readers to other intriguing characters, including Harry, a casino owner being taken out by a rival gang, and Bobby, Giancarlo’s son, torn between his loyalty to his father and his desire to distance himself from the criminal underworld. The novel offers vivid descriptions of the setting, like the moonlit lake scene where Harry is being held captive by two men, Tom and Bobby, taking him out for “a little swim.” The tension builds steadily in this engaging crime thriller. The deft exploration of themes such as power, loyalty, and identity are balanced by sophisticated family dynamics. William J. Cook skillfully marries crisp, atmospheric writing with emotionally charged scenes to offer an enjoyable reading experience. 

From The US Review of Books

All the Bodies Do
by William Cook

Book Review by Amanda Hanson, The US Review of Books

“In the silence, Kate was staring into Jay’s eyes as if she might find answers there for the emotional storm that had engulfed her.”

Kate Temperance is an investigative journalist who is looking into the murder of Giancarlo Gemelli. Her dedication to the case has caused tension with her husband, Simon, and longtime friend Bonnie, who see her preoccupation as an obsession. Despite resistance, Kate meets with Sofia Gemelli, Giancarlo’s daughter, who refuses to cooperate with the investigation. Sofia believes that it would harm her father’s reputation and her business. After the confrontation, unsettling events start to occur in Kate’s life, such as her car being keyed and fake photos supposedly showing her cheating on her husband. Kate suspects that Sofia is behind these incidents to stop her investigation. Despite facing these challenges, Kate remains determined to uncover the truth.

In his novel, Cook boldly delves into the depths of human nature, uncovering the extreme measures powerful individuals are willing to take to safeguard their secrets. These influential figures shamelessly utilize a range of intimidating tactics to suppress opposition. Moreover, the author fearlessly sheds light on the harsh truth that no one, regardless of their standing, is exempt from the reach of the law. Each character possesses a distinct voice, intricately shaping their personalities, while the dialogue provides a compelling glimpse into their inner workings. Kate, for instance, emerges as an unyielding and relentless journalist, steadfast in her defiance against coercion and bullying. Her unwavering determination and spirit make her an inspiring and compelling figure in the story. Readers will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by this book, as it offers an abundance of unforeseen twists and turns, keeping them on the edge of their seats.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review of Books