The Death of Anyone

D.J. Swykert sent me a print copy of The Death of Anyone for review.

The Death of Anyone is a detective story most definitely written for adults. The language and details of the crimes committed are not for the timid. The last time I heard language this coarse was 40+ years ago when I was in the Army.

The crimes committed in The Death of Anyone are so heinous I had a hard time reading about them. I don't have a problem reading violent books, but the sickness of the crimes (rape, murder) committed in this book are intense. Fortunately for me. author Swykert does a good job of balancing other more palatable story lines to give the reader a break from the intense emotions stirred.

Our hero, a female cop, Bonnie Benham, is one of the toughest characters of any gender you are likely to encounter. Lead detective on a serial murder case, we see how her life as a cop has impacted her personal life.

We learn a bit about forensics, police procedure, and political power, as we follow progress in the case.

There is a strong romantic story line to balance against the evil of the crime, and on a somewhat humorous level, we find that most police strategy sessions happen over meals (no doughnut jokes). These folks go out to eat a whole lot more than I do.

The Death of Anyone is not a light read. It is tough, gritty, and in your face. I was not surprised to learn that D.J. Swykert is a former 911 operator. His depiction of police seems to be believable, though I am certainly no expert on the subject. He has given us a well written story of; crime, violence, murder, investigative procedure, romance, and sex. It is a no-holds-barred story which kept me reading til well after my bedtime. In fact I stayed awake quite late to finish.

D.J. Swykert has given his audience an intense ride in The Death of Anyone. Readers of the crime/thriller genre should find this offering satisfying. Enjoy!

Mike