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Laney K wrote: ↑27 Dec 2023, 15:19 A thriller novel about those in witness protection being killed off sounds like an engaging book that is right up my alley!

Cara Wilding wrote: ↑19 Dec 2023, 20:34 [Following is a volunteer review of "Disappearance" by Julien Ayotte.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The two bullets in Larry Morgan's head were suspicious. The two bullets in Fred Simpson's head were problematic, setting the stage for an unparalleled dilemma for the United States Federal Witness Security Program, famously referred to as WITSEC. With more than 8,000 witnesses, the program had maintained its witness pool for 40 years, but suddenly, they were being summarily executed at an alarming rate.

Paul O'Malley, the head of the U.S. Marshals Service, calls on retired FBI Agent Harry Esten to help staunch the flow of bodies. Harry had previously played a crucial role in placing Larry in the program two decades ago. The search for the killer intensifies after a third witness comes dangerously close to being murdered. Paul and Harry have the critical task of determining whether insiders or outsiders compromised the WITSEC system. The duo never seem to catch a break when it comes to the cunning assassin who always manages to outsmart them. Curiously, the demise of these particular witnesses suggests that their innocence may not be as straightforward as it seems!

Julien Ayotte skillfully introduces a plethora of characters, locations, and events in meticulously structured chapters in Disappearance. The timelines were consistently well-defined, allowing for a seamless reading experience. The reader is able to uncover the identity of the assassin and the mastermind before the law enforcement characters, providing a unique perspective on the unraveling of the mystery. Underneath the surface, there also lingers a constant inquiry into the true identities of the witnesses, intensifying the gripping suspense.

I thoroughly enjoyed how the author subtly managed to make me develop an unexpected fondness for the killer in this book! The chase was filled with excitement, and the assassin's character brought to mind the clever disguises and maneuvers of Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie "Catch Me If You Can." The ingenious unveiling of the connection between the assassin and the mastermind, the cloak-and-dagger feel, and the unexpected twist at the end made the entire reading experience truly enjoyable.

The book is wonderfully edited, with minimal errors, allowing the reader to immerse themselves and savor this delightful work fully. The cover and title were quite fitting and enticing. There was absolutely nothing to dislike about this book, and it deserves a perfect 5 out of 5 stars! I highly recommend this book to those who appreciate the mystery and crime thriller genres. It is ideal for those who relish the thrill of escalating suspense and enjoy unraveling intricate subplots. The outcomes of this book are clever and will surely leave you pleasantly surprised.

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Disappearance
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Gerry Steen wrote: ↑27 Dec 2023, 23:42 Wow, Cara, you have sold me this book with your amazing review. I want to learn more about the witness protection program and enjoy a well-written mystery story at the same time. It looks like this book will do the trick. I am adding it to my bookshelves. Ciao for now!

Sarah Zain wrote: ↑28 Dec 2023, 12:36 The story sounds like an episode of a crime show I used to watch. Fun and exciting at the same time. I loved the way you presented it, Cara. Great work, excellent review.

Cara Wilding wrote: ↑19 Dec 2023, 20:34 [Following is a volunteer review of "Disappearance" by Julien Ayotte.]

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5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The two bullets in Larry Morgan's head were suspicious. The two bullets in Fred Simpson's head were problematic, setting the stage for an unparalleled dilemma for the United States Federal Witness Security Program, famously referred to as WITSEC. With more than 8,000 witnesses, the program had maintained its witness pool for 40 years, but suddenly, they were being summarily executed at an alarming rate.

Paul O'Malley, the head of the U.S. Marshals Service, calls on retired FBI Agent Harry Esten to help staunch the flow of bodies. Harry had previously played a crucial role in placing Larry in the program two decades ago. The search for the killer intensifies after a third witness comes dangerously close to being murdered. Paul and Harry have the critical task of determining whether insiders or outsiders compromised the WITSEC system. The duo never seem to catch a break when it comes to the cunning assassin who always manages to outsmart them. Curiously, the demise of these particular witnesses suggests that their innocence may not be as straightforward as it seems!

Julien Ayotte skillfully introduces a plethora of characters, locations, and events in meticulously structured chapters in Disappearance. The timelines were consistently well-defined, allowing for a seamless reading experience. The reader is able to uncover the identity of the assassin and the mastermind before the law enforcement characters, providing a unique perspective on the unraveling of the mystery. Underneath the surface, there also lingers a constant inquiry into the true identities of the witnesses, intensifying the gripping suspense.

I thoroughly enjoyed how the author subtly managed to make me develop an unexpected fondness for the killer in this book! The chase was filled with excitement, and the assassin's character brought to mind the clever disguises and maneuvers of Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie "Catch Me If You Can." The ingenious unveiling of the connection between the assassin and the mastermind, the cloak-and-dagger feel, and the unexpected twist at the end made the entire reading experience truly enjoyable.

The book is wonderfully edited, with minimal errors, allowing the reader to immerse themselves and savor this delightful work fully. The cover and title were quite fitting and enticing. There was absolutely nothing to dislike about this book, and it deserves a perfect 5 out of 5 stars! I highly recommend this book to those who appreciate the mystery and crime thriller genres. It is ideal for those who relish the thrill of escalating suspense and enjoy unraveling intricate subplots. The outcomes of this book are clever and will surely leave you pleasantly surprised.

******
Disappearance
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Bettny Andrade wrote: ↑28 Dec 2023, 20:18
It is a crime and suspense story full of intrigue. I will keep this book in mind for future reading. I loved your review, it is very complete, thank you very much