Review of The Unknown Puppeteer

[Bertha Jackson]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Unknown Puppeteer" by Deborah DR Kralich.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

In 1972, Sally Monroe tells her twin brother, Buddy, farewell as he leaves for Vietnam. She walks back into her house, where her baby is, and is murdered. Her husband, Ted, and the baby are never seen again. Eleven years later, suspected serial killer Castroe Zopev disappears after he is acquitted of the murders of Sally Monroe, Yolanda Cardioxa, Donna Lewegz, and Jan Smith. Princess Joanna Scarparttie, an Italian actress, comes to Sand Waves, Texas's gated community, to escape her pending marriage to Sheik Abdul Mahlah and to be in a movie in the new studio. During one of the movie's scenes, Officer Plate and his fiancé, Daphne, plan to have an all-expense-paid wedding. The production of the movie and the wedding are put on hold after a police officer and another woman are murdered, and someone attacks Princess Joanna. Who assaulted Princess Joanna? Was this assault another murder attempt? Has Castroe Zopev returned to Sand Waves? Where are Ted and the baby? To solve these mysteries, get a copy of The Unknown Puppeteer by Deborah DR Kralich.

The author adequately demonstrated the difficulties investigators had when computer technology first came out, and most police departments did not have computers to assist them with their investigations. Each character is fully developed as their role is played out in the story. Princess Joanna is realistic as an impatient, spoiled, and temperamental royal. Daphne's insurance agent role mixed nicely with the rest of the plot. Multiple times, I thought I knew who the killer was, but then there would be another development, and I was unsure. It was easy to understand why emotional eyewitness testimony was unreliable. I appreciate that everything was recapped at the end of the book to confirm who the murderer(s) was and their motive. This book is the fourth one in the series about Police Officer Plate and Daphne, but it is unnecessary to read the prior books to read this one because each book is different.

I found nothing to dislike about this murder mystery. This well-written book flows smoothly and has been professionally edited. There was never a time when the story did not rivet me due to the suspense and mystery. I never had to refer to the "Cast of Characters" at the beginning of the book, as the characters were easy to follow, even though there was an Elisabeth and an Elizabeth.

The professional editing, positive aspects, and lack of negative aspects in this book make it deserve 5 out of 5 stars. Nothing in this suspenseful book justifies the removal of any stars, which is why I gave it a perfect score.

I recommend this book to adults who enjoy reading romance and crime mysteries. You may want to avoid this book if religion is offensive to you, as God plays a role in this story. I will also caution readers that this book does contain non-borderline profanity.

******
The Unknown Puppeteer
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Amy Luman]

Romance is not my favorite, but murder is! If you had difficulty figuring out who the killer is then I would imagine it would be nearly impossible for me. I seem to have a really hard time following clues. Thank you for another great review!

[Kutloano Makhuvhela]

Thank you for taking your time to read and review this book. I will be glad to read it myself because it looks like a book I would enjoy, after reading your review. Amazing job.

[Nenye Charles]

I truly wonder how puppets are related to the story, as it’s used in children’s funtime. This sounds like an intriguing mystery that I would love to read. Thanks for a great review.

[Nenye Charles]

I truly wonder how puppets are related to the story, as it’s used in children’s funtime. This sounds like an intriguing mystery that I would love to read. Thanks for a great review.

[Nenye Charles]

I truly wonder how puppets are related to the story, as it’s used in children’s funtime. This sounds like an intriguing mystery that I would love to read. Thanks for a great review.

[Nenye Charles]

I truly wonder how puppets are related to the story, as it’s used in children’s funtime. This sounds like an intriguing mystery that I would love to read. Thanks for a great review.

[NetMassimo]

The murder mystery seems interesting but romance is not my thing and the religious element seems to heavy for my taste, so I'll probably skip this novel. Regardless, thank you for your great review!

[RutvikPatel]

"The Unknown Puppeteer" by Deborah DR Kralich is a well-crafted murder mystery that delves into the challenges of early computer technology in police work. The character development is commendable, and the plot keeps readers guessing. The recap at the end ensures clarity. This professionally edited book deserves 5 stars, suitable for adults who enjoy romance and crime mysteries with a touch of religion.