Threatening fake commemorative plaques, vigilante killings, a Jewish community in an English town – what’s the link? The clock is ticking to the next murder.
After witnessing a racist incident in a small Hertfordshire town, journalist Shanna Regan uncovers a series of threatening fake commemorative plaques. Each of these historic markers highlights someone’s misdemeanour rather than a good deed.
Delving deeper, Shanna discovers these plaques are linked to vigilante killings spanning several decades, with ties to the local Jewish community.
As her search for the truth becomes personal, Shanna puts her own life in danger. Can she stop the next murder in time?
The Redeemer is a compelling, thought-provoking murder mystery debut, featuring themes of prejudice and racism, identity and heritage, revenge and redemption, and secrets from the past.
Set in Hertfordshire, England (UK) some of the topics/themes touched upon included bullying, anti-semitism, racism, religion, vulnerability, secrets, shocking revelations and a search for the truth. It also addresses a lot of misconceptions that breed hate.
A powerful opening had me right there in the moment — a surge of emotion raced through me so yeah, I was pretty much hooked from the get go! I loved the concept of this novel and how the MC’s (Shanna) writing a story on historical plaques leads her to finding one (a plaque) that has its own story and in turn has her uncovering some uncomfortable things.
Shanna is a journalist – both Irish and Jewish heritage but she hides her Jewish side. She is a freelance writer for a local magazine. I found her to be driven and determined while also fighting to hide what she perceives as a weak and vulnerable side to herself. Secrets from her own past come out and we learn a lot about her through this information.
There was quite a literary feel to this cosier side of crime novel. It definitely has mystery rather than thriller vibes but good pacing, with short chapters that had me wanting to read just one more! There were also a few OMG moments that really added to the tension and suspense.
A new and distinctive voice has entered the world of crime fiction. Welcome Victoria!! The Redeemer was thought-provoking, poignant, tense and a great mystery to boot. I hope there’s more to come from Shanna as I am definitely a fan! Highly recommended!
