Vengeance is Mine by Michael Wood

 

This standalone isn't as dark as Wood's Matilda Darke series. Perhaps because it has taken him more than twenty years to publish it, and he has perfected the dark, twisty murder mysteries for which he is now known, "Vengeance is Mine" isn't a typical Michael Wood book. That's not to say this isn't a good book because it is; it just wasn't what I expected.

Dominic Griffiths has been in prison for twenty years for the abduction and murder of a thirteen-year-old girl, a crime he swears he can't remember committing. It has since been found that a prescription drug he was on at the time had a personality-altering side effect. Now, he is being released with a hefty settlement from the drug company, and few people are happy about his release, least of all the police and the girl's parents.

On the eve of Dominic's release, Dawn Shepherd's mother confesses that Dominic is Dawn's father. Not sure how she feels about that, Dawn is determined to get to know her father and the family she didn't think she had. In doing so, Dawn uncovers family secrets and raises more questions surrounding the girl's murder. Just who is Dominic, and was he capable of murder?

This is a fast-paced psychological thriller. When I thought I knew where the story was going, a twist sent me in another direction. Red herrings galore and unreliable characters make for a fascinating read. While not what I was anticipating, this book is a terrific read. 

4/5 stars.

Thank you, NetGalley and One More Chapter, for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is June 29, 2024.

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