A review by asourceoffiction
The Cipher by Isabella Maldonado

challenging dark tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

As a fan of Criminal Minds I loved reading this thriller about a BAU team. At times it went a little 'clinical' in the descriptions, which feels natural when the author worked for the FBI and is clearly speaking from experience. The story is pretty brutal in places, and the abuse that Nina has suffered in her life is not easy to read about. But I think it's handled well, and her strength as a character is fantastic. 

I was hooked by the profiling angle, and really came to like the team's dynamic (particularly between Guerrera and Wade). I'll definitely be checking out the second book in this series!
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