A review by laurenjodi
Sacred Evil by Heather Graham

4.0

Sacred Evil
4 Stars

Following the discovery of a mutilated corpse, NYPD detective Jude Crosby is forced to admit that this murder and two previous deaths may be the work of a Jack the Ripper copycat. When a unique FBI unit specializing in the unexplained is called in, Jude must work with Agent Whitney Tremont and accept that their are some things fact and logic cannot explain including his undeniable attraction to the spunky special agent.

I originally decided to discontinue the series after the first two lackluster installments, but decided to give this one a go upon learning that it revolved around Jack the Ripper, and I am glad that I did.

The historical background and research into Jack the Ripper's original crimes and the possibility that he continued his murderous spree in NYC is detailed and interesting. The descriptions of the crimes both past and present is realistic but not overwhelming and the mystery is compelling with several plausible suspects that keep you guessing right up until the end. The X-File like paranormal elements merge well into the story, and although the climax is a little rushed it is ultimately satisfying and the epilogue left me smiling.

Jude and Whitney have an intense and palpable attraction and their opposites attract romance is the best in the series. Jude is a "just the facts ma'am" investigator - logical, honorable and sexy in his diligence. Whitney is fierce and insightful but wary of accepting her gift. Together they make an excellent team both in and out of the bedroom.

The secondary characters are another highlight. Jude's father, the enigmatic ME, the down and out Vietnam Vet and the ghost dog all contribute to the overall story as do the other Krewe members who make their appearance halfway through and remain in the background.

The writing is good although there are some annoying editorial errors that detract from the flow but nothing too drastic.

Overall, the solid mystery and captivating romance has convinced me to give the series another try.