A review by mikedeab63
Eyes of the Innocent by Brad Parks

The word that comes to mind for this book is competent. I mean that in a very good way. Only Park's second book (I actually never read the first (yet)), it's the work of a pro. There is nothing ostentatious or showy, but the characters, setting and plot all mix together to form a nice stew and never overstay their welcome. I was a bit wary of the early jokey tone (not that they are poorly done, it's just not my thing) but it rarely intruded into the narrative enough for me to eye roll or cringe.

Just a solid book with a likable lead. It reminded me a lot of Lippman's early Tess books where it was clear she had the characters and the writing skill, but it took a few books for her plotting chops to catch up to her talent and ambition.