What a clever thriller. “One” is a super-fast, unusual read full of not just hints and clues, but also puzzles. What monster has been killing women in California – and in unusual ways that even highly trained police can’t figure? Special Investigation Team Erin Carter and Special Agent Jim Brandt are up against a serial killer who seems to be toying with them. Known to them only as “X,” he is hard to profile beyond “white male, mid to late thirties, and loner.” He leaves no forensic traces; his victims are all different in age and background, and he attacks at intervals of roughly a month apart in far flung, unpredictable California locations. Alternating, first-person POV chapters spoken by the killer add to the scare factor.
Author Gates knows his subject well, and his characters are likable, dedicated officers struggling through personal problems as well as figuring this seemingly insoluble case. Do they succeed? I didn’t guess the ending, but loved the book. Well done! Five stars!
California Special Agents Jim Brandt and Erin Carter are assigned to investigate the serial murders of women who are being found in body bags. They have all been strangled, but in different ways. As the bodies mount up, a pattern begins to appear. But will they be able to find the answer in time to prevent another murder?
A truly heart-pounding short story that will give you chills, ONE is another masterpiece from author Eric Gates. If you love heart-pounding thrillers you must read this ONE.
I liked this book a lot. Gates is extremely clever, knowledgeable about his subject, and the book is very well-structured. Gates cleverly drops clues - or are they red herrings? - here and there but you're never quite sure until the ending that you've identified the killer. The characters are well-defined and separated from each other - difficult to do when you're talking about dedicated officers who are all following the same clues to the destination - and Gates manages to capture the atmosphere, the sights and sounds of his US locations.
And did I say it was exciting, too? Well it is, very! Well done, Mr Gates, for a compelling and fascinating read.
Another well-planned story, with strong, very human Special Agents and Special Investigators trying to solve a set of serial murders with very few clues to guide them. This story grabbed me right away and didn’t let go until I had to finish it in one sitting. Mr. Gates expertly took me on a twisting, turning ride that kept me guessing right through the end. I will definitely be reading more books by this outstanding writer.
