Assessment:
Plot: This story of a young female investigate reporter encountering dangerous and traumatic circumstances in New York is an interesting one, but the book’s intentions do not become entirely clear. It seems the rest of Mary’s story is to be continued, but this first book ends on a somewhat unsatisfying precipice.
Prose/Style: The prose is clear and straightforward, serving the story well. It would, however, benefit from a thorough professional edit.
Originality: The concept of witnessing an attack on One World Trade Center is a familiar one, but Chanler capably captures the unsettling events for readers.
Character Development/Execution: Characters are finely developed—most notably, Howard Peters, who is painted as evil incarnate without becoming a caricature.
Date Submitted: May 25, 2021
