Erica Orloff Trace of Doubt

Trace of Doubt

Erica Orloff

Silhouette Bombshell, Aug 2006, $4.99

ISBN: 0373514174

Forensic criminologist Billie Quinn of The Genetic Testing laboratory did not trust witnesses as many misstate the facts with conviction or suspects may lie. She preferred hardcore data like DNA that works one hundred percent of the time without falsehoods. Her recent involvement in the David Falco case (see TRACE OF INNOCENCE) has thrown her world belief upside down.

However, her current case involving the conviction of Marcus Hopkins has national attention but takes an odd frightening spin when someone surfaces who knows too much first hand information about her murdered mother, killed years ago. Billie sees an opportunity for justice finally coming to her mom and to her as this has been the tragic event that has motivated her career. However, her unknown assailant has plans for Billie to star in the replay of the scene in which the culprit killed her mother.

Billie's obstinacy can be a two edged sword for the audience as she refuses to back down especially on this investigation, but makes poor decisions that constantly place her in peril yet also brings excitement to her over the top inquiry. Still the story line is action-packed and like its predecessor brings into question a justice system that seeks unreliable closure not valid outcomes.

Harriet Klausner