T. Jefferson Parker, The Fallen

The Fallen

T. Jefferson Parker

Morrow, Mar 2006, $24.95

ISBN 0060562382

San Diego homicide detective Robbie Brownlaw suffers a head injury that causes his senses to go out of whack. He can suddenly see the colors of someone's emotions when he or she speaks. Adjusting to his new world is not easy until he begins to logically work out the patterns. Soon Brownlaw becomes adept at reading people, especially knowing when they lie.

Back on the job, he and his partner, McKenzie Cortez investigate the murder of San Diego Ethics Authority Enforcement Unit investigator Garrett Asplundh, who was executed while waiting to meet with his estranged wife. Apparently Asplundh discovered major corruption amongst government officials and local financiers that made the investigator a prime target with numerous enemies, all of whom were motivated to see the victim eliminated. Robbie and McKenzie wonder who would actually resort to homicide.

This is a terrific police procedural starring a cop recovering from a terrible head trauma adjusting to a radical change in his senses, while also struggling in his failing relationship with his wife. The storyline strikes a fabulous balance, as the investigation provides insight into the victim's not so stellar life, and into the Brownlaw's personal side to include his wife and his sensorial adaptation on top of a strong inquiry. Far from falling, T. Jefferson Parker is rising to the top of the sub-genre with his latest Brownlaw case.