James LePore delivers once again. “Blood of My Brother,” his second novel in the Tristate Trilogy, centers around Jay Cassio, a NJ attorney who’s spent most of his life shutting people out following the tragic deaths of his parents. And now, his childhood friend, confidante and protector, private investigator Dan Del Colliano, is found murdered in Florida, tortured in his last moments while working on a case.
Who would want to kill fun-loving Danny? Jay sets out to find out, but quickly learns the situation is more than he bargained for. He suspects Donna Kelly, the woman who hired Dan, set him up, but she’s gone into hiding after being pursued by two Mexican hitmen. These assassins work for Herman Santaria, a corrupt businessman whose illegal dealings with Bryce Powers, the estranged husband of Jay’s now-dead client, not only made them both rich, but helped propel Santaria and his family to the high ranks of Mexican government. Anyone who stands in the way of the Santarias getting what they want will be done away with, as will the people who helped them because they know too much.
Jay only wants to avenge Dan’s death, but if he’s not careful, he’ll have the same fate. Especially since FBI Special Agent Chris Markey is using Jay to draw out Santaria and his men. With the help of friends in all levels of law enforcement, Jay closes in on the truth, but will he live to tell about it?
James LePore expertly weaves together stories of past and present in this wonderful suspense novel. On the surface it may only look like a tale packed with sensational money laundering schemes, shady government officials, drug cartel violence and red tape, things LePore probably encountered often in his years as a lawyer. However, it is the skilled way in which he unveils the underlying motives behind these predicaments where LePore shines. He explores the themes of revenge, redemption and morality through a cast of intriguing characters each fighting their own demons. It is only by relying on one another that they make peace with their former lives and move forward with their destiny.
Filled with heartache, passion and thrilling action, “Blood of My Brother” is a compelling read that will keep you up at night. I highly recommend to all.
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