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Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
“Look, people come and go in places like this. You don’t ask questions unless you want to get stuck with the answers.” This sentiment captures the essence of Sins in Black by Dita Dow, where many questions seek answers and countless dirty secrets yearn for revelation. The story centers on Detective Harlie Whitlock, a former big-city cop who reluctantly returns to Sinister Falls, the hometown she vowed never to revisit. As Harlie reflects on her life and choices, she receives a call about a murder scene that is not what it appears. Although her boss insists that she close the case quickly, Harlie is determined to continue her investigation. She discovers that the apparent murder of the girl, who was searching for her parents, is linked to the mystery of another woman who was “erased” decades earlier. Determined to reveal the truth, Harlie learns that some doors are closed for a reason, because once they are opened, they can shape a reality of their own.
Sins in Black by Dita Dow is a gritty and engaging masterwork of suspense with a healthy dose of neo-noir. The plot follows a familiar concept: a big-city detective returns to her hometown and joins the local police department, where she uncovers a conspiracy. However, the brilliance lies in the execution, highlighting themes of courage, the strength to confront inner demons, and the importance of accountability. Character development in the novel is commendable. The protagonist, Harlie, is portrayed as a strong and courageous woman, yet she is deeply flawed. The villains are not depicted as purely evil; rather, they are individuals trapped by their weaknesses and mistakes. With a narrative that maintains a steady pace and picks up at just the right moments, Sins in Black is an excellent choice for fans of crime stories, suspenseful tales, and well-crafted mysteries.
