Distortion by Terri Blackstock

Distortion by Terri Blackstock

To this mystery fan, Terri Blackstock’s novel, Distortion, scores high in the suspense category but has a disappointing conclusion.  The story begins with action. Juliet Cole’s doctor husband is murdered in a drive by shooting at a rental facility. Juliet’s grief is portrayed as physical, emotional and very intense.  As the investigation begins, she must come to grips with the possibility of her husband’s secret life. Her family provides support for Juliet and her two sons.  Her two sisters, an attorney and a PI, investigate the murder, discovering pertinent clues and a possible suspect.  A master of twists and turns, the author takes the reader on an exciting trip that involves threatening phone calls, kidnapping and more murder. I could not put the book down. But, then, the conclusion came too soon and too abruptly.   Juliet’s emotions, so explicitly described in the beginning, were quickly summed up. Her feelings that led to an important family decision were never explained.  Since Distortion is part of a series, or family saga, I can assume that Juliet’s story will be continued in another volume. But, as a reader so immersed in this situation in this novel, I expected more closure.  On a positive note, the Christian message is strong throughout the book.  Overall, this is a deftly written novel, an enjoyable read, but too many loose ends were left dangling. I know, I should read the next volume.  I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to  write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.