Cuts Like a Knife

Christian publishing veteran Gilroy debuts as an author (he’s usually the publisher) with a thriller that blends all the elements of the genre: evil criminal, dedicated cop, and exciting ending. Kristen Conner is a detective with the Chicago Police Department, coaches her niece’s soccer team, and struggles with anger. And she’s sure she can catch a serial killer who’s taken up residence in Chicago. Handsome FBI agent Austin Reynolds gravitates to Kristen, who struggles with the patient Dell, a man from church who wants more from Kristen than she’s willing to give, but who also fits the killer’s profile. Sprinkled throughout are diary entries from the killer; poured more liberally is Kristen’s introspection on life, love, family, men, and her fellow detectives, plus a sprinkling of theology, as she struggles to find balance in her world while catching a killer. Genre aficionados may wish for less inner chatter from the intrepid detective and more actual police work, though readers can’t help enjoying this new voice. (Apr.)