What Can’t Be Seen

Psychologist and Boston PD consultant Gretchen White, the protagonist of this riveting series launch from Labuskes (A Familiar Sight), is haunted by a childhood trauma. When she was eight, Gretchen was found with a bloody knife standing over the stabbed body of her aunt, Rowan White. Edith White, Gretchen’s influential grandmother, persuaded the prosecutor that Gretchen, who had no memory of the event, should not be tried because she may well have just stumbled onto the scene. The policeman involved in the case, Det. Patrick Shaughnessy, believes Gretchen is a murderous sociopath. He stays close to her, often parking across from Gretchen’s apartment for hours waiting for her to slip up and furnish the evidence needed to ensure she receives the punishment she deserves. Meanwhile, Det. Lauren Marconi wants to help Gretchen prove her innocence. This frightens Gretchen, who fears that any further investigation will only serve to establish her guilt. As the two women work the case, they uncover many surprising secrets. The book’s well-constructed plot matches its three-dimensional characters. Psychological thriller fans will be eager for more. Agent: Abby Saul, Lark Group. (May)