***** Enthralling Unforgettable Suspense —– Review by Rox Burkey
Lisa Towles delivers an exceptional piece of literature in her latest release, “Specimen.” The blending of science, suspense, and intrigue makes the thriller a reader-grabber. The relatable protagonist’s summer, 17-year-old Thea Riggs, takes an unexpected and dark turn when entangled in a mysterious death. The first-person narrative conveys emotional struggles and strategic thinking. The tension escalates when Thea discovers the body of Roberta Fenning. Her sense of fear and determination is palpable. The young hero’s journey is a gripping mix of personal growth, friendship, and an urgent need to clear her name as she navigates a web of corporate greed and high-stakes intrigue.
Lisa Towles’ succinct writing style and meticulous attention to detail perfectly illustrate DNA research and the associated ethical concerns. The masterful depiction of the internet puzzle game that connects the characters and the crime adds a modern twist that enhances the novel’s appeal. As Thea probes deeper into solving the mystery, the game designers’ clues intertwine with the unfolding drama, creating a fresh, engaging narrative.
Readers will enjoy the relationships between characters, including Thea’s bond with her best friend, Fergus, and their resourceful ally, Kit Fury, which adds depth to the narrative. The dynamics among the characters are well-developed, making them feel authentic and enhancing the emotional stakes of the plot. The supporting cast, including the kind-hearted Uber driver Bharat, contributes to the richness of the story as it pushes Thea to confront challenges in unexpected ways. “Specimen” addresses significant themes such as family, friendship, identity, and the moral implications of scientific advancement, all wrapped in a suspenseful narrative that feels pertinent in today’s world.
“Specimen” is a thrilling ride that will keep fans turning pages, eager to uncover the next clue and unravel the mystery alongside Thea. Lisa Towles continues to gather fans with outstanding storytelling that is impossible to set aside until the truth is revealed. Excellent!
About the Author
Lisa Towles is an Amazon bestselling and award-winning crime novelist and a passionate speaker on fiction writing, creativity, and self-care. She has twelve crime thrillers in print with a new thriller, Specimen, forthcoming in December of 2024. Her 2023 thriller, Terror Bay, won a NYC Big Book Award, Literary Titan Award, and is a Crimson Quill Awardee from Book Viral. Her 2022 thriller Salt Island won five literary awards and is the second book in her E&A Investigations Series. Lisa’s deep commitment to helping other authors led her to develop her Author Spotlight blog and her new YouTube author interview series, Story Impact, which gives authors a powerful medium for promoting themselves as speakers and discussing the meaning and impact of their books to readers. Lisa has an MBA in IT Management is a communications and marketing advisor, and is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers.
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