Policeman Michael Papadakos is brutally murdered after intervening in a fight between two drunks. The man is charged but his policewoman wife Maria and son Nicholas are swallowed by grief and loss.
Soon after, a series of murders begin occurring, always in public places surrounded by crowds and noisy distractions, and during the day. There appears to be no motive for the deaths. But there are two links between the crimes - all have been strangled to death, and all but one have heterochromia - two different coloured eyes.
An arrest is made, but the hooded Jake Livingstone that has been seen close to all the crime scenes, denies any part in it. Then what role does he play in all of this?
Jonathan, Michael’s patrol partner is no closer to solving the mystery. He is forced to use a decoy to draw out and finally uncover the identity of the murderer. But what he discovers is beyond belief!
This slim volume is well written and hooks the reader by dropping the required red herrings to add a dilemma and more mystery. For a class of Year 10 students, this is a good effort and well done.
- this review by Anastasia Gonis
Title: The Tightening Grip
Author: Anita Heiss & St Laurence’s College Student Writers
Publisher: $20 RRP
Publication Date: November 2012
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780646586267
For ages: 14+
Type: YA Fiction
