A Killer’s Code

A dead man’s riddles and secrets force an FBI task force to chase clues across the country. What a thriller! A Killer’s Code by Isabella Maldonado is filled with suspense and danger. Featuring FBI Special Agent Daniela Vega, her supervisor, Special Agent in Charge Steve Wu, civilian analyst Sanjeev Patel, and from the New York police department, Detective First Grade Mark Flint, this novel starts with an intriguing prologue and builds to an action-packed finale.

During a recent undercover operation, hit man Gustavo Toro died in the arms of Vega. In the event of his death, he left behind a video that promises to expose a criminal mastermind. As Vega, Wu, Patel, and Flint traverse the country following Toro’s coded clues, they start to piece together his past. However, there are others working to stop them from finding the evidence.

Vega is a former Army Ranger and has significant code-breaking skills. She’s strong, loyal, intelligent, cunning, brave, and has excellent reflexes. However, she isn’t very tactful, seems to attract danger, and has an unconventional way of thinking that others don’t always understand. Wu is courageous, analytical, capable, has vision, and is a great leader. Patel specializes in cybercrime and all things technical. He’s not a fighter, but is extremely intelligent. Flint has previously worked with the FBI and is trusted by Wu.

The author brings her law enforcement experience to the page, adding realism and grit. While this book has flashbacks, it didn’t distract me or slow the pace for me. The multiple points of view also worked well. In fact, this is one of the best thrillers I’ve read in 2024.

The storyline is gripping and immediately grabs a reader’s attention. This riveting thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Along with a solid and thrilling plot, relatable characters, and excellent world-building, the twists, surprises, action, and suspense demanded my attention. I also enjoyed learning more about the personal life of Vega and how it has shaped her as a person. Themes explored include justice, power, greed, corruption, murder, secrets, codes, family, a hint of romance, and much more.

 Overall, this engaging book has twists, tension, violence, and was hard to put down. It’s also thought-provoking and suspenseful. While this is the first book I’ve read in the series, I want to go back and read the first two. It worked as a stand-alone novel for me, but does have a spoiler or two for the earlier books. I recommend reading the series in order and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Thomas and Mercer and Isabella Maldonado provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 21, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.