Codex
by Lisa Towles
Indies United Publishing House


"I was sustaining myself while the stages of grief and loss bit thick chunks out of my soul."

Over a year ago, Angus Mariner survived a car accident, but his wife did not. Because of that, he became an alcoholic. Now, he is trying to get his life back on track. One day, the police find a dead body near Angus' trailer on the beach. They question him, and he explains that he fled the scene when he heard the gunshots. A few days later, a stranger named Wendell Peters approaches Angus in a bar. Wendell offers to give him a helicopter, but Angus declines the offer. The next morning, Wendell is found dead. Detective Walt Dekker sees Angus as a potential suspect because he has been connected to two murders. The more Angus tries to find evidence to clear his name, the more he realizes that Wendell's death might be connected to his wife's death.

In her work, Towles masterfully illustrates how loss and grief affect us. The author takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and healing through the character of Angus, a grieving husband who turns to alcohol as a coping mechanism. However, the author also highlights the protagonist's determination to overcome his addiction and move forward with his life. This work is not only a gripping murder mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats but also a poignant portrayal of the resilience of a person’s spirit. Each character has a unique voice that is relatable and authentic. The dialogue is well-crafted, offering a window into the characters' personalities and motivations. Overall, this is a powerful and thought-provoking story that provides valuable insights into the human experience. Readers will find themselves engrossed in the twists and turns of the plot while also gaining a deeper understanding of the profound impact of tragedy on individuals and communities.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review

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