by Cynthia Chow

Details at the end of this post on how to enter to win a copy of A Disguise to Die For, along with a link to purchase the book where a portion goes to help support KRL & an indie bookstore.

Chicago freelance videographer Ellie Foreman’s assignment for Delcroft Aviation has her filming promotional videos for the military and civilian aircraft manufacturer. While most of Delcroft’s profits stem from their military contracts, Ellie’s task is to produce storybook videos that will be promoted on their social media sites, revealing a softer side of the company. While reviewing shots with her editor, they notice the constant presence of one figure in the background. Gregory Parks had introduced himself to Ellie as a consultant, and although she questioned his story, she couldn’t help but be charmed by the handsome Asian man. So she’s furious when the Vice-President Charlotte Hollander has a visible reaction to seeing Parks in the video, then abruptly fires Ellie for incompetence. Reeling from the sting to her ego, Ellie contacts Parks and demands that they meet. Instead of an explanation, Parks jumps, or is pushed, in front of a CTA train.

Feeling guilty, but unwilling to risk losing her reputation by getting involved, Ellie refrains from coming forward as a witness. What she does do is secretly retrieve the Marlboro cigarette box Parks last held, along with the encrypted flash drive hidden inside. Using the assistance of an ethical hacker, a familiar FBI agent, as well as Ellie’s own boyfriend, and family, Ellie delves into the politically murky worlds of drone warfare, espionage, and religious persecution. Ellie often may act more rashly than wisely, but spurring her on is her need to use her skills to merit out the closest thing to justice as is possible in a world of gray.

Hellmann’s considerable talent lies in educating readers while also entertaining them through the viewpoint of a very likable and engaging heroine. Previous entries have had Ellie learning about Judaism through the tales of her very sharp 94 year-old father, and here the author explores the wrenching tale of Uyghurs, Turkish-Asian Muslims being tormented by their home country of China. The very timely issue of the privatization and profiteering of our country’s security is also placed at the forefront, but the politics never overshadow what is at heart a very compelling mystery led by an engaging and sympathetic heroine. This delightful series exists within the same world as Hellman’s Georgia Davis novels, and the intersection of their characters continues to be a rewarding treat.

To enter to win a copy of Jump Cut, simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line “jump,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen March 19, 2016. U.S. residents only. If entering via email please include your mailing address, and if via comment please include your email address.

You can use this link to purchase this book & a portion goes to help support KRL & indie bookstore Mysterious Galaxy:

Jump Cut

Check out other mystery articles, reviews, book giveaways & mystery short stories in our mystery section.

Cynthia Chow is the branch manager of Kaneohe Public Library on the island of Oahu. She balances a librarian lifestyle of cardigans and hair buns with a passion for motorcycle riding and regrettable tattoos (sorry, Mom).