Missing Justice

I bought this book in the St. Louis airport, mainly because the author was someone who worked in my law firm 6 or 7 years ago. I was able to finish the book by the time I got off the plane in Philadelphia; it is a quick, entertaining read- and educational too. I don't think I've ever read a murder mystery that talks about land use planning before, let alone Oregon's innovative urban growth boundary that prevents sprawl from gobbling up the countryside.

How would you like the pressure of being compared to James Lee Burke, one of America's most successful--and one of my all-time favorite--mystery writers? Alafair could be accused of sneaking into the industry with her father's credentials, or of trying to emulate her father's style. The accusations would be off by a long shot. With "Missing Justice," Alafair establishes herself as a worthy mystery writer. A one-of-a-kind. Her protagonist, Samantha Kincaid, gets caught up in her second mystery; this one revolves around a missing judge and the web of politics, money, and personal motives behind the judge's disappearance. Alafair's first Kincaid novel, "Judgement Calls," was good, but had its bumpy spots. Here and there, it felt a bit forced. "Missing Justice" is a marked step above, bringing Samantha Kincaid into the forefront of female protagonists. This character is smart, charming, flawed, and tough-as-nails. If I became infatuated with fictional characters, I might do so with Sam. Way to go, Alafair. The plot moves, the twists keep coming, and Samantha refuses to let us stop reading. I can't wait for book three!

After accidently coming across this author on NPR, I've had a chance to read both of her novels, this one and Judgment Calls. Any real fan of mysteries would love her gripping details of a case from start to finish. I could not put this book down! I enjoy this writer's style. Her main character Samantha Kinkaid is awesome! She is clever, witty, and funny to boot! I definitely recommend this book! What a page turner!

Nothing like a great mystery to make the beach tolerable with the family. Missing Justice is a wonderful addition to the Sam Kincaid series by Alafair Burke. Ms. Kincaid is a modern woman trying to keep it all together in life, which is made more complicated by her chosen profession...prosecuting attorney in the DA's office.My favorite aspect of the book is Ms. Kincaid's relationship with her father. I wonder how much his character is modelled after Alafair's famous (and superb author) father. Overall, the character development is very good and the dialogue helps the pages just about turn themselves.I just wish the third installment was available, but I guess I'll have to wait.

Based on the strong recommendation from Michael Connelly, I gave this book a try, and I'm definitely glad that I did. Sam Kincaid is a tough Assistant DA paying her dues in the gritty world of crime and punishment in Portland, Oregon. She gets transferred to the Major Crimes Unit just in time to follow the trail of missing judge Clarissa Easterbrook. She uncovers a great deal of interesting facts along the way, which give the reader keen insight into the political and socio-economic realities of a growing city like Portland. All the while, Sam manages to find time for a personal life made colorful by her friends, hunky boyfriend and supportive father. The pacing of the story is great and accurately reflects the busy hum of modern life. All readers can identify with Sam Kincaid as she struggles to work hard and make a name for herself, but not become cynical and jaded. The verbal exchanges she has with co-workers (cops and lawyers) are tart and no-nonsense, reflecting the pressure of dedicating oneself to the cause of criminal justice.Overall, I think the publishing community will be hearing alot from Ms. Burke in the near future. I liked this book so much, I just picked up her first "Judgment Calls" and can't wait to devour it.