The Sacred Sin (Estevan Vega) Review

Publisher: PublishAmerica (August 20, 2007)
Paperback: 218 pages
Book from Estevan Vega

Everyone has a past. One that is inescapable. Jude Foster, an L.A. homicide detective, is on the brink of mental collapse. A year ago, he was left for dead by Morgan Cross, a once-close friend and partner. Now, although forced to undergo mindless psychoanalytical diatribes in order to be reinstated into the department, the world apathetically spins on.

When a dead body is found in West Hollywood, an investigation is set in motion and Jude realizes, with the aid of Rachel Cragin, his annoying new interim partner, that the first victim is only the beginning. The markings on the bodies are trails to a more sadistic pattern of evil, one Jude may or may not recognize. But how does someone stop a killer who’'s slaying his victims by stealing their souls, without ever touching them? As the time ticks, the countdown begins. They will have one week to uncover the sacred sin …and the darkness that lies within all men. (Source)

Review
THE SACRED SIN, by Estevan Vega, is a supernatural and psychological thriller about a detective returning to the job after his partner almost killed him. At only eighteen, Vega showcases his extraordinary writing talent in his sophomore book.

This book was a different story for me. I enjoyed the suspense and mystery. Although I did know Estevan was only eighteen when this was published, the writing confirmed that his skill is way beyond his years. The writing was tight and concise, getting right into the story from the first page.

Besides the distinct storyline, Vega created some honest-to-goodness characters. I felt a connection with Jude and his stubbornness to get over the fact that his partner tried to kill him. I know he loved his job and for something like that to get in the way was very difficult to recover from. For as much as Jude disliked Rachel from the start, I liked her. I think she was the ying to his yang and the motivating factor for Jude to get over his problems.

Overall, the story was good. This is a fantastic second novel for such a young author. I was introduced to his writing from his third book, Arson. These two books are like night and day. The immense progression in style and format is astonishing for a three year difference between books. This great achievement gives no doubt in my mind that he is a naturally talented writer with a bright future.

For more information, check out Estevan Vega's website