A Deadly Web
Bishop Files #2
By Kay Hooper
ISBN# 9780515153347
Author’s Website: http://www.kayhooper.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Synopsis:
John Brodie is a Guardian, a member of a secret network devoted to protecting the psychics in his charge from a ruthless—and virtually invisible—enemy.
Tasha Solomon is unaware of the Guardians’ existence—until the night the gifted psychic suffers a shocking and violent attack and Brodie saves her life.
Tough and resilient, Tasha isn’t used to depending on anyone. But the assault has left her vulnerable. Tasha doesn’t know who wants her dead, or why, or when he will strike again. Now, she is forced to trust that Brodie can guide her through a tangled web of danger and deception toward a safe harbor—one she fears is more elusive with each dark and endless night.
Review:
This second book in the Bishop Files series is simply gripping; even more so than the first book. The character development of John Brodie answered many questions I had about his past and what motivates his actions. I enjoyed his character in book one of the series, but with this depth of character revealed along with the “why” he chose to be a Guardian, I really enjoy the path he seems to be following.
This book expands upon the whole ‘psychic’ underground structure, which enabled me to get a better sense of who the ‘bad and good’ guys are and how each side is driven by their own vision. Aside from getting to know Brodie better, the reader gets further glimpses into Duran (the bad guy) and his plans and schemes. A dark character for sure but with what seemed like a code of honor? It was (and is) hard to read Duran. I guess until his full story has been told, he will remain an enigma. A scary, dark, vengeful enigma. Speaking of scary….those shadows sure are creepy!
Tasha is a strong and vibrant character. She has lived with her abilities all her life and knows how to protect herself….until she can’t. That is when the Guardian appears (Brodie) and life as Tasha has known it disappears. I like the personal relationship development between Tasha and Brodie. It was approached and executed with caution and respect. He does often shoot straight from the hip, so to speak. It was certainly an eye opener when Brodie found the tracking devices in Tasha’s home after the invasion. She then realized that she did indeed need help in protecting herself. I connected with Tasha on the dog front. I liked that she took healthy scraps home for Max, the mixed breed dog next door. And Max had such manners!
I would say the defining moment for me is when Tasha’s psychic abilities and connections are tested by Duran. The maze is scary and I literally was on the edge of my seat.
My heart strings were pulled when reading the storyline about the plight of Annabel Blake. Poor, poor child. To be born psychic, with no direction, in foster care….and being hunted by the dark side. Whew….You will see when you read her side story for yourself.
Once character which I am still getting a handle on is Murphy. In tight with Brodie but there is some association with Duran as well. I just am not able to figure out which side she is truly on. Of course, that may be the point…in which case, very good writing 🙂 . Her character alone will definitely require a second read of the series once I have read all the books. Just too many nuances, twists and turns to keep straight.
I was glad to see that Noah Bishop went into the field, be visible in a covert way along with his wife Miranda. It made Bishop’s role more inclusive in this psychic journey they are all on. And the inclusion of Sarah and Tucker from book one was great and added so much to the continuity and flow of the two stories. It was like being reunited with old friends. Interesting to see how their psychic abilities had morphed and changed and that their love has stayed the course.
I am delighted with this second book in the Bishop Files series and can hardly wait for book three. This continuation of the Bishop Files story answers some outstanding questions from the first book, while definitely creating more questions….which I sincerely hope are answered in the next book 🙂
