Blood in the Water

Set in Boston, the pseudonymous Flynn’s propulsive debut, a series launch, introduces FBI special agent Kit Steel, who’s nicknamed the Hunter for her intense sleuthing skills. Kit is laser-focused on Vincente Carpio, a psychopath who wants the police to know he’s murdering Americans as revenge against U.S. soldiers who stormed his native village in El Salvador when he was a child. Vincente also has the backing of MS-13, an uber-dangerous international criminal gang; his older brother is one of its high-ranking captains. Kit’s investigation also spins on revenge—MS-13 killed her husband and six-year-old son. To expand its reach, MS-13 turns its attention to Boston harbormaster and union chief Cormack O’Connell, who, legally and illegally, controls the city’s waterfront. To reach Cormack, MS-13 targets his 19-year-old daughter. The action-packed plot quickly escalates as international intrigue and personal betrayals intersect. Kit is a solid heroine, but the complicated Cormack emerges as the most intriguing character. Thriller fans will eagerly await the sequel. Agent: Aaron Priest, Aaron M. Priest Literary. (Sept.)