Judgment by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Description:
When a coed falls prey to a sadistic killer, forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy and Special Agent Atticus Spenser are called in to testify—one for the defense, one for the prosecution. With warring approaches on justice, these two rivals have been butting heads for years—both in the courtroom and out. And at first, this case appears to be no different.

But when a brutal attack leaves the accused man dead and Caity in critical condition, petty differences take a backseat to saving lives. As the lone survivor, Caity knows too much and the killer—a madman calling himself the Man in the Maze—is coming back for round two. Now, Caity and Spense must join forces to uncover the killer’s identity before Caity’s time—and luck—runs out.

Review:

How does an 18 year old deal with the death of her father, via lethal injection…administered by the Arizona State prison? By becoming a discriminating forensic psychiatrist specializing in cases of the falsely accused, naturally. Now Caitlin’s “bleeding heart” public persona is under attack – the near fatal kind! – when she’s linked to the defense of a killer. Will she be too obstinate to allow the protection of FBI agent, Atticus Spenser (the name alone makes me swoon)…the man who may (or may not) have a similar effect on Caitlin? Carey Baldwin is back, baby! And not only is Judgment cause for new release celebration, it’s the two secondary characters she’s brought forth from the background of Confession (review available here). In spite of their brief appearance, Caitlin and Atticus piqued interest. In Judgment, they shine center stage.

“I’m afraid there’s no question about it. We have a very dangerous and very determined criminal still at large, so I’m going to need you to stick like glue to Agent Spenser for the time being.”

When clues formulate theories, and motives are contemplated, Spense and Caity brainstorm a profile. Collaboration sparks an attraction, but more significantly – it allows them to recognize and admire each other’s particular expertise. The layers are stacking up; this kind of compatibility builds the foundation of a great relationship. From the onset, passion simmers (anew?), but Caity is determined to remain professional. How long can she detain Spense at arm’s length?

Ms. Baldwin builds up the mystery with sparsely provided Intel from the psychopath. She grips the audience with details of psychological assessments; profile analyses that were downright chilling. The assault in the car?! You better believe I checked my back seats! Paranoia aside, the examples provided clearly stem from Ms. Baldwin’s experience as a psychologist. I hope this profession has counseling and support with their own experts to decompress. This is disturbing, but compelling storytelling.

Judgment was unconventional in its sequence of events. More than once it felt disjointed by random revelations from the killer; insight seemed to be out of place/order. Having finished Judgment, I recognize a labyrinth theme/style cleverly utilized by Ms. Baldwin. She knows how to keep you intrigued.

It’s always a joy to read new material from Carey Baldwin. Judgment is no exception. I would have liked more exploration of their personal relationship. Spense has a situational eccentricity; a tell, if you will, when pressed. I expect to meet a gentler, romantic Atticus capable of sweeping the unflappable Caitlin off her feet (he’s already won me over!) If the conclusion is any indication, the Walk of Fame Killer is wreaking havoc in my hometown of Los Angeles. There is more to learn, and love, from Spense and Caity.   

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author