Author: Tee Michaels

ISBN: 0967857406

The following review was contributed by: NORM GOLDMAN:  Editor of Bookpleasures &CLICK TO VIEW  Norm Goldman's Reviews       

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Accuser of the Brethren weaves the story of one woman’s terrifying story through the experience of having been stalked by a serial killer.

Tee Michaels has built her mystery narrative around twenty-five year old Celeste Tyler, a very courageous woman, who, at a tender age, overcomes physical and emotional disabilities- the result of a terrible and traumatic accident. Apparently, as we discover towards the end of the novel, Celeste unfortunately had been at the wrong place at the wrong time, when her father, in the middle of a frightening scrap with her mother, heaved a chair in the air and unintentionally fractured Celeste’s skull.

Sadly her father did not stay around to care for Celeste, and as a result, her older brother, Kevin gave up his job and devoted several years in supporting and helping in her rehabilitation.

Eventually, after recovering from the ordeal, Celeste was able to find employment in a modelling agency, much to the objections of brother Kevin. 

At the heart of the story is the chase or stalking by a serial killer, who continuously harasses Celeste with a serious of terrifying telephone calls eventually leading to a showdown between the two.

The author shows a great deal of promise, however, there should have been more attention to character and plot development. For example, romance is hinted at between our heroine Celeste and co-worker, Spencer Wright, however, we never seem to get a grip on the depth of their relationship, until some bizarre behaviour on the part of Spencer occurs during the last chapters of the book. 

Moreover, it is not just the ending that I felt was incomplete, although the author did indicate that there will be a sequel, the novel seems to lack cohesion. I was left with the impression that I was reading a series of thrills and chills rather than a well-developed unrelenting mystery. In other words, the various flashes of excitement are not adequately integrated into a coherent realized work.

That said, definitely give this book a try, as I must admit it is nevertheless a page- turner, and I sincerely hope that the author will continue to work on polishing her writing skills.