Pattern of Wounds (A Roland March Mystery)

A good followup on the first book.

J. Mark Bertrand writes really interesting novels with 3-dimensional characters that have strengths and weaknesses. The plot line of "Pattern Of Wounds" is both believable and suspenseful, and the subplots really enhance the story. I found it refreshing as well to be able to read a great book and not have to read try to avoid "cuss words." I highly recommend both this novel and Bertrand's other novels. My husband and I are both looking forward to reading future books by this author.

This is an excellent mystery with fast-paced action, and some religious/ philosophical issues raised. As a long-time member of the clergy, I think Bertram's theological understanding is somewhat flawed. What I have believed and taught for years, is that because God gives us free will, we can do terrible things to one another. It's not, as the author seems to think, that God stands by and permits evil; it's that God cannot prevent it without compromising the free will he/she has given us. When my friend was seriously injured in an auto accident by a drunk driver, it was the drunk driver's fault, not God's fault.Despite that quibble, I found the book an excellent read, and intend to order other books in the series. Roland March is an interesting character, who has some flaws, as we all do.

Having very much enjoyed the first Roland March book when it was available for free on Kindle, I didn't hesitate to buy the second book in the series and like the first book, I highly recommend Pattern of Wounds.Pattern of Wounds hits the perfect balance between building and developing upon the interpersonal themes and character development of book one, without attempting to duplicate its tried-and-tested theme and failing to find a voice of its own. This book picks up well from book one, but also stands alone on its own merits for the first time reader.The storyline is unique and well plotted, paced and detailed, keeping the reader engaged throughout the book without ever showing its hand too early.I think that the best crime/thriller novels are those where you feel that you have enough interest in and grasp of the complexities of the book to hazard a realistic guess at the eventual perp (despite the misdirection that the story might be employing) but never enough conviction to make you call it and yell "yes, I nailed it, I was right all along!" when the story eventually unfolds.Win!

A good quick read

This was a really good book. Multiple plot lines to keep you interested, but not enough to totally confuse you. The lead character is flawed but not hopeless, which makes him likable. You know it's a good read when you look forward to getting home after work so you can pick it up again. Definitely will read more of the Roland March series by this author.