Jennifer Jeffries, a young Texan traveling in London, is kidnapped, becoming the victim of a violent assault. When she survives, the British detective in charge of her case needs her to testify against the serial killer who attacked her. Led by a tough ex-Special Forces sergeant with a warrior’s mindset, her witness protection team tries to support her as she prepares to appear in one of London’s Crown Courts. This British detective suspense novel moves from a realistic depiction of the female protagonist’s PTSD to fast-paced courtroom scenes to the difficulties that traumatized individuals face as they struggle to regain personal power.

The Witness breaks new ground by showing the enduring effects trauma can have on a life. The first of a trilogy, this work of crime suspense fiction contains the same psychological intensity as Anna Quindlen’s Black and Blue, but while Ms. Quindlen’s protagonist endures, Ms. Kryske’s triumphs. Strong, complex male characters make this novel an entertaining, inspiring, and compelling read.

Recommended to book clubs by 1 of 1 members.