About The First Cut
It’s 1999 and NYPD Homicide detective John Keegan gets his first solo case. Cassandra Lavelle, an aspiring artist, is found brutally murdered in her apartment, Keegan investigates, seeing early indications that point to her boyfriend.
Just as the case appears cookie-cutter, details of a secret relationship with another man emerge. This older man eludes Keegan, having abandoned his residence and has not been seen at work. The lure of the mystery man draws Keegan in and he attempts an investigation with two suspects. He must choose the right one in order to fulfill the promise of justice he whispered to Cassandra as he encountered her body.
This trip to the past highlights the differences in investigation. The NYPD had just started integrating computers and other advanced tech into their procedures. The scare of Y2K nearly ended that, and Keegan’s first case highlights the benefits and fears of digital investigation.
At the same time, Keegan must manage his developing relationship with investigative reporter Elena Moreno. They look to a looming future but missteps by Keegan and Elena uncover the cracks in their relationship’s foundation. By the time the dust clears, Keegan will feel betrayed and alone, deciding to further engage with his investigation rather than deal with the collapse of his personal life.
In the end, Keegan will realize his life and career depend on how he manages his mistakes more than his successes. The partial justice he delivers to Cassandra and her family and the remnants of his relationship will forever guide his life and help shape him into the man he becomes.
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Author Bio:
I have been writing fiction for decades, with my first novel, Soft Case, releasing in 2001. Since then, I have published eleven books, with four more coming soon.
I think the best way to deliver mysteries is through strong characterization. Told in the first person, the John Keegan books give insights into how work and life impact a detective. Readers will get to know Keegan's thoughts, worries, and hopes as they navigate cases with him. They will also become familiar with the intricacies of investigation every step of the way.
Humor also plays a role in these novels, as I feel it adds levity to a serious subject. Every detective I've known illustrates the need for this so I felt it important to have John Keegan take on this quality.
Reading a mystery should feel satisfying and provide insight into human nature, both how it goes off the rails with the murder and the understanding necessary for the detective to solve the case. That's what I hope you get from reading one of my books, satisfaction and a sense of community with the detective and victims.