The road to Jade Thyme’s quest to become a partner should be straightforward, and the defense of her latest client, her ex-husband Mayor Jules Cranbury, should be the final feather in her cap. However, despite her success, she finds herself embroiled in danger that threatens her life and those she loves. A secret society has placed itself as judge, jury, and executioner and will stop at nothing to keep its circle secret.
The Unraveling by Joanna Vander Vlugt is the first book in her Jade and Sage Thriller series, and this book will absolutely pull you to the edge of your seat and whet your appetite for more. Jade’s in for quite the roller coaster when she successfully defends her ex-husband from a murder rap. Usually, in law, winning a case gets you noticed by the higher-ups. It puts you on the fast track to the promotion you want, in Jade’s case—partner. What she gets instead is embroiled in danger that swirls all around her. Who can she trust? Who is after her? Who targeted Jules, and why? Settle in and brace yourself because this thriller will be a real page-turner.
When taking on a case, the last thing anyone expects is to become a target. Jade thinks taking Jules’s case is going to be a straightforward thing. Jules is many things, but a murderer? Not in her mind. Apparently, though, Jules has crossed the wrong person—or persons—and they intend to make sure he never discloses the information he claims to have.
The Unraveling focuses heavily on Jade as she fights to unravel the mystery she finds herself in. The author shoots for the stars with a shock element scene when Jules is discovered killed. The way the scene is depicted almost makes it seem like a mob hit. Jaw-dropping and something that will be seared into your mind long after the storyline has moved on. Jade, for sure, will never forget the scene. Just imagine a mob boss saying (in your best Don Corleone voice), “I want his head on a platter.” But the extra little treats are a bonus.
Getting caught up in a twisted game of cat and mouse is the name of the game, but Jade has no idea where or when the “cat” is going to pop up. It’s not just about “solving” who killed Jules but also about keeping herself alive. The people she’s up against don’t know what he told her, and it’s best to tie up all loose ends. As you read, the author will give you a sense of warning here and there.
After a while, you’ll meet Jade’s sister, Sage. She doesn’t play that big of a role in this novel. She shows up at certain crucial moments, but she’s not featured as much as one would expect or hope. Her role is more of an introductory one in this novel. You will get some background on her and some insight into her relationship with Jade. The memories of a particular childhood moment are endearing and humorous.
Jade and a couple of other characters share hints of romance in this novel. However, once again, the question arises—who can she trust? Her fellow lawyer, Keith, seems like someone she should be able to trust. But can she? What about Osmond? He’s a detective on the force supposed to be investigating the death of another murder victim, and he has a habit of showing up to save Jade’s skin more than a few times, but is there more to him than meets the eye? She doesn’t know. A colleague warned her the Society is everywhere. And he would know. He’s one of them, too, and like Jules, he has crossed a line he shouldn’t have.
This novel is packed with drama and suspense that will keep you turning pages to the big revelation. With particular incidents, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the characters who fit the bill for certain attacks. For others, you’ll have to wait for the big reveal to know who was behind certain “accidents.” Now, Jade does contribute to some of the situations she finds herself in. She has good intentions, but we all know that familiar saying—“The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” In her case, her choices nearly get her killed more than once.
The author doesn’t stop with just suspense and intrigue. This story has supernatural elements; the courthouse is one, and Jade being “haunted” by a ghost of a murder victim is another. The supernatural aspect adds another mysterious element to the story because it’s not your “typical” haunting. The spirit shows up at random moments, but it’s only later that she actually manages to communicate effectively with Jade to convey a message she can understand.
When it comes to the characters, the author strives to make them and the situations in which they find themselves true to life. Jade will challenge your sanity during the high-tension scenes where it is a “life or death” situation for her. You’ll be choking on yowls of frustration when she stumbles, has to be dragged, and/or gets hurt. Try to resist yelling at the book because it won’t lessen the frustration or change the situation. LOL!
The moment your alarm bells start to go off, though? Listen to them, and pay close attention to that scene or character setting you off. There’s a reason for it, and it will do you good to take heed—if only Jade had. It would have saved her some of the chaos she has to endure.
Be forewarned, there may be some disappointment with this book. When all the cards are laid out, the author will reveal one last secret. While it will make sense and be understandable, you may still be disappointed that the entire tower doesn’t fall. However, disappointment is part of the game and only adds to the realism of the storyline and characters.
Other than Sage, it’s nice to know Jade has another person in her corner—her secretary Kate. Kate is a boss. Mind you, not “the” boss, but a boss. She is strong and does a fantastic job being there for Jade. While she is a side character, she will draw you to her nonetheless.
The Unraveling is more than just a mystery and suspense thriller. It touches on the dangers of the unknown and how you never truly know someone—especially those you work with, for, and represent as a lawyer. But the author also touches on another subject, addiction. Jade doesn’t necessarily “abuse” her medication, but she exhibits signs of dependence. There aren’t any “preachy” elements to this novel, but the author does bring light to Jade concerning her usage, and she promises to get help. It is a positive element that comes out of the entire story.
Readers who enjoy gripping novels will definitely want to grab this debut novel by Joanna Vander Vlugt. Packed with drama, some red herrings, suspense, and a ton of near misses, this author will be one you look forward to reading more from.
Lesson of the book: Personal or family honor is not worth stealing the life of another simply because they are different.
Cons:
- Wanted more of Sage
- Rocky beginning but levels out
Pros:
- Suspenseful
- Engaging
- Realistic
- Drama filled
- Page-turner
Cover score: 8.7
Overall Book Score: 8.8
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Review by Bunny
Scribble's Worth 
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