28 March 2024

I confess I did not read this book’s blurb before agreeing to participate in the blog tour. However, if I had read it, I would not have participated in the tour or read the book. The idea of an AI Detective is not appealing fiction in my opinion. However, for once not reading a blurb was a good thing because, despite my initial reaction, I found myself loving this book.

When you reach for this one you can expect a gripping thriller that seamlessly weaves together the realms of instinct and logic, introducing you to the dynamic duo of AIDE Lock, the world’s first AI Detective and DCS Kat Frank. The story opens with a shocking crime – the crucifixion of a man at the summit of Mount Judd. This gruesome discovery thrusts Lock and Frank into the limelight as they confront their first live case together.

The author’s storytelling sets a relentless pace, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the investigation unfolds. Lock’s logical approach and Frank’s intuitive instincts create a compelling dynamic that adds depth to the narrative. Their partnership is a key strength of the novel, offering a fresh perspective on crime-solving that blends artificial intelligence with human intuition.

The tension escalates with the discovery of another crucified victim, signalling that the killer is far from finished. The stakes are high and the Future Policing Unit, now under a harsh media spotlight, races against time to unravel the connections between the victims. The author captures the sense of urgency and the growing threat, creating an atmosphere of suspense that lingers throughout the story. The world-building in “Leave No Trace: is brilliant, presenting a near-future setting where AI detectives work alongside human counterparts. This innovative take on crime fiction adds a layer of complexity to the story, exploring the implications of advanced technology in law enforcement.

While the plot is engaging and the character well-developed, there were moments where the pacing felt slightly rushed leaving me yearning for a bit more depth in certain scenes. (That may be because I did not read the first book in the series.) However, the overall impact of the novel is powerful, with an ending that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impression.

I struggled to decide if I liked AIDE Lock or hated him. It felt as if his logical approach slowed things down and Frank was forced to spend a lot of time explaining human nature to him. Yet, by the time I turned the final page, I simply loved this “machine”. While I am not a huge Science fiction fan this book reminded me not to judge a book by its cover and to open myself to different genres.

This book proved to be a thought-provoking and suspenseful thriller that combines elements of traditional detective work with cutting-edge technology. Jo Callaghan delivers a compelling narrative that will appeal to fans of both classic crime fiction and those intrigued by the integration of AI in investigative processes. This book earns a solid four stars for its innovative concept, well-crafted characters and a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.