Book Link

From Amazon:

The first thriller in the Blackstone and Prescott series by New York Times and USA Today best selling author, Linda S. Prather. Adam Blackstone is challenged to a unique game of chess by a deranged opponent. There won’t be a stalemate, resignation or draw—the only way to win the game is CHECKMATE.

Adam Blackstone’s obsession with serial killers ran deep in his veins. As a psychopath himself, he couldn’t resist the pull towards their twisted minds and brutal crimes.

When he joins forces with FBI agent Samantha Prescott, they return to Blackstone’s birthplace of Lexington, Kentucky to play a dangerous game. But as the stakes rise and the endgame draws near, Blackstone realizes that winning means succumbing to his own darkness and becoming just like the killers he studies.

My Review:

Sam or Samantha is full of sass yet very quick and totally competent as her outward appearance didn’t give off the same vibe. Late to meet her prospective partner, dressed as plain Jane but deadly with a Glock. Checkmate is written skillfully using the game of chess. Agent Blackstone needed a guard, and Sam was who he ended up with. The wit and expertise jumped off the page from the start. Now it’s the next reader who get to find out the rest of the story.