Someone Had to Die by Jack Luellen Book Review

About the Book:

There's always the one case that got away, the one with loose ends and a lack of closure that plagues those who investigate it.

For James Butler, a partner in a prestigious boutique law firm in Orange County, that case is the 1985 murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique Camarena in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Though the murder occurred more than 35 years ago, James can't shake the nagging feeling that maybe the investigators missed something. The more James digs into this cold case, the more unwanted attention he gathers from powerful forces on both sides of the border who would prefer to keep the case closed.

Someone Had to Die follows a fictional lawyer as he digs into the true story of Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena's abduction and murder in 1985, drawing from and exposing interviews and facts never before published.

My Review:

This is a very informative novel about Mexico gangs. There is a great deal of recent history included. At times, the narrative stops for an insert of history. I almost felt like I was in a college class on the topic. I was not familiar with the murder of an agent upon which this novel is framed. There is some action but the book by far is more history and characters thinking and talking about possibilities than it is action. Much of the early part of the book speculates on the possible involvement of the CIA. The characters also investigate the various reports of the crime and the possible flaws in the initial investigation. About two thirds of the way through the book, James, the main character thinks, “Great Job, James. You've spent weeks to get absolutely nowhere.” (3895/5852) I kind of felt that way too. The last third of the book made up for it, however. It had a good deal of action and answered many questions, such as why James was so obsessed with this crime anyway.

This well researched novel is for readers who are interested in the recent history of gangs and cartels in Mexico. You'll receive lots of information on the topic.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author:

Jack Luellen is a Denver, Colorado attorney with more than 30 years of experience. In practice, Jack has tried cases to courts and juries and has written hundreds of briefs, motions, and memoranda, to state and federal court, including federal courts of appeal and the United States Supreme Court. Jack first started working on the Camarena case in 1990 and has continued to investigate it in the years since. Jack is the proud parent of an amazing 9-year-old daughter. Connect with Jack at jackluellen.com.

Torchflame Books, 394 pages

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)