Book Review The Sun

Frank Weber, a Minnesota forensic psychologist with over 25 years of experience, has authored nine mystery books. His newest one is "The Sun." All of Weber's books are inspired by true crimes set in Minnesota. He uses his professional background to his advantage, giving informative explanations of criminology methods along the way in the story to enlighten readers as they make their own deductions. Weber strives to make the investigative process as accurate as possible by laying out the logistics of the case, dead ends, red herrings, differing opinions, and politics of the day. Weber chooses stories to write about that he is familiar with, tapping into real-life experiences. His mystery stories are all inspired by true crimes set in Minnesota towns. He ties settings in all his books to actual places near his hometown of Pierz, Minnesota, St. Cloud, and the Twin Cities area.

Weber's previous book, "Scandal of Vandals," profiles a brutal murder case filled with intrigue, suspense, complicated relationships, riveting details, and rampant speculations. Deb Grant, spouse of esteemed attorney Tug Grant, was brutally assaulted in her Minnetonka home. A savvy writer, Weber competently weaves that compelling storyline into his newest book, "The Sun." Throughout the story, readers may be challenged to figure out the meaning of the book's title, a literary reference related to the case. Investigator Jon Frederick and his wife, Serena, reprise their starring roles from Weber's previous books. 

Taytum Hanson is a determined and alluring attorney who steps into the spotlight as she relentlessly searches for a loophole in her lover's conviction. Is freeing Tug Grant from prison the answer or the beginning of a new set of problems? When Tug is released, with ulterior motives, he marries a rich woman. He begins quietly stealing her money. A shocking murder halfway through the book jeopardizes the lives of two of Tug's lovers, Taytum and Melanie, who now face challenges as their actions set them on a course with the Minnesota Mafia.  Jon and Serena Frederick face hard choices as their investigative work solving murders involves them in Mafia activities and Medicare fraud. In this intense, fast-paced thriller with a suspenseful and nerve-racking ending, you'll also discover how "The Sun" warms and burns. 

Since the cast of characters is large and complicated, Weber wisely includes a "cheat sheet" that identifies the list of characters and their designated role in the story. The book is structured so that each chapter is narrated from a different character's perspective. This helps the reader understand each character's thoughts as the investigative process unfolds. I highly recommend this engrossing book for readers who enjoy a mystery thriller filled with multi-dimensional characters, relevant events, suspense, and plot twists as they determine how justice will be served.

ALL ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Besides being a forensic psychologist, Frank Weber has completed assessments for homicide, sexual assault, and domestic abuse cases. He has testified as an expert witness in numerous sexual assault and homicide cases and has written seven different treatment workbooks. Frank has taught college classes on social problems and started his own company, CORE Professional Services, PA, specializing in forensic work. It is located in downtown Brainerd, Minnesota.