The Killing Files is an incredibly tense yet engaging thriller. Maria Martinez is no ordinary protagonist: she is a highly trained plastic surgeon who has been convicted of and imprisoned for the murder of a priest, who has been described as paranoid and also has Aspergers Syndrome which causes difficulties in dealing with emotions, anxiety and social situations. She does not sound very likeable when described in this way, and yet Nikki Owen has succeeded in writing her as a vulnerable and engaging character - I really felt for her throughout this book.
Having successfully appealed her murder conviction, she takes refuge in her native Spain until evidence strongly suggests that she is in danger. She is concerned for the safety of her beloved family and the few friends she has found it so difficult to make. Is she paranoid? Is she being stalked? And just what is The Project? The construction of the plot is so clever, because the tension and suspense are maintained to the point that it is hard to stop reading and put the book down, and I found myself holding my breath and fearing for my blood pressure. Maria's resourcefulness and longing for friendship are strong themes in this story and I am missing her now the story has concluded - but at least I can read the first volume of the trilogy, Subject 375, while waiting for the third part to become available.
As they say, "Just because you're paranoid, it doesn't mean they're not out to get you." The Killing Files makes for great reading, especially for those who enjoy psychological thrillers. I really enjoyed it.
For more information, the Amazon link is here.
Nikki Owen is an award-winning freelance writer and columnist currently based in Gloucestershire.
Previously, Nikki was a marketing consultant and University teaching fellow before turning to writing full time. As part of her degree, she studied at the acclaimed University of Salamanca – the same city where her protagonist of the Project trilogy, Dr Maria Martinez, hails from.
Previously, Nikki was a marketing consultant and University teaching fellow before turning to writing full time. As part of her degree, she studied at the acclaimed University of Salamanca – the same city where her protagonist of the Project trilogy, Dr Maria Martinez, hails from.
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