Review of "Unfinished Business: An Ali Reynolds Mystery" by J.A. Jance

In this 16th book in the 'Ali Reynolds' series, the computer security expert/amateur sleuth deals with family problems and gets on the wrong side of a serial killer. The book can be read as a standalone.

*****

Ali Reynolds and her husband B. Simpson own High Noon Enterprises, a computer security service based in Cottonwood, Arizona.



The High Noon business complex contains extra offices, which are rented out to tenants for additional income. One renter is Harvey McCluskey, a crooked home inspector who's two months behind on his rent.



Ali and her employee Cami Lee go to McClusky's office to serve an eviction notice, which Cami films on her IPAD. McClusky is embarrassed and infuriated, and vows revenge against the ladies. In Harvey's case this isn't an idle threat, because he's a serial killer who's already murdered several women.



Meanwhile, in Monroe, Washington, computer technician Mateo Vega is released from the penitentiary after 16 years inside.



Mateo was accused of killing his girlfriend, and though he was innocent, Mateo took a plea to avoid a life sentence. When the convict finally gets out on parole, he takes a job at a thrift store, and - having kept up his computer skills - sends resumes to computer tech companies.

Mateo has no luck until he contacts his old boss Stuart Ramey, who works for High Noon Enterprises. Stuart is impressed with Mateo's abilities, and - with Ali and B's approval - flies the ex-convict to Arizona for an interview.



Ali also contacts her friend, private detective J.P. Beaumont, to see about clearing Mateo's name.



As the book unfolds, the backstories of McClusky and Mateo are interweaved with the current lives of the men, and McClusky's history is bloody and horrendous.

In addition to business concerns, Ali has personal problems. Ali's parents, Edie and Bob Larson, live in a senior citizen community in Cottonwood.



Ali thought her folks were doing well until she discovered that Edie has been protecting Bob, hiding the fact that he's losing his memory and acting out. Edie is exhausted, Bob is depressed, and the couple isolate themselves from friends. Ali insists that her parents get help, but the situation goes downhill fast.

While Ali is dealing with her family concerns, McClusky starts to carry out his revenge plan, which is frightening and dramatic.



Luckily, High Noon personnel, including the phenomenal Artificial Intelligence Frigg - who can hack ANYTHING - are on hand to help.



This is a good thriller that addresses some serious real life issues.

Thanks to Negtalley, J.A. Jance, and Gallery Books for a copy of the book.

Rating: 3.5 stars