Detective Superintendent Jack Hawksworth has returned in Fiona McIntosh’s latest police procedural, Blood Pact. In this novel, Jack is charged with heading a counter-terrorism team investigating a series of domestic events. At the same time he is also drawn into a parallel investigation of murders triggered by a single blood transfusion. 

Fiona McIntosh doesn’t share the belief that a novel is “just fiction” and is renowned for her commitment to authenticity and research as readers of her historical novels will already know. Blood Pact, which draws us into the world of blood donations is no different—although a couple of times I felt the details about blood transfusions slowed the pace of what is otherwise an action-packed read. 

As with her previous novels, red herrings cleverly disguised as clues help build suspense and keep readers guessing until the end.

Lovers of Jack might be a little saddened by the fact he is now off the market, with the possibility of a long-term relationship with Lou—who loves his cooking, his sincerity, and just about everything else about him. Of course, being introduced to Lou while they are having a romantic getaway in Venice was a bonus for me.

Blood Pact is ideal for readers who like their crime strong with a dash of romance.