Review: The Seventh Survivor

Summary

In "The Seventh Survivor," Lori Lacefield crafts a compelling crime mystery centered around the Diamond Foundation, a charitable organization with a dark twist. The foundation's directors, all victims of heinous crimes, take justice into their own hands by blackmailing wrongdoers who have escaped legal punishment. The protagonist, Palmer Reed, finds herself entangled in this morally complex web, leading to a thrilling narrative of suspense and ethical quandaries.

Author: Lori Lacefield

ISBN: 0977627683

The Premise

What would you do if you were invited to join a prestigious charitable foundation, only to discover that its fundraising methods are not just unconventional but also illegal? This is the dilemma faced by Palmer Reed in Lori Lacefield's "The Seventh Survivor."

The Diamond Foundation

The Diamond Foundation is not your typical charitable organization. Comprising ten women directors, all of whom are survivors of serious crimes such as rape, abuse, assault, kidnapping, and attempted murder, the foundation seeks to right the wrongs of a flawed legal system. These women, whose perpetrators often escaped justice, have banded together to "set the record straight," as stated by the foundation's chairman, Marjoram Swail.

Modus Operandi

The foundation identifies individuals who have committed crimes or immoral acts but have evaded legal consequences. After a thorough investigation, if two-thirds of the directors agree, they gather evidence and anonymously blackmail the perpetrator. The blackmail money is then funneled into the foundation, with a portion distributed to crime victims and designated agencies, while the directors and administrative expenses take a cut.

Ethical Dilemmas

The foundation's methods raise significant ethical questions. What happens when the blackmailed individuals refuse to pay or lack the funds? The story delves into these moral complexities, adding layers of tension and intrigue.

Palmer Reed's Journey

Palmer Reed, the protagonist, is thrilled to be nominated to the board of the Diamond Foundation, especially since Marjoram Swail, who once saved her from a childhood kidnapping, nominated her. However, Reed's excitement quickly turns to fear and dismay as she uncovers the foundation's true nature. The kidnapping incident, tied to her father's union activities and illegal toxic waste disposal, is intricately woven into the foundation's blackmail operations.

A Gripping Narrative

Lacefield masterfully combines well-defined characters, high-stakes conflict, and a vividly drawn protagonist to create a gripping crime novel. The emotional charge is palpable as Reed confronts the powerful antagonist, Marjoram Swail, and grapples with competing values and conflicting visions. The heightened drama and ethical dilemmas make for a riveting read that engages readers on both emotional and intellectual levels.

Interesting Stats

• According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, only 42% of violent crimes are reported to the police, highlighting the frustration and helplessness that victims often feel (Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics).
• A study by the National Center for Victims of Crime found that 68% of sexual assaults are not reported to the authorities, underscoring the challenges in achieving justice (Source: National Center for Victims of Crime).

Conclusion

"The Seventh Survivor" by Lori Lacefield is a thought-provoking crime mystery that explores the lengths to which individuals will go to seek justice when the legal system fails them. With its complex characters, moral dilemmas, and high-stakes drama, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre.

For more insights into the book and an interview with Lori Lacefield, visit Bookpleasures.

Sources:

• Bureau of Justice Statistics
• National Center for Victims of Crime