Compulsion by Allison Brennan

Author: Alliocon Brennan
Publisher: Minatour Books
Date of publication: April 2015

Investigative reporter Maxine Revere has a theory: that the five New York City murders for which Adam Bachman is being tried are just part of his killing spree. In probing the disappearance of a retired couple who vanished the prior summer, Max uncovers striking similarities to Bachman's MO and develops a theory that Bachman wasn't working alone.

Max wins a coveted pre-trial interview with the killer, whose disarming composure in the face of her questions is combined with uncomfortable knowledge of Max's own past. She leaves the room convinced, but unable to prove, that Bachman knows exactly what happened to the missing couple. The D.A. wants nothing to jeopardize his case against Bachman and refuses to consider Max's theory. With no physical evidence, Max has to rely on her own wits and investigative prowess to dig deep into Bachman's past. The picture that Max puts together is far darker and more deadly than she ever imagined.

As Max gets closer to the truth, she doesn't realize that she's walking down a road that has been paved just for her. That every step she takes brings her one step closer to a brilliant, methodical sociopath who has been waiting for her to make just one small mistake.

And when she does, he'll be there waiting.


I loved the first Maxine Revere book, so I was eager to dive into Compulsion.  I loved this one just as much. Compulsion was definitely a fast ride and had me biting my nails at times.  This time around, Max is sure there is a more behind spree killer Adam Bachman and she is determined to see how it relates to a cold case.  As she investigates, it's clear someone is setting her up.

The plot is a little convoluted in this one, but that is what makes it so great.  You don't know who or what to trust.  I also liked this one because we learn a lot more about what makes Max tick.  A lot more of her past is revealed and I really felt like I got to know her character a lot better.  She does a lot of soul searching in this one.  

I am in love with this series and can't wait for the next book to come out.  Oh, and in case you are interested, I am totally team Nick!