(Reviewed by JD Jung)
Retired New York cop Julius Mosley found a new life in New Orleans. As a martial arts instructor, he is able to find an inner peace that was not available to him in New York. However, when his best student, Maya Gaines, unknowingly gets caught up with crime boss Vinh Nguyen, Mosley’s past catches up to him.
What I particularly enjoyed about The Last Shadow was author Michael Allen Zell’s vivid portrayal of New Orleans, far from the tourist’s perception. Through his skillful prose, the city itself becomes a character, its dark alleys and hidden corners serving as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.
The characters are expertly crafted, with depth and nuance that make their motivations and actions feel authentic. From Mosley and Nguyen’s past to Maya’s realization of the burdens of her own talent, each character is fleshed out with care and attention to detail.
While The Last Shadow is a quick read, Zell wastes no time in immersing the reader in his world. The pacing is tight, the suspense intense, and the payoff satisfying. Fans of crime fiction will find much to enjoy in this engaging novel.
