Death Game

Cheryl Swanson
Zumaya Publications (2006)
ISBN 1554103258
Reviewed by Kornelia Longoria for Reader Views (4/07)

At first all evidence seems to point at Jimmie O’Brien as the killer of another teenage boy. The security tape clearly shows images of Jimmie aiming a gun at his victim and firing, and everyone believes that the additional investigation is not necessary. To make matters worse, he disappears, leaving behind the weapon used in the murder. However, Cooper, Brian’s older sister, strongly believes that her brother is innocent and she decides to do everything in her power to find out what exactly happened, and most importantly, who and why would try to frame Jimmie.  However, shortly after she undertakes the investigation, she discovers that Jimmie’s part is only a little piece in an enormous puzzle.  The situation is far more complex and the resolution of the crime seems out of her reach. Nobody is what they claim to be and Cooper does not know who to trust.
She does not give up, and relying mostly on herself, she is determined to solve the mystery even when the situation looks hopeless.

The whole investigation revolves around the fans of gruesome and cold-blooded computer games. Cooper’s brother who a big fan of computer games, made a lot of online “friends” who share the same passion and she believes that the answer is somewhere in the gamers’ community.

“Death Game” is one of the books that pull you in from the very beginning and keep you turning the pages anxiously till the very end. It’s full of twists and surprises and it will definitely not disappoint all action lovers.  The protagonist is very likable and I would love to see her in more books. The other characters are very well-constructed as well. I really liked the way the gay friend of Ms. Cooper was portrayed. Even though the book contains a lot of references to new technology and focuses on the cyber world, it will not be confusing to a reader who is not very well familiar with the latest technological inventions. I would definitely recommend “Death Game” to all thrill seeking readers.

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