One-line Summary:

In “Darkness, Take My Hand,” the second book in the Kenzie and Gennaro series by Dennis Lehane, private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro find themselves entangled in a dangerous case involving a serial killer and the dark underbelly of Boston.

The Dark Underbelly of Boston:

“Darkness, Take My Hand” delves deep into the gritty and sinister side of Boston, exposing the city’s dark underbelly. Private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro are once again drawn into a dangerous case that takes them through the seedy streets and back alleys of their hometown.

The story begins when Patrick and Angela are hired by a wealthy psychiatrist, Dr. Diandra Warren, to find her missing sister, Desiree Stone. As they dig deeper into the case, they uncover a connection between Desiree and a series of brutal murders that have been plaguing the city. The victims are all young women, and their bodies are found mutilated and posed in disturbing ways.

As Patrick and Angela delve further into the investigation, they find themselves crossing paths with a sadistic serial killer known as “The Red Sox Killer.” This psychopath has a personal vendetta against Patrick and is determined to make him suffer. The duo must navigate through a web of lies, corruption, and betrayal to catch the killer before he strikes again.

A Complex Web of Characters:

Lehane masterfully weaves a complex web of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. From corrupt police officers to dangerous criminals, the book is populated with a diverse cast that adds depth and intrigue to the story.

One of the standout characters is Bubba Rogowski, Patrick’s childhood friend and a former criminal. Bubba is a complex and troubled character, torn between his loyalty to Patrick and his own demons. His presence adds an emotional layer to the narrative, as his past actions come back to haunt him.

Another compelling character is Jay Becker, a detective who has a complicated relationship with Patrick. Becker is torn between his duty as a police officer and his friendship with Patrick, leading to a tense dynamic between the two.

The Price of Darkness:

“Darkness, Take My Hand” explores the theme of darkness and its consequences. The book delves into the psychological toll that the investigation takes on Patrick and Angela, as they are forced to confront their own demons and face the darkness within themselves.

Lehane’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the dark and gritty streets of Boston. The city itself becomes a character, reflecting the moral ambiguity and corruption that permeates the story.

Ultimately, “Darkness, Take My Hand” is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Lehane’s skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make for a compelling read that explores the depths of human darkness.

• Key Takeaways:
• Exploration of the dark underbelly of Boston
• Complex and troubled characters
• Themes of darkness and its consequences

“The darkness always has a price. You can’t hide from it. You can’t pretend it isn’t there. You can’t ignore it. And if you try to, it will consume you.”