Gerard O’Donovan’s “The Priest”

Weighing in at a hefty 500 pages, Gerard O’Donovan’s “The Priest” is a captivating and fast paced thriller that will leave you begging for more. Without question, “The Priest” is an outstanding first instalment (in a new series) featuring Inspector Mike Mulcahy and journalist Siobhan Fallon.

Shortlisted for the 2007 Crime Writers’ Association’s “Debut Dagger” competition, the Irish journalist, born in Cork and brought up in Dublin, has certainly left his mark with a gritty and character driven novel.

His name is the priest… his weapon is a crucifix…  his victims don’t have a prayer…

Jesica Salazar, a diplomat’s 16 year old daughter has been sent, along with her school friends, to Dublin by her father (Don Alfonso) to experience a different way of life. Her father, a powerful and wealthy Spanish politician, is convinced she will be safe in Ireland. After all Ireland is a Catholic country, what could possibly go wrong in just two weeks?

“I thought it would be good for her, you see. To get away from me for a few weeks, from the bustle of politics that surrounds us, to see how ordinary people live”.

When the body of a young girl is discovered, battered and bruised and left for dead, the sex crimes unit launch an immediate investigation. Claire Brogan heads the unit and has her own way of doing things. When Mulcahy is ordered to join the investigation, the tight unit make it clear he is unwelcome. Rushed to hospital and in a serious condition, the victim of the brutal assault is identified as Jesica Salazar.

Gerard O'Donovan

Fresh from a long stint in Madrid, Mulcahy puts his language skills to good use and serves as a liaison to the Spanish Government, a role received with derision from fellow cop Cassidy. When another woman is attacked on her way home, it is clear a depraved killer is stalking the dark streets of Dublin’s fair city. Can the team catch the killer before he goes too far? Only time will tell.

O’Donovan has, in Mulcahy, created a powerful leading character. A strong willed individual who certainly knows what he wants and I’m curious to see how O’Donovan develops his relationship with Siobhan Fallon in future novels. I found both Mulcahy and Fallon likeable characters and will without too much effort ingratiate themselves on the reading public.

The plot is taut and narrative imposing and will keep you turning page after page, guessing until its powerful conclusion. Considering the first novel in any series has a duty to provide a strong and enticing foundation, O’Donovan can be assured he has the ingredients to develop a promising and dynamic duo in Mulcahy and Fallon.

Magnificent, powerful and frightening – Highly Recommended.

Published by Sphere/Little, Brown Group “The Priest” is available from Amazon & Waterstones.