Eden (Archer & Bennett Thriller, 2)

Eden is the second novel by Australian author, Candice Fox. It is the sequel to her first novel, Hades, and, perversely, it reveals the history of Heinrich “Hades” Archer in a narrative interspersed with an account of events since the deaths of Eric Archer, serial killer, Jason Beck and the woman who escaped his cage, Martina Ducote. It is, therefore, essential to read Hades first.

Detective Frank Bennett is barely existing since the death of his lover, but Eden Archer is determined he will resume his role as her partner. There are three case of young women gone missing, and they have thug Jackie Rye’s farm in common. If Eden is going to go undercover, she need’s Frank’s backup. But Hades is demanding Frank’s time too: it seems he has a stalker at Utillo tip, and he wants to know why. However, Frank has to complete his sessions with police psychologist, Imogen Stone, before he can join Eden on the case, and facing his demons is something he resists at every turn.

This sequel has two main plotlines: one involving a cold case disappearance, the other set in the present day. Both plots have clues and red herrings, and clever twists at the end. The narrative dealing with young Hades will answer some questions raised by the first novel. The action is non-stop, and Eden proves again that she can look after herself very well. This gripping novel is a very satisfying sequel, and readers will wonder if there is more to come of Archer and Bennett. At least as good as Hades, if not better, this is a real page-turner.