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Gun Games: A Decker/Lazarus Novel    by Faye Kellerman Amazon.com order for
Gun Games
by Faye Kellerman
Order:  USA  Can
William Morrow, 2012 (2012)
Hardcover, CD, e-Book

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* * *   Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth

One wouldn't think that a book with the title Gun Games would be about teenagers. But it sure is. And author Faye Kellerman snags readers' attention from the first page.

A teen living in LAPD Lieutenant Detective Peter Decker's environs has committed suicide. At least, that is what the police have ruled the death. Decker, though, feels there is more to it, as does the dead boy's mother.

Decker and his wife Rina have consented to fostering a young man of fifteen in their Jewish home as his parents don't seem to really want the kid. Gabriel is a genius at the piano and has a fine future ahead of him. 'Til he meets Yasmine, a Persian Jew. He knows her parents won't approve of their friendship, so they sneak around to see each other.

Meanwhile, Decker and his minions try to discover why a young boy would kill himself. As they talk to his so-called friends, tidbits are gleaned about the exclusive prep school they attend. Reading made me glad that my daughters are no longer part of the teen scene.

Another teenager, a girl this time, copies the suicide, and more about the school and its students is revealed.

This is a very disturbing novel to read – though, also an excellently written tale about tragedy that can afflict our kids. And about the catalyst that promotes bullying. Gun Games is another fine book from a successful and prolific author.

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