Into the Fire

A Reason to Live by Matthew Iden is the first book in the Marty Singer Mystery Series. 

Marty Singer, Detective with the DC police force (MPDC), was forced into retirement when he was abruptly diagnosed with colorectal cancer in his early 50s. Just about to undergo his first Chemo treatment after meeting the grown up daughter of the woman who was murdered by a bad cop who skated and disappeared 12 years ago on Marty's watch, he realizes she needs protection after she explains the untold issues of the cop (Michael Wheeler) who killed her mother (Brenda Lane) and appears to be back in pursuit of the young woman (Amanda Lane).

That's the scenario leading up to Amanda's reluctant but obedient decision to stick to the "rules" laid out for her by Singer. Little did he know the power of Chemo to make him incapable of protecting himself or anyone else. Hoping his ex-partner (Kransky) would be willing to assist him, things go as planned for a brief time as both Singer and Kransky do their best to find something, anything, to locate Wheeler. When an unlikely lead surfaces from a semi-hostile source, the source turns out to be not so hostile after all. 

Marty Singer is the cop who didn't want to retire, divorced, and now used to being alone. When Amanda approaches him with her fearful situation, that cop instinct in Marty kicks in and, though he figures he probably shouldn't, he decides to help her before Chemo takes him down. The friendship between Marty and Amanda is just one reason to keep him alive. 

There are twists, good characterizations, a seamy villain in the shadows, chapters written by the psychopath, and a melancholy finish. I found I really enjoyed Matthew's writing and storytelling, so I'm off to read yet another series as I wait for the next novel in my other series.  

Profanity present. 

Father, again and again, I thank you for those you've gifted with writing and storytelling talent. May they always know and acknowledge from whom their talent comes. Please, continue to bless Matthew in his writing adventures. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.