Archie is also back at work and is working the case of a young woman whose body was found in Forest Park, near where Gretchen’s first victim was found.  But this can’t have anything to do with Gretchen because she’s in jail, isn’t she? 

Funky local reporter Susan Ward tries to help keep Archie’s mind focused on his present case and his partner even arranges to have Gretchen moved to another prison where Archie won’t be tempted to visit her. Gretchen escapes and begins a dangerous cat and mouse game with Archie. Archie, who knows he can’t stay away and knows he can’t continue ruining his health with pain killers decides to become bait to trap and kill Gretchen. 

He knows he is going to die soon anyway and wants to make sure his wife and children are safe. Telling no one, Archie allows Gretchen to lure him into her web for one last dangerous game for both of them…or will it be?  

Readers who thought Cain’s first book Heartsick was suspenseful and full of twists and turns will not be disappointed with Sweetheart. There is not nearly as much blood and gore as last time, but the obsessive terror level is high. Archie knows he is on a course of destruction but also can’t and doesn’t want to, stop. His obsession of Gretchen is frightening because it happens so easily and naturally, even though he logically knows that she is a vicious killer with very few, if any, feelings toward human life. 

Archie’s friends, families and colleagues do their best to help their friend, but realize he’s on the path to self-destruction and must stand by and watch, hoping he realizes what he’s doing before it’s too late. A stay-up all-night (but not alone) read, Sweetheart will satisfy readers who have been breathless waiting to hear the conclusion of Archie and Gretchen’s story…or is it?                                

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry