THE BETRAYAL OF JUDAS
P. J. Mackin
Independently Published (219 pp.)
$12.00 paperback, $2.99 e-book
ISBN: 979-8536842393
July 13, 2021
BOOK REVIEW
A reverend investigates a fellow clergyman likely immersed in something diabolical in this debut novel. Father Leonardo’s mission in Australia is relatively simple: look into Aloysius Van Eyck. He’s a reverend at a Melbourne parish, but he may be the next bishop to the archdiocese. But one monsignor objects to this appointment, evidently based on hearing Van Eyck’s confession. As the monsignor offers no further specifics, Leonardo hunts for answers as to what exactly Van Eyck has been up to.
Elsewhere, small-town Aussie teen Judas “Jud” Lidicotte wallows in self-abuse. It’s been a year since he lost his mother to liver failure and saw his older brother, who suffered the worst of their mom’s deceased boyfriend’s abuse. Jud, who can’t seem to kick his heroin habit, stirs up trouble around town. So when someone captures and violently assaults him and he narrowly escapes, people don’t believe his claim. Since his assailant is determined to grab him again, Jud struggles to stay ahead of this sadistic individual. When the teen’s life collides with Leonardo’s and
Van Eyck’s trajectories, these already horrific circumstances only worsen.
Mackin’s intriguing, relentlessly grim tale features myriad flawed individuals. For example, readers may cringe at Jud’s drunken antics at a local bar, while a few seemingly good-natured characters reveal surprisingly unsavory qualities. Vivid backstories provide depth for the players,
from the Lidicottes to Van Eyck. The author doesn’t skimp on violence; it’s often implied, though descriptions are occasionally graphic. But the scariest moments teem with suspense, especially with Jud aware that someone is trying to kill him.
Mackin deftly packs rich, abundant details into steadily paced scenes, whether discussions among clergymen or a chase sequence: “Jud darted down the carriage to the first set of sliding doors. Stumbling backward he clung to the overhead handrail with both hands and kicked at the high strength plexiglass.”
A dark, intense, and riveting tale of redemption.
PJ Mackin 