Steeled for Murder - KM Rockwood

Steeled for Murder
By KM Rockwood

Story Rating – 4 

Jesse Damon was imprisoned when he was a minor because he took the rap for his brothers. They anticipated he’d get off because he was a minor, but when the charge became murder, Jesse was charged as an adult. Innocent and literally left holding the bag, he has paid 19 years of his life for a crime he didn’t commit. On parole as part of a work release program, Jesse wants to get on with his life, the one he was trying to live before his brothers roped him into their criminal plans. But the police have other ideas.

Working third shift at the steel mill, Jesse is harassed by a forklift driver while clocking in. Fortunately for him, the foreman assigns him to a high-profile spot on the assembly line, one he can’t leave unless someone else takes his place.

During that shift, someone kills the forklift driver and Jesse, the convicted murderer, is the only person the police consider. Even though he has a sound alibi. Jesse doesn’t want to make any trouble. He just wants to get on with his life, so he does what he’s learned in prison. Cooperate, but keep to yourself as much as possible. Because of his status, the bad guys aren’t afraid to approach him to pull him into their scheme, and that is what ultimately helps Jesse unintentionally steer the police in the right direction.

 I’ll start by saying this isn’t the sort of book I would normally pick up and read, but when KM Rockwood asked me if I’d review it, I agreed. I like a well-told tale, and this story fits the bill. This is a book about crime, about dealing with prejudice and preconceived notions, and about persevering. Jesse’s characterization was riveting. I felt every frustration along with his carefully maintained “yes sir” attitude. He’s intensely aware of his precarious position on the “outside,” relishing every moment of monitored freedom, in spite of his lack of luxuries or amenities. Jesse lives a hard life, but he’s determined to overcome his challenges, and that’s what makes the story interesting. There was never a lag in the action, and Jesse’s hardened naiveté (how’s that for an oxymoron?) works beautifully.