Random Violence

Random Violence by Jassy McKenzie (Umuzi) ISBN: 978 1 415 2 0063 6 R160.00

 

Jassy McKenzie marks her debut as a South African crime writer with Random Violence. It’s a fast-paced, relevant thriller exposing in the grim, violent world of Johannesburg. Hijackings, corrupt cops, vigilantes and shady construction deals. It’s all here. She details the pace, mood and tensions of the city with a keen eye. It was surprisingly engaging to read a novel set in a familiar setting.
Jade de Jonge is a private detective called in to help assist an old friend track down a hijacker involved in a brutal murder on a farm. As a heroine, Jade comes across as a likeable character – chilli-loving, a crack shot, fearless. Until she becomes involved in a hit on a drug kingpin. It’s here that her morals become a bit murky and the reader loses some sympathy with her. Superintendent David Patel, as her love interest, also seemed rather passive in the story. We’d love to see more heat and conflict between them.
All in all, Random Violence is a satisfying read. Good plot, lots of action and enough gore to keep lovers of the thriller genre happy. It’s encouraging to see new authors emerge from the local scene with such strong, compelling voices. We look forward to her next book or from other home-grown thriller writers. Jassy McKenzie is a promising new voice – look out for her.

Reviewer: Anthony Ehlers
4/5