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Unsolved: a Frank Renzi Crime Thriller
An ex-cop on the run, wanted for murder.Zack yearns for his beloved daughter. Lily was five when he fled New Orleans. Now she's thirteen, living in a home for wayward girls. Zack returns to New Orleans, intent on taking Lily far away to give her the life she deserves. But Homicide Detective Frank Renzi is determined to catch him. Two savvy opponents, focused on desperate goals. Zack wants to leave town with Lily. Frank wants to capture him. But if Zack goes to prison, what will become of Lily?
"Fleet does an excellent job of capturing the New Orleans backdrop while Frank Renzi unravels clues. A riveting unpredictable conclusion. — Midwest Book Reviews
"Fleet does an excellent job of capturing the New Orleans backdrop while Frank Renzi unravels clues. A riveting unpredictable conclusion. — Midwest Book Reviews
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2025
About the author
Susan Fleet
21 books67 followersMusic & Mayhem is my game. Started my trumpet career in my teens, got into the mayhem later. My print journalist father taught me how to play pool in the police station. Maybe that's how I discovered my dark side.
After gigging on trumpet in the Boston area for many years (while teaching at Brown University and Berklee College of Music), I moved to New Orleans, which became the setting for my crime thrillers. Scroll down and check the video trailers.
I survived Katrina, but divide my time between Boston and the Big Easy. On my website I post profiles of women musicians. I also write ebooks about true crime: DARK DEEDS about serial killers, stalkers and domestic homicides. Please come visit!!
After gigging on trumpet in the Boston area for many years (while teaching at Brown University and Berklee College of Music), I moved to New Orleans, which became the setting for my crime thrillers. Scroll down and check the video trailers.
I survived Katrina, but divide my time between Boston and the Big Easy. On my website I post profiles of women musicians. I also write ebooks about true crime: DARK DEEDS about serial killers, stalkers and domestic homicides. Please come visit!!
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 6, 2026
Unsolved: A Frank Renzi Crime Thriller by Susan Fleet is a compelling and emotionally charged crime novel that skillfully blends police procedural suspense with deeply personal storytelling. More than a traditional thriller, the novel explores themes of redemption, family, justice, and sacrifice while maintaining an atmosphere of relentless tension that keeps readers invested from beginning to end.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its emotionally driven premise. Rather than centering solely on the pursuit of a fugitive, Fleet presents a story where every decision is shaped by deeply personal motivations. Zack is not portrayed as a one-dimensional man on the run; instead, he is a complex and sympathetic character whose overwhelming desire to reunite with his daughter creates an emotional foundation that gives the entire narrative extraordinary depth. Readers are constantly challenged to balance compassion with questions of justice, making the story both gripping and thought-provoking.
Equally compelling is Detective Frank Renzi, whose determination to uphold the law creates a fascinating contrast with Zack's desperate mission. Fleet avoids simplistic portrayals of hero and villain, instead presenting two well-developed individuals driven by convictions they each believe are justified. This moral complexity elevates the novel, transforming it from a straightforward crime thriller into a nuanced exploration of duty, responsibility, and humanity.
The pacing is expertly handled throughout the novel. From the opening chapters, the tension steadily escalates as Zack races against time to reach Lily while Frank relentlessly follows the trail. Every development increases the stakes, and the constant sense of urgency keeps readers fully engaged. Fleet carefully balances investigative work, emotional moments, and suspenseful confrontations, ensuring the story remains dynamic without sacrificing character development.
Another standout aspect of Unsolved is its vivid portrayal of New Orleans. The city is brought to life with authenticity, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place that enriches the narrative. Rather than serving merely as a backdrop, New Orleans becomes an integral part of the story, contributing to both the mood and the realism of the unfolding events.
Fleet's writing is polished, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Her dialogue feels natural, her characters are believable, and her storytelling consistently maintains momentum while allowing readers to connect with the emotional struggles of each individual. The seamless integration of suspense and heartfelt drama demonstrates a mature command of the crime thriller genre.
Beyond the central investigation, the novel explores universal themes surrounding parental love, redemption, second chances, and the difficult choices people make when confronted with impossible circumstances. These deeper emotional layers give the story lasting impact and distinguish it from many conventional police procedurals.
Perhaps most impressive is Fleet's ability to maintain uncertainty throughout the narrative. Readers are continually drawn into the conflict, questioning not only what will happen next but also what outcome would truly represent justice. This moral ambiguity creates an emotionally satisfying reading experience that lingers long after the final chapter.
Susan Fleet has crafted an intelligent, suspenseful, and emotionally compelling crime thriller that successfully combines gripping investigation with powerful human drama. Unsolved is an outstanding addition to the Frank Renzi series and a highly recommended read for fans of crime fiction, police procedurals, and character-driven suspense.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its emotionally driven premise. Rather than centering solely on the pursuit of a fugitive, Fleet presents a story where every decision is shaped by deeply personal motivations. Zack is not portrayed as a one-dimensional man on the run; instead, he is a complex and sympathetic character whose overwhelming desire to reunite with his daughter creates an emotional foundation that gives the entire narrative extraordinary depth. Readers are constantly challenged to balance compassion with questions of justice, making the story both gripping and thought-provoking.
Equally compelling is Detective Frank Renzi, whose determination to uphold the law creates a fascinating contrast with Zack's desperate mission. Fleet avoids simplistic portrayals of hero and villain, instead presenting two well-developed individuals driven by convictions they each believe are justified. This moral complexity elevates the novel, transforming it from a straightforward crime thriller into a nuanced exploration of duty, responsibility, and humanity.
The pacing is expertly handled throughout the novel. From the opening chapters, the tension steadily escalates as Zack races against time to reach Lily while Frank relentlessly follows the trail. Every development increases the stakes, and the constant sense of urgency keeps readers fully engaged. Fleet carefully balances investigative work, emotional moments, and suspenseful confrontations, ensuring the story remains dynamic without sacrificing character development.
Another standout aspect of Unsolved is its vivid portrayal of New Orleans. The city is brought to life with authenticity, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place that enriches the narrative. Rather than serving merely as a backdrop, New Orleans becomes an integral part of the story, contributing to both the mood and the realism of the unfolding events.
Fleet's writing is polished, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Her dialogue feels natural, her characters are believable, and her storytelling consistently maintains momentum while allowing readers to connect with the emotional struggles of each individual. The seamless integration of suspense and heartfelt drama demonstrates a mature command of the crime thriller genre.
Beyond the central investigation, the novel explores universal themes surrounding parental love, redemption, second chances, and the difficult choices people make when confronted with impossible circumstances. These deeper emotional layers give the story lasting impact and distinguish it from many conventional police procedurals.
Perhaps most impressive is Fleet's ability to maintain uncertainty throughout the narrative. Readers are continually drawn into the conflict, questioning not only what will happen next but also what outcome would truly represent justice. This moral ambiguity creates an emotionally satisfying reading experience that lingers long after the final chapter.
Susan Fleet has crafted an intelligent, suspenseful, and emotionally compelling crime thriller that successfully combines gripping investigation with powerful human drama. Unsolved is an outstanding addition to the Frank Renzi series and a highly recommended read for fans of crime fiction, police procedurals, and character-driven suspense.
February 5, 2025
Stories based on true crime have always intrigued readers, but with classic detective novels like that of Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot circulating in the literary market, it is definitely not an easy feat for an independent author to find her own niche. Despite that, Susan Fleet’s character, Frank Renzi, with his gritty yet empathetic attitude is very popular among contemporary readers and her works have been acknowledged, receiving appreciation from various different sources.
Set in the busy streets of New Orleans, Fleet introduces us to a sinister darker side of the city throughout Unsolved, a gripping crime thriller, which is also the twelfth book in her detective series. The story revolves around two main characters: Zack and Frank. Zack, a former cop turned murderer goes off the grid for eight years after killing his ex-wife and leaving behind his 5 year old daughter, Lily. However, with time he starts missing his daughter and longs to be by her side. Determined to reunite with his daughter who is now 13 years old, and staying in a rehabilitation center for children with behavioral issues, Zack devises a plan to meet Lily secretly and to help her run away from that prison-like facility, without raising the NOPD’s suspicions. He cannot afford to get caught by law enforcement while on the run with Lily. If he gets caught, he would immediately be arrested and go to jail. Frank, a well-respected homicide detective known for his genuine and sympathetic nature, is ordered by his superior, Beverly to solve a cold case from eight years ago, which just happens to be Zack’s murder case.
The fact that the story begins with one of the characters possibly having killed someone unintentionally, gives us an inkling of the existing moral values of this character. Additionally, the graphic description of the dead body heightens the bone-chilling effect of such an act of violence. What is even more jarring is the lack of a sense of remorse or guilt felt by the murderer. Zack’s resolution to get Lily out of her home for wayward children turns almost obsessive when he stops caring about what his actions mean and how they could jeopardize his future even more.
It is clear from her narratives that Fleet has mastered the art of creating characters with unique personalities. They are so realistic and at times flawed that it makes them more relatable to people. Initially, for a few moments, we are almost tempted to support Zack even though we know he is a vicious murderer who later goes on to commit various acts of crime. The author focuses mainly on the qualities of each of the two characters Zack and Frank as they were shaped in such a way to act as a foil to one another.
Although women’s role in the book has been largely compromised, it is still heartening to see them occupy at least a supporting role. Overall, the story has a range of diverse characters, each of them bringing something new to the equation and instead of remaining in the background, they actively contribute towards the growth and evolution of the protagonists. Ultimately, Unsolved is an engrossing book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys crime and mystery novels.
Quill says: Unsolved is bound to become a popular crime thriller that will keep its readers enthralled until the end!
Set in the busy streets of New Orleans, Fleet introduces us to a sinister darker side of the city throughout Unsolved, a gripping crime thriller, which is also the twelfth book in her detective series. The story revolves around two main characters: Zack and Frank. Zack, a former cop turned murderer goes off the grid for eight years after killing his ex-wife and leaving behind his 5 year old daughter, Lily. However, with time he starts missing his daughter and longs to be by her side. Determined to reunite with his daughter who is now 13 years old, and staying in a rehabilitation center for children with behavioral issues, Zack devises a plan to meet Lily secretly and to help her run away from that prison-like facility, without raising the NOPD’s suspicions. He cannot afford to get caught by law enforcement while on the run with Lily. If he gets caught, he would immediately be arrested and go to jail. Frank, a well-respected homicide detective known for his genuine and sympathetic nature, is ordered by his superior, Beverly to solve a cold case from eight years ago, which just happens to be Zack’s murder case.
The fact that the story begins with one of the characters possibly having killed someone unintentionally, gives us an inkling of the existing moral values of this character. Additionally, the graphic description of the dead body heightens the bone-chilling effect of such an act of violence. What is even more jarring is the lack of a sense of remorse or guilt felt by the murderer. Zack’s resolution to get Lily out of her home for wayward children turns almost obsessive when he stops caring about what his actions mean and how they could jeopardize his future even more.
It is clear from her narratives that Fleet has mastered the art of creating characters with unique personalities. They are so realistic and at times flawed that it makes them more relatable to people. Initially, for a few moments, we are almost tempted to support Zack even though we know he is a vicious murderer who later goes on to commit various acts of crime. The author focuses mainly on the qualities of each of the two characters Zack and Frank as they were shaped in such a way to act as a foil to one another.
Although women’s role in the book has been largely compromised, it is still heartening to see them occupy at least a supporting role. Overall, the story has a range of diverse characters, each of them bringing something new to the equation and instead of remaining in the background, they actively contribute towards the growth and evolution of the protagonists. Ultimately, Unsolved is an engrossing book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys crime and mystery novels.
Quill says: Unsolved is bound to become a popular crime thriller that will keep its readers enthralled until the end!
February 13, 2025
In "Unsolved: a Frank Renzi Crime Thriller (Frank Renzi crime thriller series Book 12)" by Susan Fleet, Detective Frank Renzi resumes his investigations of a savage killing inside an abandoned structure, which soon reveals itself as a deliberate fire settlement scheme. During his investigation, Renzi starts to understand that this case involves elements greater than standard gang crime.
The chief executive team members double down with pressure to bring back an investigation about a missing detective who allegedly killed his ex-wife eight years ago.
Time is short, and political scrutiny continues to mount as Renzi battles through dangerous criminals and official corruption and his own moral dilemmas to discover the facts.
Throughout the novel, its pages avoid feeling rushed at any point. The narrative contains sufficient description, which develops a clear picture without becoming overwhelming to the plot. This perspective allows readers to understand both the details of the case and what Renzi experiences and thinks.
Adult and younger readers who prefer crime thrillers should enjoy this novel. Its organized presentation uses easy-to-read text alongside distraction-free visual elements. The narrative is believable which prevent readers from being drawn out of the central experience.
Overall, this novel presents a compelling mystery experience that maintains reader interest throughout its complete narrative. Readers will also love the combination of crime thriller excitement with detective adventure and important real-life developments about criminal matters. Highly recommend giving it a read.
The chief executive team members double down with pressure to bring back an investigation about a missing detective who allegedly killed his ex-wife eight years ago.
Time is short, and political scrutiny continues to mount as Renzi battles through dangerous criminals and official corruption and his own moral dilemmas to discover the facts.
Throughout the novel, its pages avoid feeling rushed at any point. The narrative contains sufficient description, which develops a clear picture without becoming overwhelming to the plot. This perspective allows readers to understand both the details of the case and what Renzi experiences and thinks.
Adult and younger readers who prefer crime thrillers should enjoy this novel. Its organized presentation uses easy-to-read text alongside distraction-free visual elements. The narrative is believable which prevent readers from being drawn out of the central experience.
Overall, this novel presents a compelling mystery experience that maintains reader interest throughout its complete narrative. Readers will also love the combination of crime thriller excitement with detective adventure and important real-life developments about criminal matters. Highly recommend giving it a read.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews