Review: Ribbons of Death (Peacetaker Series Book 1) by Edita A. Petrick

Unlikely companions embarking on an adventure to save the world is a popular and perennially successful angle for thrillers, but Ribbons of Death by Edita A. Petrick takes this common form to the next level. Combining elements of mythology, philosophy, psychology and spirituality with good old-fashioned suspense and action, this novel is a fast-paced ride that you won’t want to end.

When an ancient power – long believed to be a myth – rises again and begins to spread madness throughout the world, it is up to Agent Carter and Dr. Hunter to find the puppet masters controlling the Peacetaker. In a new twist on terrorism, the Peacetaker is able to drive people insane, encouraging riots and violence around the world, threatening the sanity of anyone he encounters.

The two protagonists make for a very odd couple, but their dynamic works surprisingly well. Carter is aloof and somewhat cold at the beginning of the novel, and Petrick does a great job of patiently unfolding his past, rather than dumping it all at the start. Dr. Hunter is far more accessible and relatable to most readers, with a fiery temper and a brilliant mind. Seeing these two skilled characters maneuver through these mysterious pages is a treat, particularly because the author didn’t lean into the obvious chance for romantic entanglement. That being said, there are many more books in this series, so perhaps Petrick is playing the long game with these two potential lovers.

Aside from this core pair of players, the secondary characters are also well developed and necessary to keep the action moving. The plot itself is riveting and creative, appealing to lovers of suspense, mystery, supernatural fiction and action. The author shows her mastery of storytelling in some of the more dynamic scenes, with vivid descriptions and very few wasted words. Technically speaking, the editing is very clean and there are no major issues in terms of grammar, syntax, spelling, or formatting.

Petrick’s flexibility as a writer is also on display in this novel, as she can shift effortlessly between governmental jargon and bureaucratic procedure to powerful ancient myths and abstract, existential passages. However, the dialogue is one of the weaker points of the book, with many of the conversations feeling forced or unrealistic. Such believable characters should be able to communicate in more genuine ways, and the author would be wise to avoid using dialogue purely as a plot progression tool.

In addition to the unique and creatively unfurled storyline, there are also some serious questions posed by the author in terms of human behavior, morality and self-control. While the book can’t be called a direct allegory, terrorism through the spread of madness is symbolic in its own way. Given the present state of the world, this novel may seem like escapist fiction, but it also makes certain bold comments on society at large, the fragility of the mind, and the strength that lies buried in everyone. With a thrilling ending that leaves plenty of space for more adventures, Ribbons of Death is a heart-pounding and thought-provoking achievement that should leap to the top of your reading list.