The Indie Review: Initiation by CHarnaye Conner

"Initiation" by Charnaye Conner immerses readers in a raw and intense portrayal of the organized crime world. At the center of the story is an assassin working under the Yakuza, renowned for their ability to dismantle entire organizations with deadly precision. Their latest assignment—to eliminate the leading family of the Korean mafia—seems like just another job. But as the story unfolds it quickly becomes clear this is not just another job.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is it’s moral complexity. The protagonist is far from a stereotypical assassin; while undeniably ruthless, they are portrayed as a multifaceted individual forced to confront their choices and identity.

Conner weaves a gripping tale that goes beyond a simple story of crime and violence, exploring the psychological and emotional layers of life within the underworld. The assassin's internal turmoil becomes a key focus, as they face unforeseen challenges and uncover truths that reshape their understanding of their surroundings—and themselves.

Charnaye Conner's sharp storytelling and careful character exploration set this novel apart from other crime novels. For those seeking a story filled with action, suspense, and introspection, "Initiation" is a must-read.

I don’t typically read the crime thriller genre, and I know SO little about the organized crime world, but what I appreciated most is that Connor took the time to bring me into the world through her writing without sacrificing the integrity of the story. I came away from this novel with a better understanding and appreciation of a world and a genre I entered knowing very little about.

You can purchase copies of Initiation by clicking the cover below!