Sacred and Profane (Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus, #2)

Title: Sacred and Profane (Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus, #2)

Author: Faye Kellerman

Published in: 1987

Date read: 28th November 2006

Score: 4/5

Genre: Crime, Detective, Mystery, Psychological

Plot: (Warning, may contain spoilers):
"Sacred and Profane" by Faye Kellerman, published in 1993, is the second novel in her critically acclaimed "Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus" series. It further develops the complex relationship between the LAPD detective and the Orthodox Jewish widow, while plunging them into a disturbing case of ritualistic murder that touches on themes of faith, family, and the dark side of belief.

The story opens with the grim discovery of two charred bodies – an adult and a child – in a cave in the Hollywood Hills. The scene immediately suggests a ritualistic killing, possibly connected to occult practices. This immediately draws the attention of Detective Lieutenant Peter Decker, a seasoned and methodical LAPD homicide detective.

Decker, now a convert to Orthodox Judaism (a journey explored in the first novel, "The Ritual Bath"), finds himself uniquely positioned but also personally challenged by the case's potentially religious overtones. His newfound faith gives him an understanding of sacred texts and ritual, which he fears might be being twisted for horrifying purposes.

As Decker and his partner, Marge Dunn, investigate, they encounter a range of enigmatic characters, from reclusive cult members and fervent religious zealots to academics studying ancient texts. The evidence points to a chilling possibility: the murders are part of a dark ritual, possibly a modern re-enactment of an ancient sacrificial practice.

Decker leans heavily on Rina Lazarus, the intelligent and deeply devout Orthodox Jewish widow with whom he is now building a life. Rina, with her extensive knowledge of Jewish law, mysticism, and community traditions, becomes an invaluable (though unofficial) consultant. Her insights into the subtle nuances of religious belief, both legitimate and perverted, help Decker navigate the complex spiritual landscape of the crime.

The investigation leads them into the shadowy world of fringe religious groups, where twisted interpretations of scripture and a hunger for spiritual power can lead to unspeakable acts. The detectives must differentiate between genuine faith and dangerous fanaticism.

As the case progresses, the killer's motives become increasingly clear, revealing a chilling logic behind the seemingly irrational acts. The murders are not random but deeply personal, rooted in a perverted sense of justice or twisted conviction. The climax involves a tense confrontation as Decker and Rina race to prevent another ritualistic murder, facing a killer driven by a warped sense of the divine. "Sacred and Profane" is a gripping blend of police procedural and psychological thriller, enriched by its exploration of faith and its dark aberrations.

Comments:
Really enjoyed this. I read this as one by a "random author" and it worked out well.

Books that we've read by Faye Kellerman (1):
Sacred and Profane (Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus, #2) (1987)