Prior Bad Acts (Kovac and Liska, #3) Summary & Key Insights

Tami Hoag's "Prior Bad Acts," the third book in the Kovac and Liska series, plunges readers into a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and long-buried secrets surrounding the brutal murder of a seemingly respectable businessman, Arthur Jenkins. The investigation falls to Detective Inspector Kate Liska and her partner, Sergeant Matt Kovac, whose relationship remains a delicate balance of professional partnership and simmering romantic tension.

The initial crime scene points towards a professional hit, meticulously staged and leaving few clues. However, as Liska and Kovac delve deeper, they uncover Jenkins's meticulously crafted double life. He wasn't just a successful executive; he was a deeply involved player in a shadowy world of corporate espionage and illicit affairs. This revelation expands the suspect pool exponentially, with each potential lead revealing more layers of deception within Jenkins's circle.

A key figure in the investigation is Sarah Jenkins, Arthur's widow. Initially presenting as a grieving spouse, Sarah slowly reveals a complex history with her husband, hinting at years of manipulation and hidden resentments. Her own past, shrouded in mystery, becomes increasingly relevant as the investigation progresses. Suspicion falls upon various individuals within Jenkins's professional and personal life, including his ambitious business rivals, a disgruntled former employee, and even a mysterious figure from Sarah's past.

The investigation becomes increasingly perilous as Liska and Kovac encounter threats and intimidation. Their relentless pursuit of the truth uncovers a conspiracy reaching far beyond a simple murder-for-hire scenario. The deeper they dig, the more they realize that Jenkins's death is connected to a much larger, more sinister plot involving blackmail, corporate sabotage, and potentially even murder years in the making. The "prior bad acts" of the title refer not only to Jenkins's own shady dealings, but also to the questionable pasts of those surrounding him, each secret fueling the escalating tension.

Throughout the novel, Hoag masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. The relationship between Liska and Kovac is a significant element, reflecting the emotional toll of their dangerous work and the growing connection between them despite their efforts to maintain professional distance. Overarching themes include the fragility of appearances, the pervasive nature of secrets, and the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition. Ultimately, "Prior Bad Acts" is a gripping thriller that explores the dark side of human nature and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets, even if it means murder. The climax brings a satisfying resolution, but also leaves lingering questions about the lasting impact of the uncovered truths on the characters and their lives.