A serial killer is on the loose! In THE COLLECTOR, someone is killing psychics, all of whom are loosely connected to a set of ancient artifacts believed to channel great power, maybe even the power of immortality, to whoever possesses them. And many people want them. But are the killings a means by which to obtain these artifacts, or some sort of revenge against the current owner? Following the brutal killing of Mimi Tran, a well- known member of the Vietnamese community in Orange County, California, Gia Moon, an artist and lesser known psychic, goes to the police to relate her vision of the killing. And the fact that she believes she will be the next victim. Will she or will she aid the police by envisioning the killer before he or she kills again?

Ms. Cruise has written a thriller that begins with a bang and keeps the reader guessing. Just when you're certain you know the killer's identity, another revelation swings the evidence pendulum in a completely different direction. Ms. Cruise masterfully weaves details about her characters, ancient history, ancient mythology, and the OC into a quilt of many possibilities. Along the way, there are several relationship sub-plots brewing—some new but challenged by the murders, others as dead as the unfortunate psychics.

By the time I hit the last 10 chapters (there are many but they're short), I found myself skimming to hurry to the end, then backpedalling to for detail. Ultimately, I discovered my suspicion as to the killer /was both right and wrong, making for a very satisfying ending to an intense tale. I understand that a sequel is underway. I'm looking forward to it, as well as to the movie.