Publisher's Weekly
Bayer's latest thriller may surpass even his Edgar-winning Peregrine and bestselling Switch (basis of a TV series) in popularity. A large cast and many layers are involved in the new novel, set in Jerusalem. David Bar-Lev of the city's criminal division exhaustively pursues each lead in a series of murders in which victims are similarly marked. Since David and his team of detectives find no other connection as they investigate the ''pattern crimes,'' the mystery seems insoluble. But David widens his approach, contemplating the fight for dominance of Israel by zealots in religious, military and political factions that disrupt the ancient city. Eventually, the detective and his dedicated force uncover a monstrous plot as well as the means to prevent a crime that could destroy the state. This labyrinthine novel exploits sex, violence and matters of conscience in the persons of David's lover Anna; her former lover, a Soviet defector who comes to Jerusalem; disillusioned war heroes and other well-realized characters. 60,000 first printing; BOMC alternate.

Library Journal
A series of murder victims marked with double slashes galvanizes the Jerusalem police into action. Staunch, sensitive, and handsome David Bar-Lev, 36-year-old commanding officer of the Pattern Crimes Unit and lover of beautiful Russian defector and world-class cellist Anna, tries to establish some connection between the otherwise unrelated murders. Gradually he uncovers an ''artful'' conspiracy (involving a misguided Dallas oil man, a retired and vengeful Israeli general, a rabble-rousing rabbi, and an overly zealous Shin Bet agent) to ignite another Arab/Israeli war by bombing the Dome of the Rock. Incisive prose, memorable characterization, a carefully orchestrated sense of place, and an intricate but lucid plot enhance this superlative, masterfully rendered police procedural. Excellent and provocative fiction. BOMC featured alternate. Rex E. Klett, Anson Cty. Lib., Wadesboro, N.C.