This book was full of twists and turns, characters you loved and characters you loved to hate. I had not read the first book in this series, however, I still felt like I understood most of the content. The previous book was not a pre-requisite. I was most invested in the trajectory of the young african boys, including a few subplot lines. I am wondering if I were to go back and read the previous book, if I would understand more of the back story of her family, particularly with her father. I have passed the book on to multiple people and all have enjoyed it. I love a bad-ass female lead, so this is a wonderful go-to to fulfill that desire. It is without reservation that I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery/ Thriller.