Wild Instinct by T. Jefferson Parker: Review

Sometimes you run across a book that hits too close to home. It’s either very close to current events or it’s predicting the future, especially where I live in California.

This one is an interesting blend of murder mystery and native history rolled into one. Check out my review on this new book below.

Wild Instinct by T. Jefferson Parker
Publisher: ‎ Minotaur Books
Publication date: ‎ November 11, 2025
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1250907912

OVERVIEW:
The hunt for the truth is the deadliest game.

Former Marine sniper Lew Gale, now a detective with the Orange County California Sheriff’s Department, is assigned to track and shoot a mountain lion that has killed a man in the rugged country east of Laguna Beach, California. The victim is Bennet Tarlow, a rich developer and man-about-town in upscale coastal Orange County.

The investigation takes a chilling turn when Lew and his new partner, Daniela Mendez, discover that Bennet was dead long before the lion got to him. And while he might have been the first to die, he certainly will not be the last.

Wild Instinct by T. Jefferson Parker Review

This author has been on my radar with his plot lines and subject matter. He writes in the genre I enjoy to dive into now and then.

Wild Instinct is a very unique and completely plausible story, if you know anything about what happens in California.

The ultrarich are playing games that end up in murder. With unique twists that dive into Native American history, we get bits and pieces of familial stories, and books that are full of foreshadowing, which add to the intrigue of the plot.

With that comes a true telling of stolen lands that Parker blends into the current plot. With a low-key approach to solving this strange murder, we are taken on a route that brings building suspense, multiple twists and turns, deadly threats, and more to find those responsible.

This author takes a unique approach in his story, keeping it old school police work, yet adds in highly detailed layers of development in both the characters and the location atmosphere. The main characters are a good blend of one who has learned patient police work and a new detective, both with their share of secret flaws and issues. Parker does not back away from a bit of shocking additions!

Wild Instinct is an insightful police procedural murder case that is interwoven with Native American culture, set in beautiful San Juan Capistrano. Engrossing and highly detailed, with two subplots weaving together. I am definitely reading this author again! He did not disappoint.

4 STARS!!

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.