Review by Gillian, Berkelouw Mona Vale.

Alma Boyd Takesue works for the National Parks Service and leads campaigns to clear the islands off the coast of California from feral animals and reintroduce native species. Alma is a scientist, rational, highly methodical in her approach to her work, a smooth communicator and dedicated public servant. She is also about to become a mother, unexpectedly and alone.

Dave La Joy is determined to disrupt her plans. He has created an organization dedicated to protecting all animals from cruelty and exploitation - no matter where they are or how they got there.  He is a "self-made" business man, adroit at manipulating the media  and so determhat he is willing to sacrifice the comfort, safety and even the lives of those who support him and his cause.

 Boyle invests this book with authenticity. From an opening that includes a detailed map of the islands and channel, to early episodes showing the treachery awaiting the ill-prepared or inattentive who venture into the waters, there is a heightened sense of peril at work. Family connections to the channel and the islands entwine the characters and Boyle unfurls their stories to providing a rich context for the drama.

 When the Killing's Done is an engrossing novel that studies a very modern conflict. Everything about it is accomplished and convincing