Silent Mercy by Linda Fairstein

Prosecutor Alexandra Cooper is on the scene of a late night fire on the steps of a church. When a headless corpse is discovered in the midst of the burning blanket, the crowd gathers nearer, curious. Partnered with Detectives Mike Chapman and Mercer, the three work together to investigate this gruesome death. The similarity to another earlier case leads them to believe the crimes are related. When yet another young woman is found with her throat cut, and similar injuries, the entire force is concentrating on finding the murderer. Fairstein writes an exciting, thrilling mystery that gives the reader a bit of religious historical background of the New York City area. I really enjoyed the story.