Swierczynski, Duane

An unstoppable listen, highly recommended for those craving a thrilling break from reality.

Compelling not for its solution but for the act of solving, with modern cultural references and screen-worthy action. Readers who enjoy redemption and comeuppance dispensed by smartly written characters will enjoy.

This high-on-thrills, low-on-gore thriller from Shamus Award winner Swierczynski (Fun & Games; Hell & Gone) is really a family story at heart and is told in large part through Sarie's diarylike letters written to her deceased mother. This gives the novel a poignant edge, while showcasing Sarie's dry wit and original voice. Her herculean efforts to keep her father and younger brother from becoming suspicious while her life spirals out of control are a joy for any fan of clever, edgy thrillers populated with quirky characters.

Well, bam, bam, bam...

Understandably devastated by the revenge killing of his partner's entire family, ex-cop Charlie Hardie hides himself away, essentially serving as a house sitter...