 |
Bedford Township has seen its share of ups and downs as a community, from prosperity to near desertion. In 2012, the announcement of the construction of a new dam has led to rejuvenation. However, a new problem has arisen with new arrivals as crime has begun to skyrocket. Detective Ben Creager and his partner, Ritch, are experiencing this phenomenon firsthand with each new crime scene to explore. The crimes are becoming more brazen, from daylight shootouts between thieves and security guards to the string of murders that appear almost ritualistic in nature. Creager’s skills are put to the test, as is his mental health, since he has never fully recovered from a near-fatal car crash in his youth. As the 911 calls keep coming in, Bedford Township’s future may be in doubt.
Bedlam has begun to consume the suburban Bedford Township as the book begins, and the possibility of it reaching epic proportions provides much of the thrills. Although he is the primary character, Ben Creager is only one of many interesting characters who figure prominently throughout the book. For instance, his partner, Ritch, is developed as a solid supporting character who ably backs up the protagonist when not actively seeking out the next paramour in his life. Meanwhile, Creager’s friend Boggs works as a radio DJ and may aid in getting a serial killer to surface unless the killer gets to him first. As the protagonist’s friend, he serves as a plot device that not only raises the stakes for Creager to solve the case but also increases the overall suspense in the book. Ben’s support system is his wife, Sheri, a doctor with endless patience and the kindest of hearts. The author balances aspects of melancholy with humor, romance, and suspense. In short, the story proves entertaining in every conceivable way.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review