by Ace Atkins (Find the Book)
Edgar-finalist Atkins
showcases his versatility in his exciting, thoughtful second thriller
starring ex-Ranger-turned-lawman Quinn Colson (after 2011's The Ranger).
Colson, who survived tours of duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan, has
only recently become sheriff in Tibbehah County, Miss., where graft is
personified by Johnny Stagg, president of the board of county
supervisors. Stagg, who was Colson's opponent in a special election to
fill the vacant sheriff's position, is now determined to make life
difficult for his adversary. Things are challenging enough without this
personal animus. A battered child brought into the local trauma center
leads the authorities to a horrific baby farm, and Donnie Varner, an old
friend of Colson's, has gotten mixed up with some very bad and very
violent people. Atkins manages to sell the notion of a contemporary
laconic lead battling evil that could come straight out of a Gary Cooper
western. . -- Publisher's Weekly
