First published 2009
Mark Darrow stands at the gates of Caldwell College, the small Ohio institution that transformed his life. His former professor Lionel Farr has asked him to serve as president after an embezzlement scandal nearly destroyed the school. Darrow accepts, but his homecoming forces him to confront a sixteen year old tragedy. On the night he led Caldwell to victory as star quarterback, he found Angela Hall's body at the base of the campus bell tower called the Spire. His best friend Steve Tillman was convicted of her murder and sentenced to life in prison. Now, as Darrow struggles to save the college and grows closer to Farr's troubled daughter, he begins investigating Angela's death. The evidence suggests Steve is innocent and the real killer remains free. When another death occurs, Darrow realizes he has become a target. He must uncover the truth before the murderer strikes again.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, contemporary, thriller, academic
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, investigation, redemption, second-chance
Setting: Caldwell College, Ohio
Period: 16 years ago
371 pages · Hardcover · Henry Holt and Co.
Content warnings: death, murder