by John CONOLLY
First published 2010
Young soldier Damien Patchett returns from Iraq in early 2009. A few months later, in May, he takes a revolver on a walk and kills himself. His father Bennett suspects something darker lies behind the suicide. He approaches private detective Charlie Parker to investigate his son's death. The same day Bennett makes his request, police discover a dead officer near the burned remains of the Blue Moon bar. Parker's investigation reveals that Damien belonged to a group of disillusioned veterans who regularly cross the Maine-Canada border. This remote region serves as a corridor for smuggling drugs, alcohol, people, and money. Meanwhile, a mysterious elderly man travels toward Maine. Though sick, he remains capable of ruthless violence and seeks revenge. Parker calls on his allies Louis and Angel for help. Even with their support, he must confront an adversary he fears more than any other.
Genres: mystery, crime, thriller, action
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Blue Moon Bar, Canada, Iraq, Maine
Period: 2009
409 pages · Hardcover · Atria Books
Content warnings: violence