DEAD RIGHT

Author: Brenda Novak ISBN: 0778324397 8/2007 SUSPENSE Publisher: MIRA

The people of Stillwater, Mississippi, are asking questions about murder. Again. Twenty years ago, Madeline Barker’s father disappeared. Despite what everyone else thinks, she’s convinced her stepfamily had nothing to do with it. But the discovery of his car proves he didn’t just drive away. Worse, the police find something in his trunk that says there’s more to this case than murder. With no other recourse, Madeline decides to hire a private investigator—even if the cops don’t like it. Even if her family doesn’t like it. But when PI Hunter Solozano begins to uncover some shocking evidence, someone in Stillwater is determined to put a stop to Madeline’s search for the truth. And that means putting a stop to her. Permanently.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

In a last ditch effort to find her long missing father, Madeline Barker hires an Ace P.I., Hunter. While the sparks of passion fly between the two of them, Hunter uncovers evidence that Madeline's sainted father may have been evil beyond her wildest dreams. However, someone close to Madeline wants to stop the truth from being revealed, despite the cost.

This story is outstanding. The plot is twisted and Novak leaves the reader swearing that you know the culprit from the beginning, only to prove you wrong in the end. The characters are real and easy to believe. Novak's storyline is one that is an easy read, yet will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more. This was an enjoyable read for me. I had difficulty putting DEAD RIGHT down and was truly shocked at the ending. Novak delivers a true suspense with this novel.

Kym Oetting