(Adult Mystery)Set in 1960's post-Vietnam in a small border community of Texas and Oklahoma, this book had more depth than I am used in a mystery. Usually, even with graphic, gritty mysteries, I can allow my mind to simply skip along and not have to worry too much about characterization or intricate plot twists. Not so with this selection.
An animal mutilator and torturer is on the loose. It's simply a matter of time before his victims turn to humans. Aging Constable Ned is afraid the killer is a member of his close-knit community. When his grandson Top comes to stay, the killer starts to target Ned's family. Ned has to start relying on more than his experience and traditional ways of crime-solving if he wants to stop the next strike.
The plot of this story rolls along like the Red River described in the book, winding to a surprising and satisfying climax. The vernacular is well-done and really adds to the story. It is told from different points of view ranging from an elderly grandfather to a 10-year old grandson and had me searching for clues in all their thoughts and speeches.
It isn't your typical mystery. If you're ready for a complex story about complex lives, look no further. I shall certainly be checking out Reavis Wortham's other books.
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