Believe No One

Fine attention to forensics and investigative techniques distinguishes this stellar thriller, a sequel to 2014’s Everyone Lies, by the pseudonymous Garrett (British crime writer Margaret Murphy and forensic scientist Dave Barclay). Det. Chief Insp. Kate Simms of the U.K. is on a “method exchange team” with the St. Louis police to share expertise, while distancing herself from the ramifications of her professional and personal relationship with forensics expert Professor Nick Fennimore. Coincidentally, Nick is on a U.S. book tour, hoping he can schedule a St. Louis stop. Their paths cross when a serial-killer case Kate is involved with relates to a similar one in Oklahoma that Nick is assisting. A pattern of cross-country murders of young mothers whose children disappear emerges. The hunt for the killer evolves into a search for Red Patterson, a nine-year-old with exceptional survivor skills. The brisk, complex plot delivers insight into the characters of Kate and Nick, who is forever searching for his missing daughter. Agent: Felicity Blunt, Curtis Brown (U.K.). (July)