The Innocence Game

In this ambitious stand-alone from Harvey (The Chicago Way and three other Mike Kelly PI novels), three Northwestern journalist students—Ian Joyce, Jake Havens, and Sarah Gold—enroll in a special course that requires them to investigate cases that strongly suggest the accused were wrongfully convicted. One case concerns the murder of 10-year-old Skylar Wingate. The man convicted of the crime has long since died, but new evidence supports the theory that the real killer is still alive. On a visit to the site where Skylar was found buried, the three students discover the body of another boy in a cave. When their search for the killer brings them into contact with the corrupt underbelly of the Chicago police, they realize they must solve the crime—not only for the sake of justice but to save their own lives. Although Harvey makes some far-fetched connections in the wrap-up, the suspense remains high throughout. Author tour. Agent: David Gernert, the Gernert Company. (May)