Perfect Storm

Shelton’s taut sixth entry in the Alaska Wild series (after Lost Hours) pushes writer Beth Rivers to her breaking point. A year ago, Beth was kidnapped by Travis Walker, who held her captive for three days before he was arrested. Since then, Beth has found a new home and relative peace in Benedict, Ala., but the past resurfaces when Travis escapes from prison and leaves behind a note vowing to find and kill Beth. To evade him, Beth and her boyfriend, Tex, head to the remote community of Blue Mine, only to learn that locals are dealing with a spate of recent murders. Though one of the victims was stabbed, most residents believe the killings are the work of a Bigfoot-like creature. Beth and Tex launch an investigation, returning to Benedict to enlist help from their police contacts, but soon, one of their key witnesses disappears. Haunted by visions of both Travis and Bigfoot, Beth struggles to keep her head above water as she fights to stay alive and solve the murders. Shelton conjures a spooky atmosphere and near-unbearable suspense, and further develops the series’ on-going story lines without alienating new readers. This series continues to impress. (Dec.)