The Shadows of Owls

A Good Samaritan finds that no good deed goes unpunished in this capable thriller from Keeble (Yellowfish). Researcher Kate DeShazer has been working for the state of Idaho, conducting a habitat survey. While driving home during a snowstorm, she comes upon a car wreck and its driver, a woman who calls herself Winona. Kate doesn't hesitate to help the woman, but finds that the situation is more complex than getting her warm and comfortable. Winona's body is covered in bruises, her purse has several hundred dollars in cash inside, and she insists that Kate not call the police. Winona is clearly afraid of something, and she begs her savior not to let "the Brotherhood" find her. Kate's continued efforts to protect Winona backfire, and place her life in jeopardy. The reader is left guessing about the significance of the opening scene, in which a man who works for Kate's former employer approaches her about data she gathered on migratory patterns of sea life. Readers will be engaged, but there's nothing particularly memorable in either the plot or the characters. (Oct.)