Wolf Time

Prolific, Edgar-winning Gores ( Hammett ; Dead Skip ) has written a topnotch thriller that compellingly explores the lust for power. Hollis (``Fletch'') Fletcher, a retired civil engineer in his late 50s, is practically a hermit in his cabin in the Minnesota woods, interested only in hunting. When he is shot by a sniper and left for dead, Fletch unwillingly must admit the incident wasn't a hunting accident. We know from the start that the killer is hoping to ingratiate himself with Gov. Gary Westergard, presidential candidate and Fletch's boyhood friend. After a reconciliation with his estranged daughter Nicole, Fletch submits to her goading and begins to hunt for the would-be killer--who turns out to be involved in Westergard's campaign. Westergard's former assistant and mistress, Nicole hopes to install herself and her husband into Westergard's inner circle. After a long, sporadic stalk and primary campaign--with many flashbacks to Fletch's youth--we and Fletch discover Westergard's ``shameful'' secret. Though the latter may strike some readers as no big deal, they'll keep turning pages in this fast, well-crafted read up to the shocking climax and chilling final twist. (Apr.)