In Atkins's improbable sequel to his equally improbable debut, Ashes, Ashes
, Dr. Barrett Conyors proves once again she's more than just a forensic psychiatrist who cares too much; she's also an action hero. Having prevented the Manhattan water supply from being contaminated by the plague in Ashes, Ashes
, Conyors now stumbles upon a white slave ring that preys on foster children run by Chase Strand, a social worker for New York City's Department of Family and Youth Services. Despite being a new mother, Conyors repeatedly, and often heedlessly, hurls herself into harm's way, without ever suffering serious consequences. The book's big reveal—the identity of the higher-up behind Strand's evil—will surprise few, given the portrayal of that character beforehand. One can only hope that the author, who's a psychiatrist on the Yale clinical faculty, will use his impressive professional experience to create a more realistic thriller next time. (Nov.)
