Denial: A Lew Fonesca Mystery

In the brilliant scene that introduces Kaminsky's haunting story, PI Lew Fonesca reluctantly opens his door to Ann Horowitz, a no-nonsense octogenarian therapist. Under Ann's skillful prodding, Lew admits he has been investigating two separate cases, one almost comic and one intensely tragic. A nursing-home resident is certain she witnessed a murder and asks Lew to prove she's not dotty. While most readers will spot the significant clue in the old woman's tale, all will be surprised by the only-in-Florida twist. The second case—the search for the hit-and-run driver who killed a 14-year-old boy—has plunged Lew into black despair, for it reignites the fierce, unrelenting anguish of losing his wife the very same way four years earlier. Finding the boy's killer has not eased his broken soul. Ann finally asks Lew the question that will change everything: if you're so good at finding people, why aren't you looking for the person who killed your wife? Readers familiar with the series, having watched Lew swamped by sadness in three earlier books (Vengeance , etc.), will especially appreciate the possibilities of his decision, but even those who meet him for the first time cannot help cheering for him. Agent, Donald Maass. (June 1)