Beckon

February 13, 2012
An anthropologist, an ex-cop, and a desperate husband all cross paths in this disturbing thriller. Jack, a Ph.D. student, sets out with his friend Rudy to visit Beckon, Wyo., a town famous for its Native American legend about a Soul Eater that lives in the caves nearby. Seeking answers about his father’s disappearance, Jack, along with a friend, goes to the caves only to make a terrible discovery. Meanwhile, ex-cop Elina goes looking for her cousin in Beckon, but also ends up missing. George, an aging man, travels to the town hoping to find a miracle cure for his wife, who suffers from Alzheimer’s. Although these strangers have different reasons for being in Beckon, truly terrifying events thrust the three into one another’s lives. Pawlik (Vanish) delivers a fast-paced, creepy story that will surely have readers guessing until the very end. Horror fans especially may enjoy this violent, twisted tale that has no shortage of strange creatures, sick businessmen, and shocking secrets. Agent: Les Stobbe.

Starred review from April 15, 2012

Beckon, WY, is known for the Native American legend of the soul eater. Three people travel to the town for different reasons. Jack is looking for clues to his father's disappearance. Elina seeks her missing cousin, George a cure for his wife, who suffers from Alzheimer's. Each of them finds a secret in Beckon, though it is not the answer that any of them is looking for. The question is, will any of them make it back home? VERDICT Fast-paced and violent, this creepy thriller by the Christie Award-winning author of Vanish should appeal to fans of Frank Peretti and Terri Blackstock.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.