DOWN TO THE WIRE by David Rosenfelt
Rosenfelt, known for his Andy Carpenter series, introduces a new character in Chris Turley, a good, but not great, small town newspaper reporter who lives in the legacy of his famous newspaper reporter father. He is looking for that one great story that will net him the Pulitzer and erase any comparisons to his dad.
An anonymous tipster phones with possible information regarding corruption at a high level government office. Turley is asked to meet the anonymous caller in the parking lot of a nearby medical center. Upon arrival, Turley is unable to meet up with the tipster, but instead witnesses the explosive destruction of the medical building. He is able to run into the building to save several people before the building collapses. Instant fame follows as every TV tabloid and news show clamors for an interview with Turley.
Rosenfelt, known for his Andy Carpenter series, introduces a new character in Chris Turley, a good, but not great, small town newspaper reporter who lives in the legacy of his famous newspaper reporter father. He is looking for that one great story that will net him the Pulitzer and erase any comparisons to his dad.
An anonymous tipster phones with possible information regarding corruption at a high level government office. Turley is asked to meet the anonymous caller in the parking lot of a nearby medical center. Upon arrival, Turley is unable to meet up with the tipster, but instead witnesses the explosive destruction of the medical building. He is able to run into the building to save several people before the building collapses. Instant fame follows as every TV tabloid and news show clamors for an interview with Turley.
He learns quickly, however, that the "madman" responsible for the explosion is not finished with his killing spree. Through almost daily anonymous phone calls, he utilizes Turley as his pawn and "mouthpiece" to report on his ongoing random murder spree. Turley complies as his continued reporting may lead to the coveted Pulitzer. Turley is also wondering about the motive for the killings, and why he was selected by the crazed killer.
Rosenfelt's writing is succinct and to the point. The story is suspenseful and often surprising. As is the case with many of the popular crime/thriller authors, the ending is a disappointment and not very satisfying. However, the ride there is a thrill.
Rosenfelt is known for his Andy Carpenter series of crime novels. In this book, he keeps the humor of the Carpenter series, but loses the omnipresent golden retriever. Still a good read with enough believable plot twists and turns to make it worth the read.
