Eric Rickstad's THE SILENT GIRLS is a terrific read, but LIE IN WAIT is even better. They both take place in Vermont, an area Rickstad brings to life so well, it was no surprise to find out it's his home state. The story takes place in fall, moving towards winter, which adds to the story's already chilling atmosphere.

Jessica, who is babysitting for the lead attorney in a Gay Rights case, is murdered. At first, Detective Sonja Test believes the murder relates to the case somehow. But the more she digs, she uncovers past secrets and tragedies that play greater roles than the present angry tension in the town.

Rickstad has created a well-developed and well-rounded character in Test, who also appears in THE SILENT GIRLS. Test has two kids and a loving husband, so she battles daily between guilt from not spending enough time with her family and her need to succeed in solving cases and protecting the innocent. More than most detectives, it's easy to both relate to her and root for her to succeed in both arenas.

Rickstad's talent for characters doesn't end there though: the lead attorney and his wife; Jed King; Barry Jenkins and other supporting characters come to life as well.

Twists and turns abound, and Rickstad's readers will keep turning pages late into the night to finish—at least I did. Surprises come from different places, and while some might be red herrings, Rickstad definitely can plot a terrific suspense novel with the best of them. I look forward to reading more of his work. His compassion for humanity comes through, and I think all of us will find someone to relate to his characters as they're written for everyone, not just the thriller aficionado.