(7/1/2015)
When an author discovers a "voice", the writer and the reader both profit because that character becomes both a friend and confidant to each. That relationship can last decades such as Sanford's Lucas Davenport, Connelly's Harry Bosch, and Burke's Dave Robicheau have to many. David Harwood, the protagonist in this novel, showed promise as a "voice" but, in Barclay's case, we are required to devote three book reads to get to know him since this book is Part 1 of a trilogy. Other authors create stories that begin and end in one volume while Barclay does not. While David Harwood and his family are the main focus of the ongoing story, the reader is introduced to over 50 characters in this book all of which show interest if developed fully- the police chief, the former mayor, the Thackery College staff, etc. All of the characters seem to either have significant character flaws or a "to be revealed" secret as their hometown, Broken Falls, New York falls into decline creating an environment where misfits and evil deeds seem to prevail. The plot was a "page turner" and the characters were all interesting (if somewhat predictable). My disappointment with the novel stems from the fact that I did not know that it was Part 1/3 and there were too many threads left open for the next installment. I recommend the book with the warning that there will be more to follow.