#aww2012 Book Four: Dead Heat by Bronwyn Parry
This book spooked the pants off me. Just a warning: if you’re into camping, hiking, or anything outdoorsy, you’re gonna wanna skip this because I get freaked out taking my dog for a walk past trees in pavers now. And I’m pretty sure this is not just me being a wimp. I think I used ‘genuinely chilling’ in my grown-up review, and I stand by it. It’s all hot summer weather, and there’s a fire at some point, and all the characters are sweaty, and I was hiding under my comforter. Chilled.
Basic Plot Summary: Jo takes a job as a Ranger on the edge of the NSW outback, because she needs some peace and some healing, and she knows the bush can provide her that. What she doesn’t expect is a dead guy to show up in the picnic area. And that dead guy to lead to another dead guy. And then a potential drug cartel. On her side, though, is Nick - a former undercover cop whose final assignment has left him in an ambiguous position with his colleagues - they don’t know if he’s dirty or clean. But everyone will have to trust him in order to stop darkness taking over the beautiful - if isolated - area.
Bottom Line: This is a really solid suspense novel with an authentic Australian setting. Parry doesn’t shy away from the dark aspects of her story, but the growing relationship between the two main characters lends a feeling of hope and potential that counteracts the violence. Very enjoyable, highly recommended.
