Title: In the Clearing
Author: Robert Dugoni
First published May 17, 2016
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.27
Overview
In Robert Dugoni’s gripping novel, In the Clearing, Detective Tracy Crosswhite is once again on a mission to solve a cold case. With her skill and determination, Tracy takes on the challenge of investigating the mysterious disappearance of a young girl.
As she delves deeper into the case, Tracy uncovers a web of secrets hidden within the small town. With the help of her former police academy classmate, Jenny, and evidence collected by Jenny’s detective father, Tracy follows leads that bring her closer to the truth.
But as she gets closer to the truth, Tracy realizes that she might become the next victim. Can Tracy solve the case and deliver justice to the victim’s family, or will she fall victim to the town’s dark secrets?
Find out in this thrilling novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
About the Author
Meet Robert Dugoni, a renowned author who has made his mark in the literary world. His Tracy Crosswhite police series, set in Seattle, has sold over 8 million copies worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and a spot on the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and #1 Amazon bestselling lists.
But that’s not all – Dugoni is also the mastermind behind The Charles Jenkins espionage series, the David Sloane legal thriller series, and several stand-alone novels, including The 7th Canon and Damage Control.
In addition to his commercial success, Dugoni has also received critical recognition for his literary works such as The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, which was named Suspense Magazine’s 2018 Book of the Year. His narration of the book even won an AudioFile Earphones Award.
The World Played Chess, another one of his works, was well-received by critics. He has also written a nonfiction exposé, The Cyanide Canary, which was named a Washington Post Best Book of the Year.
Dugoni’s talent has not gone unnoticed in Hollywood. Several of his novels have been optioned for movies and television series.
He has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Nancy Pearl Award for Fiction and the Friends of Mystery Spotted Owl Award for best novel set in the Pacific Northwest. He has also been a finalist for the International Thriller Award, the Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction, the Silver Falchion Award for mystery, and the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award.
Dugoni’s books have been published in over 25 countries and translated into more than 30 languages. To learn more about this accomplished author, visit his website or follow him on Twitter @robertdugoni and Facebook.
Editoral Review
In the Clearing by Robert Dugoni is a gripping thriller novel that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Dugoni is an American author known for his crime, mystery, and thriller novels, and the first edition of In the Clearing was published on May 17, 2016.
The story is set in the small town of Cedar Grove, Washington, where a series of gruesome murders has shaken the community. Detective Tracy Crosswhite is assigned to the case, along with her partner Kinsington Rowe.
They soon discover that the murders are linked to a dark secret from the past, and the trail leads them to a wealthy family with a lot to hide. The novel follows the investigation as it unfolds, with crosscurrents of intrigue and suspicion weaving their way through the narrative.
The main characters are well-drawn and complex, and readers will feel invested in their journey. The setting is richly detailed, with vivid descriptions of the town and the surrounding wilderness providing a sense of place and atmosphere.
One of the strengths of In the Clearing is its pacing. The plot moves at a brisk clip, with tension and suspense building steadily as the detectives unravel the mystery.
The writing is crisp and clear, with a sharp focus on detail that keeps the reader engaged. Another noteworthy aspect of the novel is how it highlights issues of class and privilege.
The wealthy family at the center of the investigation wields their power and influence to protect their secrets, while the working-class detectives struggle to uncover the truth. This tension provides a compelling backdrop for the story and elevates it beyond a simple crime procedural.
However, there are a few weaknesses that detract from the overall quality of the book. Some of the dialogue feels stilted and artificial, and the characters can at times seem one-dimensional.
Additionally, while the plot is well-crafted, there are a few contrivances and coincidences that strain credulity. Despite these flaws, In the Clearing is a solid addition to the crime and thriller genre.
Fans of Dugoni’s previous works will not be disappointed, and newcomers to the author’s writing will find an engrossing read. The novel rates a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars, with high marks for pacing, setting, and themes.
Readers who enjoy a good mystery with a strong sense of place and character will find much to savor in this book.
