Title: In the Dark
Author: Brian Freeman
First published December 11, 2008
357 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780312363291 (ISBN10: 031236329X)
Rating: 4.11
Overview
In Brian Freeman’s captivating thriller, In the Dark, Detective Jonathan Stride is forced to confront his past as he investigates a murder that shocks the quiet town of Duluth. Stride’s complicated history with his wife, Cindy, is brought to light when the victim is found on the same night that they fell in love.
The case had been closed for thirty years, but the arrival of Laura’s best friend, Tish Verdure, stirs up secrets that Stride never imagined. As Stride delves deeper into the investigation, he realizes that the violent events of the past are spilling over into the present.
With the discovery of a young girl drowned in the St. Louis River and a witness to the original murder attempting suicide, Stride must race against time to uncover the truth before it’s too late. In this stunning, atmospheric thriller, Freeman weaves a complex web of past and present that will keep you guessing until the very end.
About the Author
Meet Brian Freeman, the New York Times bestselling author behind some of the most gripping psychological thrillers of our time. His novels, including the Jonathan Stride and Frost Easton series, have been sold in 46 countries and translated into 22 languages.
What makes his writing so captivating? Readers love the way he brings settings to life, making you feel like you’re right there in the heart of the action.
But it’s his complex, engaging characters and twist-filled plots that keep you on the edge of your seat.
Notably, Brian was selected to continue Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne series, and his latest novel, THE BOURNE EVOLUTION, was named one of the Best Mysteries and Thrillers of 2020 by Kirkus. This isn’t his first award-winning book, either.
SPILLED BLOOD won Best Hardcover Novel in the annual Thriller Awards given by the International Thriller Writers organization, while THE BURYING PLACE was a finalist for the same award. THE DEEP, DEEP SNOW was also a finalist for the Edgar Award for Best Paperback Original.
What’s truly impressive is that Brian’s very first thriller, IMMORAL, won the Macavity Award for Best First Novel and was nominated for the Edgar, Dagger, Anthony, and Barry Awards. It was even named an International Book of the Month, a distinction he shares with other beloved authors like Harlan Coben and Lisa Unger.
If you prefer audiobooks, you’re in luck. All of Brian’s novels are available in audio format.
In fact, THE BONE HOUSE and SEASON OF FEAR were both finalists for Best Audiobook of the Year in Thriller/Suspense.
To learn more about Brian and his books, visit bfreemanbooks.com or follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@bfreemanbooks).
Editoral Review
In the Dark by Brian Freeman is a gripping thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Freeman, a bestselling author known for his stunning abilities to keep readers on their toes, created a masterpiece with this book, which was first published on December 11, 2008.
The book falls into the psychological thriller genre and is perfect for those who love to read about gritty crime scenes, haunting secrets, and twisted minds. The plot follows a series of gruesome murders in a small town in Minnesota.
Detective Jonathan Stride is assigned to the case and quickly realizes that there is more to the murders than meets the eye. Stride is accompanied by his partner, Serena Dial, and together, they embark on a dangerous journey to catch the killer before he strikes again.
The setting is dark and eerie, perfect for a book of this genre. One of the strengths of this book is Freeman’s remarkable character development.
Stride, Dial, and the other supporting characters are so well-drawn that readers will feel as if they know them personally. Freeman weaves complex relationships seamlessly throughout the narrative, creating a world that is both authentic and believable.
Freeman’s writing is another strong aspect of In the Dark. He writes in a concise and clear manner that feels almost poetic in its delivery.
The pacing of the novel is impeccable, with the plot moving forward at a steady yet suspenseful pace. The plot twists and turns as the detectives advance to solve the mystery, and Freeman does a fantastic job of keeping readers guessing until the very end.
The book touches on themes such as loyalty, family, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. It highlights the importance of perseverance and teamwork in solving complex crimes, and the impact that a crime can have on a small community.
In terms of flaws, some readers might find the plot formulaic, similar to other books in the psychological thriller genre, which can make it predictable at times. Additionally, the climax of the book might disappoint some readers as it is slightly rushed, leaving some loose ends untied.
Overall, In the Dark by Brian Freeman is a thrilling and well-crafted book that will entertain fans of the genre. With its complex characters, suspenseful plot, and skillful storytelling, Freeman has created a masterpiece that will keep readers captivated until the very end.
Therefore, it is recommended for those who enjoy crime thrillers and psychological suspense novels. This book earns a 4 out of 5-stars rating.
