Suspense and mystery dominate this exciting double-layered story of a misfit high-school boy giving evidence to the police after a multiple shooting. Price alternates scenes between the often-contentious interrogation and Gabriel’s more expansive memories of the events leading to his testimony. The author deftly manages the plot so that readers eventually may suspect that unreliable narrator Gabriel could be the culprit. Gabriel certainly has his own emotional problems and comes perilously close to stalking a girl he believes may be abused. He spies on the remains of a former hippie cult, even when it becomes clear that the cult and the characters surrounding it are dangerous. The author writes intriguing and believable characters and keeps a stream of realism moving through the story even when neither readers nor Gabriel are really sure what’s going on. Patience from readers won’t be required, though, as plenty of action keeps the narrative moving while the plot details unfold. The result is not only suspense but a memorable and believable characterization. Top notch. (Thriller. YA)
