SHIMMER

Detective Sam Becket (Ralph’s Children, 2008, etc.) returns to protect Miami Beach from a mysterious and gruesome murderer.

Grace Becket’s ever-expanding family is her number one priority. So when her sister Claudia shows up on her doorstep, she’s thrilled even though the circumstances are less than ideal. At first Claudia tries to hide the truth, but eventually she comes clean to her sister about the recent infidelity that’s made her vulnerable to blackmail. She thinks she’ll feel safer hiding out in Miami Beach with Grace in spite of the city’s recent crime wave. Meanwhile, Grace’s husband, police detective Sam, is leading the investigation concerning a body found floating in a rowboat off the coast. The reliability of local homeless woman Mildred Bleeker, Sam’s only lead in the case, is undermined by her fondness for Manischewitz. Bleeker claims to have seen a shimmering sliver stranger slinking around town. But she’s unwilling to talk to anyone except Sam about her suspicions. Struggling to balance his investigation and the ever-increasing drama in his family, Sam must put everything on hold when Claudia’s abrupt departure makes Grace suspect foul play. Though he leaves Grace to track down Claudia and make sure she’s safe, he soon has to wonder which of the sisters is in greater danger and whether he’ll be able to help or get trapped as well.

The characters may not be complex, but they’re certainly easy to take. An enjoyable diversion that builds up some satisfying suspense.