Five days ago, aspiring crime novelist Jason Swike awoke chained to the wall of a run-down horse stable, convinced he would soon die at the hands of Crackerjack, the infamous serial killer who had terrorized the residents of Massachusetts for the past year-capturing and tormenting men, painting whimsical designs on their faces before shattering their bones and ending their lives. Just when death seems inevitable, Jason, with the help of another captive, manages to kill the madman and escape.

Hailed as a hero, Jason reaps the benefits of his newfound fame: a book deal, a possible reconciliation with his estranged wife, and reward money he can use to pay for his son's costly medical treatments. But he soon realizes the nightmare that began in the deserted stable is far from over, as he is drawn into a twisted game where the darkest terror may not be the psychopath manipulating his every move, but what Jason may have to do to survive...

About the Author
James Hankins writes thrillers, mysteries, and novels of suspense, including his latest, The Inside Dark. His previous books-The Prettiest One, Shady Cross, Brothers and Bones, Drawn, and Jack of Spades-all became Kindle #1 bestsellers, while Brothers and Bones was named to the Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2013 list. Hankins lives north of Boston with his wife and sons, and can be reached through his website, www.jameshankinsbooks.com; on Twitter @James_Hankins_; and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JamesHankinsAuthorPage.

Reviews

"Wonderfully fast-paced and suspenseful! Hooked me from the first page. I'd recommend to anyone who likes nice, twisty suspense novels." -Jennifer Jaynes, USA Today bestselling author of Never Smile at Strangers

Book Information
ISBN 9781477819906
Author James Hankins
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint Thomas & Mercer
Publisher Amazon Publishing
Weight(grams) 363g
Dimensions(mm) 210mm * 140mm * 22mm