'Don't Turn Around', 'Knife River' a pair of thrilling crime novels that are worth the read

Here's a quick look at a recent pair of excellent, fast-paced crime novels.

Full of intriguing plot twists that grab your attention, these will keep you flipping the pages in wonderment. One is set in New York state, the other out West. Each is likely to be nominated for a number of "Best in Genre" awards.

"Don't Turn Around" by Ann Arbor author Harry Dolan (Atlantic, $27) is a stand-alone crime thriller that's set in the fictitious college town of Alexander, N.Y.

It opens in 1974, when 11-year-old Kate Summerlin climbs out of her bedroom window and makes a discovery that will change her life forever. She finds the body of a beautiful young college student. Kate hears a warning from the murderer — "Merkury", who has claimed and marked his first victim.

Flash forward 18 years — Kate is now a successful true-crime writer with her own secrets. Dolan deftly continues utilizing flashback scenes and more deadly situations. This is a compelling tale of death and deceit.

"Knife River" by Baron Birtcher (Open Road, $35.99 hb, $19.95 pb) is a well-designed book showcasing small-town sheriff, conservation officer and rancher Ty Dawson.

It opens in the 1970s with a case involving an illegal eagle poacher but quickly goes into events that took place years earlier and have been a town secret.

Dawson is trying to keep local businessmen and townspeople happy. He learns of a major development: a concert stage is being built in his area for a special limited rock-and-roll recording session.

Filled with highly atmospheric scenes and murderous insights, Birtcher's latest release has strong female characters and brisk dialogue. While "Knife River" is the fourth in his series featuring Ty Dawson, it works well as a stand-alone novel.

You won't get much sleep once you start one of these crime thrillers — you've been warned!

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, has reviewed crime novels and Michigan books regularly since 1987. His email address is raywalsh@voyager.net.