The Spring of Our Exile

VOYA - Voya Reviews

Rich with the atmosphere of the Louisiana bayou, this thriller is fourth in a series of books featuring sheriff's officer Dylan St. John. When Dylan encounters a high-speed car chase late one night, he is surprised to find that the drivers are former girlfriend Becky in one car with her enraged husband in pursuit. An ensuing gun battle seals the now-revived connection between Dylan and the displaced Becky, threatening Dylan's marriage to the ever-loyal Susan. This does not turn out to be a story about dalliance, however, but about murderous threats, mysterious drug dealers, and corruption in high places. Though Dylan's past as a controversial parole officer is important to the story, readers new to the series will find allusions unintrusive, possibly whetting the appetite for previous volumes. For readers unfamiliar with the Louisiana capitol, however, references to the Pentagon [Barracks] might prove initially confusing. A romantic front cover will probably discourage male readers. This is unfortunate because there is plenty of action here. Some natural lessons about faith, loyalty, truth, and forgiveness are included for Christian readers. This mystery is no literary masterpiece but an exciting read nonetheless. VOYA CODES: 3Q 4P S A/YA (Readable without serious defects; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult and Young Adult). 1999, Bethany House, Ages 16 to Adult, 221p, $8.99 Trade pb. Reviewer: Heidi Borton