River of Glass

River of Glass is the third book to feature the tough ex-cop Jared McKean who now makes his living as a PI. The first two novels established the characters in his life, including his disabled son, and set the scene for this “adventure” that comes all unlooked-for one night. He’s suddenly pitched into a people trafficking investigation as, first, the body of an Asian woman is found in a dumpster at the back of his office block, and then an older woman appears claiming to be his half-sister from Vietnam.

Over the last two years, a number of message books have been published where the authors discuss contemporary issues and indicate quite firmly how we should feel about them. This book has a well-established context for the issue and, more importantly, allows matters to develop organically rather than foist ever darker situations on to our plates to engage our sympathies. Our hero’s niece has gone missing after arriving in America. It’s likely she’s being sold. Since family is involved, our hero gets actively engaged in chasing down every clue. All is told in pleasingly spiky prose which positively bristles with the darker side of wit. This is strongly recommended.