Desperate Measures

Starred review. "Bannister's plotting is neat and her characterization smooth, with just enough irony to keep people from seeming ostentatiously noble."--Publishers Weekly, on Deadly Virtues

..".one of the undersung treasures of the mystery genre."--The Chicago Tribune

Starred review. "Another stunning, paranoia-doused psychological suspense novel guaranteed to keep readers glued to their seats."--Library Journal, on Deadly Virtues

"After a cliff-hanger ending inPerfect Sins, Bannister s third series outing finds police officer Hazel Best and her friend Gabriel Ash in a state of disbelief. Ash s kidnapped wife, Cathy, has made contact; the Somali pirates holding her are willing to make a deal for her return, but it is not one that either Ash or Hazel can live with. Desperate to get his family back, Ash comes up with a plan he shares with no one, to Hazel s dismay. When Hazel sees the results of Ash s actions, she is shocked into making big decisions of her own that will change both their lives forever. VERDICT Bannister stays true to her reputation for excellent police procedurals. Readers will be unable to put down this latest tale of suspense."

Ash and chipper Hazel are a compelling-enough duo to keep readers turning pages. Ash s talking dog, Patience, will delight animal lovers, and a subplot involving a homeless teen provides a heartwarming contrast to Ash s conniving wife."

Jane Copland narrates this third Gabriel Ash mystery with the compassion and subtle humor it deserves Copland skillfully portrays Ash's desperation and gratitude Several fascinating subplots, along with the detailed police work that accompanies a complicated crime, are equally well rendered. Many other appealing characters make this mystery particularly engaging. "

When Gabrielle Ash's wife and kids were kidnapped four years ago by Somali pirates, his life spiraled out of control. He left his job working for the British government and moved to a small town where he descended into near madness. But with the help of his dog, Patience, and his friendship with young police officer Hazel Best, his focus returned. When he discovers that his wife is still alive, Ash is once again filled with hope and fear. Hope that he has another chance to find her and their two young sons; fear that, in trying, he may bring about their deaths.