THE TUNNELS

Author: Michelle Gagnon ISBN: 077832446X 6/2007 SUSPENSE Publisher: MIRA

An old, abandoned tunnel system beneath a prestigious New England college becomes the gruesome stalking ground of a serial killer. The tragedy unfolding at her alma mater chills FBI Special Agent Kelly Jones to the bone. The bodies of two female students are found mutilated in the dark labyrinth beneath the school, haunting symbols painted on the walls behind them. The connection between the victims—daughters of powerful men—and the killer's cryptic messages is rooted in an ancient ritual. The killer is taunting Kelly, daring her to follow him down a dangerous path from which only one can emerge....

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

THE TUNNELS is like a scrumptious hot fudge sundae, topped off with a decadently rich extra dollop of whipped cream. Smoothly executed, fast-paced with an incredible sense of mounting suspense, Ms. Gagnon's dramatic debut is a chilling, fascinating stab into terror.

From an exciting suspense featuring a creepy serial killer, an atmospheric setting and a highly inventive dab of ancient magic to some great characterizations, THE TUNNELS is enthralling. This twisty, dark thriller introduces the finely sketched, complex Kelly Jones. The sharp, work-obsessed FBI agent Jones is a sometimes tragic figure who really begins to rock when paired with the equally appealing, ex-FBI agent, Jake Riley. The budding involvement between these two provides a sometimes light-hearted, sometimes sexually charged reprieve from the bleaker elements within THE TUNNELS. As Jones and Riley's relationship simmers, THE TUNNELS explodes with intrigue, danger and terrifying fear.

Apparently, THE TUNNELS is the start of a Kelly Jones mystery series. I hope Jake Riley returns in future adventures.

THE TUNNELS is terrific.

Debbie Jett