The letter keeper

Martin follows up The Water Keeper with this heartrending, action-packed chapter in the saga of Murphy Shepherd. Shepherd, an Anglican priest and secret operative who rescues victims of sex trafficking, is back on the case. This time, it's personal: Someone is after Shepherd and those he loves. While taking a much-needed break in Florida, Shepherd's boat is blown up, and he comes to in Freetown, the recovery center for sex trafficking victims in Colorado that Shepherd runs along with his mentor, Bones. Despite strong security measures, Freetown is targeted by the traffickers, who kidnap Shepherd's wife, daughters, and one of their friends. The race is on as Shepherd hunts them across the country, and after several attempts on his life, he fears he may not survive. Martin's characters authentically wrestle with faith under trying circumstances, and the narrative casts light on the underworld of sex trafficking and those risking everything to save the victims. This isn't the place to start for newcomers, but those familiar with the series will appreciate the emotional punch this rip-roaring adventure packs. (June)