In the Bones

Wegert (The Coldest Case) blends police procedural and psychological suspense in this entertaining spin-off from her Shana Merchant series. In Upstate New York’s Thousand Islands, housekeeper Nicole Durham is thrilled to land a job with retired NHL star Mikko Helle at his recently renovated waterfront home. Her excitement turns to horror, however, when she hears unsettling noises while working alone and discovers a woman hiding in the ceiling vent. After authorities conclude that the woman, who says her name is Jenny Smith, has been secretly squatting in the homes of several wealthy locals, Jenny reveals another shock: she’s found a skeleton in Nikko’s basement. The coroner concludes that it belongs to a young woman who most likely died within the last year. Sheriff Maureen McIntyre—Nicole’s sister—investigates, working alongside officers Shana Merchant, Tim Wellington, and other minor figures from Wegert’s previous books. The narrative features a large cast, but Wegert deftly juggles their voices and points of view, with each perspective shift adding crucial context to the central mystery. Copious cliffhangers and red herrings set the stage for an explosive finale. It’s a shrewd shocker that should win the author new fans. Agent: Chris Bucci, Aevitas Creative Management. (Nov.)