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The Gathering by C J Tudor

This is a chilling murder mystery set against the stark background of a small town in Alaska where the murder of a teenage boy sets off a chain reaction of violence and prejudice.

In this story, we follow Detective Barbara Atkins, an experienced specialist in vampire killings who is tasked with determining whether or not a vampire was responsible for the brutal slaying and if so, does that solitary act necessitate a cull.

Needless to say, some of the townspeople don't warm to Barbara's presence. The small, tight-knit community, don't feel they need outsiders dictating how they handle their town and the adjacent Colony. Themes of hatred, racism and fear of the unknown are explored within the town and colony, each deeply suspicious of the other.

Barbara needs to know the truth and as the past unfolds, she and Tucker, the former sheriff, explore historic and present-day deceits until they reach an unexpected resolution.

Don’t be put off by the idea of vampires. This is a well-constructed gripping story, dark but not overly gory. The majority of our Readers found it to be a page-turner.

Pat Mutton