I've read one of C. J. Box's novels in the Joe Pickett series, so I selected this stand-alone novel expecting a good read. It is that, but I must admit it scared the heck out of me. I couldn't wait for the end because I couldn't take much more.
The story is about a long-haul trucker who preys on young women, calling himself the Lizard King. This guy is scary because he's such a thorough planner and so inhuman. Most of his victims are the prostitutes called "lot lizards" who work truck stops, simply going from truck to truck looking for customers. Many are drug addicts and many are too old and ugly to make their living any other way.
Two teenage girls are heading north, supposedly to visit their father, but the eldest instead turns off their route toward Helena, Montana to check on her boyfriend because he is apparently not so stuck on her anymore. Her sister doesn't want to do this, but has to go along. Then they and their car vanish.
I can't tell you anymore without spoilers but this plot will have you on the edge of your seat. As for characters, I thought the bad guys were better portrayed than the good guys, but then a lot of the action is theirs and Box concentrated on describing them and their methods.
C. J. Box is an excellent writer whose plots are elegantly constructed for maximum page-turning effect.
Recommended reading.
Source: Amazon Vine
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That sounds like a page turner for sure. I have a feeling I'd have a lot to say if I read that book!
ReplyDeleteC.J Box is a terrific writer. I've enjoyed several of his stories via audio books in the past.
ReplyDeleteI'm ready to read another C.J. Box story but I don't know about this one. This kind of thing gives me nightmares. I'll read more of Joe Pickett.
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