Boomtown

In the boomtown of Baxter, police captain Delia Mariola is struggling to drive predatory drug dealers and criminals out before the owners of the new Nissan plant lose faith. A young sex worker's body turns up, and Delia investigates the murder relentlessly, facing off against a vigilante movement that could put her job on the line.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the bustling streets of the booming boomtown, the rule of law holds no sway. Police captain Delia Mariola is desperately striving to expel predatory drug dealers from the American rust belt town of Baxter, before the owners of the new Nissan plant lose faith in the project. The influx of male workers for the plant has also brought about an influx of criminals, exacerbating the situation. In the workers' settlement just outside the city limits, a modern Wild West boomtown has emerged, attracting criminal gangs who promise drugs and female companionship to men far from home seeking solace and distraction. With no active policing in the unregulated settlement, the criminals are engaged in a fierce battle to seize control of the drug trade. Against this tumultuous backdrop, the body of a young sex worker turns up on the streets of Baxter itself. Delia embarks on a relentless investigation to bring justice to the criminal enterprises plaguing her streets. However, she is not the only one hunting for the killer, and when strangers arrive seeking their own form of justice for the murdered girl, Delia risks facing off against a vigilante movement that could jeopardize her job.

Boomtown, the captivating new thriller from acclaimed US author A.F. Carter, serves as a thrilling sequel to The Hostage. The novel delves deep into the intricate web of crime, corruption, and revenge, showcasing Carter's exceptional storytelling skills and intricate plot development.

Set in the bustling boomtown of Baxter, the story revolves around Delia Mariola, a determined police captain who is tasked with eradicating drug dealers and maintaining law and order. However, her mission becomes increasingly challenging as the town's landscape is transformed by the influx of male workers for the new Nissan plant. The arrival of these workers brings not only economic prosperity but also a surge in criminal activity.

The workers' settlement, located just outside the city limits, becomes a breeding ground for criminal gangs who exploit the lack of policing and regulation. The settlement is a lawless haven, where drugs, violence, and prostitution thrive. The criminals engage in fierce battles to control the drug trade, often resorting to extreme measures to protect their interests.

Amid this chaotic backdrop, the body of a young sex worker turns up on the streets of Baxter. Delia is determined to investigate the murder relentlessly, driven by her unwavering commitment to bring justice to the criminal enterprises plaguing her streets. However, she soon realizes that she is not alone in her pursuit of the killer. Strangers, who have their own agendas and motivations, also arrive in town, seeking their form of justice for the murdered girl.

As Delia delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that extends far beyond the boundaries of the boomtown. She encounters powerful figures who are willing to do anything to protect their interests, including resorting to violence and intimidation. Delia must navigate through a treacherous landscape, where her every move could be a threat to her safety and career.

Boomtown is a masterfully crafted thriller that blends elements of crime, mystery, and suspense. Carter's writing is vivid and evocative, transporting readers to the heart of the bustling boomtown and immersing them in its complex and morally ambiguous world. The characters are well-developed, with each possessing their own motivations and flaws, making them relatable and compelling.

The novel also explores themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of unchecked greed. The owners of the Nissan plant, driven by their desire for profits and success, turn a blind eye to the criminal activities taking place in the workers' settlement. They are willing to overlook the lawlessness and violence that permeate the settlement in exchange for the economic benefits it brings.

In contrast, Delia Mariola is a symbol of integrity and justice. She is determined to uphold the law and protect the people of Baxter, even when faced with powerful adversaries and impossible odds. Her unwavering commitment to her job and her moral compass make her a formidable opponent in the fight against crime.

Boomtown is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. It is a testament to Carter's talent as a storyteller and his ability to create complex and compelling characters in a world that is often dark and morally ambiguous. Whether you are a fan of crime fiction or simply seeking a compelling and engaging story, Boomtown is a must-read that will leave you pondering its themes long after you have finished the last page.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035904471