Emerson's fast-moving novels about Seattle PI Thomas Black are a smart mixture of very witty banter and very dark subject matter. The mix continues here, weighed a bit toward the latter, with Black investigating a particularly vicious 17-year-old Manson-like multiple murder. His client is a wealthy, seemingly well intentioned woman whom he initially describes as "Mother Teresa with a bankroll." A blackmailer has unearthed her involvement in the Deception Pass slayings. Black's problem: Was she a helpless witness or did she commit the crimes? One of the best of the year.

-Dick Lochte