Into the Fire

Author L. T. Ryan creates another anti-hero with his police detective Mitch Tanner in The Depth of Darkness. The hard-boiled and testy cop has a few soft spots, the main one being his 6 year old daughter Ella Kate. Having been abandoned by his wife, who took their son Robbie with her one afternoon and disappeared, he juggles fatherhood with homicide investigations.

Mitch has been in a relationship with an elementary school teacher for about four months. Ella likes her, and Mitch begins to think maybe there's something for them in the future. However, when a murder suspect attempts to commit suicide high up on an old water tower and then escapes, when there is a chaotic and potentially tragic event at the elementary school, when the homicide winds up connected to the school event, and when the FBI is called in, Mitch reacts to a cocky young detective's derisive comment and gets himself suspended without pay.

Mitch's partner Sam faithfully reports what little information he can gather since he's been taken off the case but not suspended. Behind the scenes the two of them and the female lead investigator from the FBI (Bridget) connect dots Mitch never wanted to put together.

The Depth of Darkness weaves its way through different points of view capturing the heartbreak, tension, and courage of the victims and those pursuing the suspects. It takes a few unusual turns with one particular character by the name of Cassie who ultimately helps Mitch remember critical information and Bridget who initiates the final actions to trap a suspect.

L. T. Ryan provides an entertaining story with a few odd moments. Detective Mitch Tanner and his partner Detective Sam Foster give us a few laughs along the way but never fail to prove their loyalty to one another and their determination to find the perpetrators of the horrible crimes. With a satisfactory and hopeful ending, The Depth of Darkness is an enjoyable read for crime drama fans.  

Father, thank you for the multi-talents of writers. Please continue to give stories to Lee and help him to realize the ultimate source of inspiration. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.