Into the Fire

James Scott Bell has written one of his heartbreaking, gut-wrenching suspense novels with some shocking twists you won't see coming. Dylan Reeve, chiropractor to a few celebrity sports stars in Los Angeles, namely a sympathetic LA Laker who calls him MM for Miracle Man, has received a note written in crayon stating "Your son is alive". He and his ex-wife Erin didn't survive the kidnapping of their 5 yr. old son 15 years ago, who was never found, when their grief overwhelmed their life together. Both remain close with a mutual love simmering beneath the surface of their existence, but they're trying to move on with their lives in slow motion.  

When Dylan's LA Laker client offers to fund a security system for Dylan with his super tech/security guy, Dylan finds out just how valuable high-tech security and protection can be. He receives a second note, informs Erin of what's going on, and suddenly strange things begin to happen in her life. The possibility that their son could still be alive recreates their agony and makes them vulnerable to unreasonable demands. 

James Scott Bell can do deep heartbreak and broken characters with a flourish, authentically, and make you hurt with them. He does evil with a wicked flair and creates a real repulsion to his villains. Your Son Is Alive captures the utter desolation of a beautiful family torn apart by the kidnapping of their little boy and the experience of having to relive the memories of their excruciating loss when the taunting notes force them to consider the possibility of him still being alive.  

This story hurts, you feel the darkness, the ache, but it's so well-written showing the strengths and weaknesses of its primary characters. You'll wonder how or if there's any way this can turn out well, and you'll stay with it for as long as it takes to find out. In spite of the pain, this is a quick read if for no other reason, you're compelled to learn if the title statement is true. Jim is truly an amazing author of noir novels and the depiction of deep down, full on pain. 

Father, you've given Jim such incredible talent. I pray you would continue to fill him with your inspiration and continue to bless his writing life. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.