Standing On the Edge — Christopher Smith

Investigative reporter Russell Riley has been itching for his first break through story. He doesn't have to search long as he soon finds out a hospital in his hometown, one that he has personal ties to, could be closing its doors for good. Russell makes his way back to Lebanon, Kansas, to find out the meaning behind the shutdown and hopefully get his first story. What starts out as a research assignment, turns into a rescue mission for Russell as he makes connections with six patients in the behavioral health unit of the hospital. One day while digging around, he finds a collection of records with his grandmother's name written on the side, but the head nurse in charge catches him and brings him to Dr. Lucius Dan, the psychiatrist running the program. The doctor takes Russell against his will into the program. Can Russell save the patients from the clutches of Dr. Dan, or will he fall into insanity himself? This is a story about our deepest temptations, mental illness, and staying true north on a moral compass. Standing On the Edge is a psychological thriller meant to bring out the readers own temptations and fears.