The Heart's Truth — David Murphy

In this second book of the Zelena Willis Trilogy, Rick Houck is the main character featured. Once again, he and Zelena and Garrett become unwillingly involved in a dark criminal conspiracy. This time, the conspiracy is more deadly than anything they have faced. For his part, Rick has determined to stay away from run-in's with murky plots and cynical characters and amoral organizations. Yet here he is, thrown into just such a world once again. The action in this second volume becomes very physical, which the reader may juxtapose against the value-driven inner struggles of Rick. The wrenching conflict plays out in unexpected loyalties as well as betrayals. In the end, Rick has to fight a desparate struggle against a sociopath on the bad guy's turf and using his choice of weapons and tactics. The result is a book that you will not want to put down.