Last Night (The Searchers, 2)

Dive into the gripping world of NYPD Detective Lex Cole with "Last Night (The Searchers, 2)," the highly anticipated sequel to Karen Ellis's acclaimed "A Map of the Dark." This First Edition Hardcover, published by Mulholland Books in 2019, plunges you into a suspenseful mystery where the past refuses to stay buried, and a young man's future hangs precariously in the balance. In the heart of Brooklyn, Titus "Crisp" Crespo, a Black teenager raised by his white mother and Russian grandparents in Brighton Beach, grapples with the legacies left by his absent father, Mo. Crisp has always felt like an outsider, defined by his brown skin and unusual name. Yet, beneath the surface lies a fundamentally good kid, brimming with potential and a promising future. But one fateful, impulsive decision sets off a chain of events that threaten to unravel everything Crisp has worked for. A minor arrest leads him down a dangerous path, as he accompanies a wealthier, white friend to a weed dealer. This seemingly harmless detour thrusts Crisp into the unfamiliar territory of his father's old stomping grounds, forcing him to confront choices he's always tried to avoid. He finds himself navigating a world of shadows, secrets, and hidden dangers that could irrevocably alter the course of his life. Enter Detective Lex Cole, a compelling and determined protagonist who is tasked with piecing together the fragments of Crisp's chaotic night. As Lex delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of interconnected secrets that extend far beyond Crisp's immediate circumstances. The investigation reveals the complex relationship between the protagonist and his absent father. She begins to unravel the mystery behind the missing teenager and a dangerous figure. Ellis masterfully weaves together themes of identity, race, family secrets, and the haunting power of the past. The novel explores the challenges of growing up in a diverse urban landscape, the complexities of familial relationships, and the enduring impact of choices made long ago. As Lex and Crisp navigate the labyrinthine streets of Brooklyn, they discover that the secrets of the past can resurface in unexpected and devastating ways. "Last Night" is more than just a thrilling mystery; it's a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and evocative prose, Karen Ellis delivers a suspenseful and unforgettable reading experience. Fans of police procedurals, women sleuths, and suspenseful thrillers will be captivated by this gripping tale of redemption, and the enduring power of the truth. At 320 pages, and weighing in at 517 grams, prepare to be engrossed from the first page to the last, as Detective Lex Cole races against time to uncover the truth and save Crisp from the ghosts of his father's past.