Dead by Nightfall
By Beverly Barton

Zebra
2011 / ISBN: 9781420110364
Romantic suspense
Amazon

Reviewed by Bob Walch

Another in Beverly Barton’s long running series of romantic suspense yarns, this twisted tale introduces a sadistic madman named Malcolm York, who has used his considerable wealth to fund a number of depraved hunts which take the word “nightmare” to a new level.

Being one of his victims, Griff Powell knows exactly how sadistic York can be, but the private investigator also knows the depraved millionaire is dead because he killed him or at least he thought he did. Suddenly, York, or someone using the man’s name, is back, but why would anyone want to use the name of a deranged psychopath?

Now Griff’s wife, Nicole, has disappeared and it appears she has been taken by York or whoever is using his name. A new game is afoot which will wind down to a shattering conclusion in a wilderness preserve in Montana. Not only must he find and save his wife, but this time Griff is also going to make doubly sure his long time adversary is dead.

“Dead by Nightfall” wraps up Barton’s “Dead by” trilogy (“Dead by Midnight” and “Dead by Morning”) and now all the secrets surrounding the key characters are known. Obviously, if you read the first two stories you’ll love this one. Even if you haven’t, don’t let that stop you from picking up this one. You can always go back and read the first two.

Also, anyone familiar with “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell will find this a most interesting reworking of the same idea.