Killer Summer    by Ridley Pearson Order:  USA  Can Putnam, 2009 (2009) Hardcover, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Ridley Pearson has to pull out quite a few irons that he tosses into the fire in Killer Summer. By the end of this gripping story, you realize he has accomplished just that – he's tied up all the loose ends in a neat little bow. He takes readers to Sun Valley, Idaho, where the rich go to rest up and outdo each other with shows of their very visible wealth. When one of them realizes he's on the skids, he takes drastic measures to correct his downfall and to keep his teenage daughter in the manner he thinks she deserves. Teddy Sumner and his daughter Summer (that's right – Summer Sumner!) travel to Sun Valley to attend a high-end wine auction. Three bottles are being touted as having belonged to John Adams, given to him by Thomas Jefferson. Sure to bring a fantastic price, if real. Seems to be some question about that. On arrival in their private Lear Jet, the Sumners part company – Daddy heads to the wine auction and Summer chooses to make a new friend so he can help her escape the boring weekend. As she shows him (Blaine County Sheriff Walt Fleming's nephew Kevin) the jet, they are interrupted by three not-so-very nice men. The plot picks up even more speed around here and it's hard to remember to keep breathing while flipping the pages to keep up with the action and great dialogue - a master at work here. The author, along with coming up with a gripping story, seems to know people's dreams and desires as well as their peccadilloes. His characters are right on the money and any of them could be your good friend. He is especially attuned to teenagers. Killer Summer is a recommended read. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews