An Unsettling Crime for Samuel Craddock by Terry Shames is the sixth book in the “Samuel Craddock” mystery series. Publisher: Seventh Street Books, January 3, 2017

When the Jarrett Creek Fire Department is called to douse a blaze on the outskirts of town, they discover a grisly scene: five black young people have been murdered. Newly elected Chief of Police Samuel Craddock, just back from a stint in the Air Force, finds himself an outsider in the investigation headed by the Texas Highway Patrol. He takes an immediate dislike to John Sutherland, a racist trooper

Craddock s fears are realized when Sutherland arrests Truly Bennett, a young black man whom Craddock knows and respects. Sutherland cites dubious evidence that points to Bennett, and Craddock uncovers facts leading in another direction. When Sutherland refuses to relent, Craddock is faced with a choice that will define him as a lawman either let the highway patrol have its way, or take on a separate investigation himself.

Although his choice to investigate puts both Craddock and his family in danger, he perseveres. In the process, he learns something about himself and the limits of law enforcement in Jarrett Creek.”

This engaging and intensifying drama shares a chapter in the life of Samuel Craddock’s growth as a police chief when he is confronted with racism as he begins his career. The author did a wonderful job in executing this well-written story that quickly became a page turner. The narrative was deeply rooted in the various investigations which led to some great scenes with the strong-willed and determined young police chief that kept me riveted to all that was happening and at times I felt like I was in the middle of all the action. Terry did a great job of telling a story that needed to be told which gave me a better understanding of Samuel and is reflective of today’s times. This was a very good book.

FTC Full Disclosure – I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher.