While the first half of the novel is a study of an unpleasant character, Coles creates a page-turner in the second half of the book. The dialogue is honest and raw, and Coles’ writing gives resonance to each encounter. Coles crafts McDowell in such a manner that readers end up rooting for a character who was initially fairly loathsome. A thrilling story of redemption, McDowell succeeds with sharp writing, a great story and well-crafted characters.