Don't Open the Door

Book excerpt: Nikki Morino, age fifteen, is found dead in her foyer. The crime scene is quite clean, but evidence points to murder. Jared Davis, a nineteen-year-old Down syndrome and mentally challenged neighbor, is the prime suspect. Until the forensic report comes back, the Akron Police Department hesitates to make an arrest. Neighbors are fearful for their safety, and as prejudice escalates, so does the victimization of the Davises. Doug Conrad and his investigative team are hired to solve the case. Meanwhile, two CT prison escapees target Donna Gifford, a Conrad investigator, putting her life in danger. It is doubtful whether help will reach her in time. Conrad’s life is in upheaval once again.