Blue Avenue
By Michael Wiley 
(Severn House)


Jacksonville, Florida, author Michael Wiley takes a measured walk on the dark side in his intriguing thriller “Blue Avenue” that channels classic noir author James M. Cain and the Coen Brothers’ debut film, “Blood Simple.”

While Wiley’s fourth novel launches his new series about Jacksonville police detective Daniel Turner, “Blue Avenue” belongs to shady businessman William “BB” Byrd, whose obsessions drive the plot. Turner’s role as more of an observer allows Wiley to explore an edgy plot in which motives often are undiscernible and few people are as they seem to be.

BB is determined to find out who murdered Belinda Mabry, who was his first lover more than 25 years ago. Racial and social pressures pulled apart the young couple and shortly after they broke up, Belinda, who was African-American, and her family moved away. BB and his enigmatic and brutal sidekick, Charles, prowl Jacksonville’s sleaziest areas, uncovering nasty secrets about the area’s politicians and leaders. BB’s determination to find Belinda’s murderer threatens to break apart his already fragile family and forces him to look at some unpleasant truths about his life.

Meanwhile, Turner’s investigation sometimes conflicts with BB’s interests.

While “Blue Avenue” is subtitled “A Daniel Turner Mystery,” the detective is practically a minor character, allowing Wiley a different view in exploring the characters.

Wiley’s expert twists conclude with a finale that would make Cain and the Coens proud. (TNS)