Dry Heat A David Mapstone Mystery

Dry Heat A David Mapstone Mystery by Jon Talton is a compelling addition to the mystery genre, published by Poisoned Pen Press on May 27, 2011. This edition spans 216 pages and is presented in English. The narrative follows David Mapstone, a history professor turned Maricopa County deputy sheriff, as he investigates the unsolved murder of an FBI agent, whose missing badge is discovered on a deceased transient. The case becomes increasingly complex due to Mapstone’s forced collaboration with rival cold-case expert Sgt. Kate Vare and the FBI’s reluctance to share information.

Readers will find a rich tapestry of intrigue as Mapstone navigates both historical and contemporary crimes, including a significant fraud case involving Russian mafia members. The plot thickens when his wife, Lindsey, a key player in the cybercrimes investigation, becomes embroiled in danger following a hit that claims the lives of several task-force members. As the couple is placed in a safe house by Sheriff Peralta, Mapstone is tasked with solving the cold case while ensuring their survival. The story unfolds across various locations, including Phoenix and San Francisco, revealing the dark secrets tied to the FBI badge and the challenges of bringing justice to a decades-old crime.