Many journalists secretly aspire to write a non-fiction Best Selling novel and Peter Bryant too dreamed of writing the next, "In Cold Blood". So he investigates the mysterious murders of William and Cindy Wise, in the town of his Alma Mater. He learns what the tragic consequences are for multi-generational child abuse, substance abuse, dysfunctional families and untreated mental illness. Ghosts from Peter's past return and he finds he may have intimate ties to the victims. The outlook for a quick and straightforward wrap-up are dashed when he unearths bizarre and powerful influences, to include suicide, the shooting still exerts throughout two communities. Further complications arise after Peter unexpectedly falls in love with a key witness. Not only does this impede his research he must confront his own personal relationship demons. He feels trapped by the case extending beyond completion of his book and nagging questions remain even after it becomes a Best Seller. So for months he continues reviewing his tapes and stacks of notes. He began understanding why the case was open after nine months, even though he believed the answer was available.
About the Author: AUTHOR'S BIOGRAPHY J.M. Herriott retired from the United States Air Force in 1992; he attended the United States Military Academy at West point, NY. Following retirement he taught high school mathematics, science, and psychology. For several years he was a Private Practice Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Hypnotherapist. J.M. has a BS in Mathematics from Arkansas State University (ASU) in Jonesboro, AR; a MA in Counseling from Rider University (RU) in Lawrenceville, NJ; Certified Hypnotherapist Training in Silver Springs, MD; completed course work and research for a PhD in Adult and Continuing Education from the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in Hattiesburg, MS; and post graduate classes in Psycho-Educational Diagnosis from ASU. He has developed and presented several educational, self-help workshops, and seminars. In addition he has written educational, training, self-help manuals and booklets. J.M. grew up on a small family farm in Arkansas. He and his wife, Sue, currently make their home in Northeast Arkansas where he spends most of his time reading, writing, and working in his vegetable garden. They have three daughters, one granddaughter, three grandsons, and one great grandson.