It's Father's Day weekend—a tough time for Charlie D, host of a late-night radio call-in show that offers supportive advice to troubled listeners.

For years Charlie has been alienated from his father—a retired politician who was always too busy for his son when Charlie was growing up. The trouble is, his dad has chosen this weekend to attempt to reconcile with his son. Charlie is not keen to forgive. But Charlie's personal issues suddenly seem mundane when an email arrives from a young listener that outlines his very specific plans to kill not just his father but his entire family. The deeply troubled boy could be anywhere, and Charlie has just two hours to discover his identity and stop him from murder.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for older teen readers and adults who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!

Gail Bowen’s bestselling mystery series featuring Joanne Kilbourn will number an even dozen titles with the publication of The Nesting Dolls in August 2010. The first six books in the series have appeared as made-for-television movies with world-wide distribution. Winner of both the Arthur Ellis Best Novel Award and the Derrick Murdoch Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Crime Writers of Canada, in 2008 Bowen was named ’Canada’s Best Mystery Novelist’ by Reader’s Digest. She was selected as oneof "The 100 Most Popular Contemporary Mystery Authors" for an upcoming Library Unlimited reference book.

Gail Bowen's profile page

"A quick read for those who like mysteries, but do not have the time to read something longer...This is a good book for middle or junior high school readers seeking a pleasure read that is quick and easy."

VOYA

"Packs a lot of action into a mere 87 pages. The Rapid Reads line of books is perfect for the adult on the go who desires an intriguing read that can be devoured in one setting."

Southwestern Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group

"[A] compelling reading experience....Romance, suspense, witty dialogue, and swiftly-drawn but completely believable characters make this a book which offers something for everyone. Fans of Bowen's other "Rapid Read" novels will not be disappointed, and those who haven't yet experienced her work can start with this one. The Shadow Killer is a book which will appeal both to adult readers and to reluctant senior high school students. The exploration of the father-son dynamic will resonate with readers of both genders, and the swift-moving plot will keep readers engaged, regardless of their reading skill level."

CM Magazine