Dark Ride

 Dark Ride by Lou Berney (2023), 256 pages

Hardley is an early 20-something stoner floating through life as a "scarer" in a haunted-themed amusement park. He is likeable in that there is really no reason not to like him way. While paying a ticket at the local court house, he comes across two children that are in obvious need of help. He calls and visits Children's Protective Services, but they are overwhelmed and of little help. This is when he realizes his purpose in life: he WILL save these two kids. Of course, there is a lot more back story, but it is heartening to see a person who is drifting realize his potential. 

Previous summaries regard this novel as an intense thriller. I would call it a Janet Evanovich "Stephanie Plum" level of thriller. There are likeable characters, funny side quests, but still enough plot and heft to make it worth reading. That is until the end. Then it went off the rails into unbelievable land
and had me questioning why?!?! If you have read this book, please let me know your thoughts as I am still shaking my head.