Mercy River: A Thriller

Helping a fellow veteran accused of murder, former Army Ranger, Van Shaw is drawn into a dangerous labyrinth involving smuggled opioids, ruthless mercenaries, and deadly family secrets that will challenge his notions of brotherhood and justice in this "excellently plotted" (Library Journal) thriller from Anthony, Macavity and Strand Critics Award-winning author Glen Erik Hamilton.

“A terrific thriller, deftly plotted and sharply written. Glen Erik Hamilton is a genuine talent.” 

—T. JEFFERSON PARKER, New York Times bestselling author of Swift Vengeance

When his friend Leo Pak is arrested on suspicion of murder and armed robbery, Van Shaw journeys to the remote Oregon town of Mercy River to help his fellow Ranger. Van learns that his troubled friend had planned to join a raucous three-day party that’s attended by hundreds of former and active Rangers. The event is the central celebration of a growing support network called the Rally. But he soon discovers there’s much more going on in Mercy River.

The murder victim—the owner of a local gun shop where Leo worked part time—was dealing in stolen heroin-grade opiates. Worse, the town has a dark history that includes white supremacists who are threatening to turn Mercy River into their private enclave. The cops have damning evidence linking Leo to the murder, and Van knows that backwaters like Mercy River are notorious for protecting their own. His quest to clear Leo’s name will stir up old grudges and dark secrets beneath the surface of this fearful small town, pit his criminal instincts against his loyalties to his brothers-in-arms, and force him to question his own belief in putting justice above the letter of the law.

“The superbly talented Hamilton creates a tough and wonderfully complex hero—and a rivetingly taut story.  Edgy, compelling, and gritty, this action-packed page-turner resonates with authenticity.”

 —HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN, nationally bestselling author of Trust Me

“Put Mercy River in the So Damn Good column. The story crackles, the writing soars, and the characters leap alive off the page. I couldn’t put it down.”   - Meg Gardiner, Edgar Award–winning author of Into the Black Nowhere

“As much fun to read as Lee Child’s Jack Reacher.” - J. A. Jance

“Glen Erik Hamilton can flat-out write with the best of the best.” - Robert Dugoni, New York Times bestselling author

Praise for Mercy River: “The superbly talented Hamilton creates a tough and wonderfully complex hero—and a rivetingly taut story. Edgy, compelling, and gritty, this action-packed page-turner resonates with authenticity.” - Hank Phillippi Ryan, nationally bestselling author of Trust Me

Praise for Glen Erik Hamilton: “This guy has got what it takes.” - Lee Child