Faustus Resurrectus

After an intriguing start that will remind supernatural thriller fans of the work of Preston & Child, this debut loses its way. Donovan Graham has just written his thesis on “the Faustus Legend” and received his master’s degree in philosophical hermeneutics, and is enjoying a serious relationship with Brooklyn ADA Joann Clery. Clery’s under pressure to wrap up her investigation of a riot at a homeless shelter that left 12 people dead, but she’s certain the ringleader is still at large. Unexpectedly, Graham gets involved in law enforcement as well when he’s asked to assist the NYPD as a consultant; a man has been killed by scorpions in a midtown hotel room, and the investigators need help understanding the symbolic significance of the creatures. Soon the plot devolves into yet another desperate race to avert the end of days, while transforming the capable Clery into little more than a damsel in distress. (Apr.)