The Edge of Night

Police officer Noah Young handles gang-related crime in Chula Vista, Calif. (just across the border from Tijuana), and dreams of being a homicide investigator. His chance comes with the rape and murder of a young cocktail waitress. Noah knows he shouldn't get involved with someone associated with the case, but he falls hard for April Ortiz, a single mom who worked with the victim. Carnal scenes that wouldn't be out of place in Penthouse Forum litter the pages as the chase harkens back to an eight-year-old cold case and draws in Noah's naïve sister. Sorenson paints the graffiti-lined streets and the gang scene with broad strokes, and makes her characters realistic, flawed, and appealing. Deftly handled violent action and red herrings rush this thriller to a believable ending. (Apr.)