Book Review: "Bitterfrost" by Bryan Gruley

I love it when the setting of a book plays a role in the plot. It’s especially great when the author gives such an effective sense of place that you feel as if you’re there. In his newest book, Bryan Gruley does just that. I felt the frigid winds, cold temperatures, and pelting snow as the story unfolded.

Jimmy was once an ice hockey player, but when he nearly killed an opponent, he quit playing. Now, 13 years later, he lives in his hometown of Bitterfrost, Michigan, where he operates the Zamboni for the local arena.

One night after closing up the arena, he goes to the local bar for a drink. Before he heads home, two out-of-towners create a stir, and Jimmy exchanged words with them. Once he knew the bartender had it under control, he left.

And then the next morning, Jimmy wakes up with his head pounding, a black eye, and his hands are bruised. He also smells blood—and discovers it in his car, all over his jacket, everywhere. But he has no memory of what could have happened. Did he get into an accident? Was there an argument he has forgotten?

It’s not long before Jimmy gets arrested for a double murder. As the evidence stacks up against him, he desperately tries to remember what happened that night. While his friend Devyn, who becomes his defense attorney, tries to protect Jimmy and hopefully uncover the truth, Jimmy struggles with memories of the incident 13 years before. Could he have taken two lives?

I have really enjoyed Gruley’s previous books, and I’m really excited that this is the start of a new series. This is the kind of mystery I like, full of characters I became attached to and a case that kept me thinking. I can’t wait to return to Bitterfrost when book #2 is released!