Beating the Bushes

Vincent Lloyd’s six-year old daughter disappeared a few years before the story begins. He was the prime suspect and was dogged by the media. Fifteen year old Stevie Kracher disappears in Missouri, and Vincent goes to help in the search. He views his involvement in the search as reparation for his own failure to protect his daughter.

Kimmswick, Missouri is a small town where everyone knows everyone else but the original sympathy soon turns to insinuation and accusation. Vincent  Lloyd is eventually accepted by the other volunteers and Baylor Kracher’s friends, but hard-hearted TV reporter Laura Ann Bonetti recognises Vincent.  She turns the spotlight on him before turning her attention to Stevie’s father, Baylor. The search for Stevie is unsuccessful, regardless, Baylor is sure his son is still alive [he never wavers in this belief]. Vincent and Baylor begin a friendship that grows between the two men and lasts for years, eventually leading to a search that won't end until the truth about Stevie's disappearance is uncovered.

It is difficult to say much more about the story without spoiling the clever twists and turns.