The Killing Plains marks Sherry Rankin’s compelling debut in the crime thriller genre. Set against the stark backdrop of West Texas, this meticulously crafted novel blends elements of psychological suspense, family drama, and small-town intrigue into a gripping narrative that keeps readers guessing until the final pages.
Plot & Setting Summary
The story unfolds in Crescent Bluff, a close-knit Texas town where everyone knows everyone—and their secrets. When thirteen-year-old Denny Knox is found murdered with a bizarre token—a rabbit’s face—placed on his body, the evidence seems to point to Willis Newland, recently released from prison after serving twenty years for an eerily similar crime. But former Houston detective Colly Newland, Willis’s sister-in-law, begins to suspect that the truth is far more complex than it appears.
Strengths & Literary Merit
Character Development
Rankin excels at crafting multidimensional characters whose motivations and psychological complexities drive the narrative. Protagonist Colly Newland emerges as a particularly well-drawn character—a grieving widow and grandmother struggling with past trauma while navigating the treacherous waters of family loyalty and professional duty. The supporting cast is equally compelling, from the troubled Avery Parker to the enigmatic Dr. Niall Shaw.
Atmospheric Writing
The author demonstrates remarkable skill in establishing atmosphere. Her descriptions of the West Texas landscape are vivid and evocative:
“The sun was slipping behind the distant mesas as they pulled onto the gravel drive in front of the house.”
“Passing the track that led to the stock pond, they continued northeast on a paved lane that rambled through the scrubland for several miles.”
Plot Construction
The novel’s intricate plot architecture deserves special praise. Rankin masterfully weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives, dropping carefully placed clues that become significant only in retrospect. The parallel investigations of two murders separated by twenty years create a rich tapestry of interconnected mysteries.
Areas for Improvement
Pacing Issues
While generally well-paced, the novel occasionally gets bogged down in detailed explanations of local politics and family histories. Some readers might find these sections slow, particularly in the middle chapters.
Character Overload
The large cast of characters, while richly developed, can be overwhelming to keep track of, especially in the early chapters. A character list might have been helpful for readers.
Plot Complexity
While the intricate plotting is generally a strength, certain plot threads—particularly those involving the turbine plant and embezzlement—feel slightly underdeveloped compared to the main mystery.
Themes & Deeper Analysis
Family Dynamics
At its heart, The Killing Plains is an exploration of family loyalty and the weight of generational secrets. The Newland family’s complex relationships and hidden motivations drive much of the narrative tension.
Small Town Secrets
Rankin expertly portrays how secrets fester in small communities, where everyone is connected and the past never truly stays buried. The novel demonstrates how such secrets can poison relationships and lead to tragic consequences.
Justice and Morality
The book raises interesting questions about justice, revenge, and moral ambiguity. Characters often find themselves in situations where right and wrong aren’t clearly defined, leading to compelling ethical dilemmas.
Technical Elements
Writing Style
Rankin’s prose is clean and efficient, with moments of striking beauty in her descriptive passages. Her background in creative writing shows in her careful attention to language and pacing.
Structure
The novel employs a traditional mystery structure but enriches it with psychological elements and family drama. The parallel timelines are handled skillfully, though some transitions between past and present could be smoother.
Dialogue
The dialogue is natural and revealing, effectively distinguishing characters while advancing the plot. Regional dialects are handled with subtlety rather than stereotype.
Target Audience
This book will appeal to readers who enjoy:
- Complex psychological thrillers
- Family dramas with mystery elements
- Small-town noir
- Character-driven suspense
- Stories with strong regional settings
Impact and Resonance
The Killing Plains stands out for its psychological depth and its exploration of how trauma echoes through generations. The book’s examination of family loyalty, redemption, and the price of secrets resonates long after the final page.
Pros:
- Complex, well-developed characters
- Masterful plotting
- Rich atmospheric detail
- Strong psychological elements
- Satisfying resolution
Cons:
- Occasionally overwhelming cast of characters
- Some pacing issues
- Certain subplots could be better developed
Comparable Works
Readers who enjoy The Killing Plains might also appreciate:
- Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
- The Dry by Jane Harper
- The Missing Place by Sophie Littlefield
Final Verdict
Despite minor flaws, The Killing Plains is an impressive debut that announces Rankin as a promising voice in psychological suspense. Her skill in weaving complex family dynamics with classic mystery elements creates a compelling and memorable reading experience. While some aspects could be tightened, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a recommended read for fans of sophisticated crime fiction.
Author Background & Future Prospects
As a creative writing instructor with a background in literature, Rankin brings both technical skill and psychological insight to her work. Her previous recognition in the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger Award and the Margery Allingham Short Mystery Competition suggests a bright future in the genre. Readers will likely anticipate her next work with keen interest.
This debut novel positions Rankin as an author to watch in the psychological thriller genre, particularly for readers who appreciate complex character studies wrapped in compelling mysteries.