At first, in the weak light, he thought he saw the body. But the drawer was empty!

The author, a computer science professor diagnosed with terminal cancer, explores his life, the lessons that he has learned, how he has worked to achieve his childhood dreams, and the effect of his diagnosis on him and his family.

"There could not be a fitter time or place for the publication of this great prison novel than today's United States." --H. Bruce Franklin, The Nation

Edgar- and Agatha-nominated author Colleen Barnett here updates her essential reference for readers and writers of mystery, examining women who detect, women as sleuths, and the evolving roles of women in professions and in society.

"A terrifically exciting novel. Plenty of steam and excitement to delight both men and women readers. You won't be able to put it down." -Bill Eichenberger, Book Editor, Columbus Dispatch Yesterday's Shadow is an intriguing tale of calculated betrayal and deceptions that unfolds with unexpected twists. Ian McBride and his attorney friend encounter a pair of attractive women in Charleston and plan romance on beautiful Hilton Head Island. But are any of the four who they appear to be? The designing women each have a private agenda. They clash with each other as well as the men-a four-way personality tangle ensues and male-female chemistry ignites. But, the island paradise mood is soon torn by a deadly kidnapping and extortion plot. Intrigue and tensions spike-the criminal conspiracy must be stopped. However, one mistake could cost the lives of Ian and those close to him. "You'll almost hear the surf and feel the sand between your toes as you're sucked into this engaging novel. The author's FBI Agent expertise adds authenticity. Enjoyable, well-drawn characters make you feel involved." -Vicky Hunnings, Author of The Bride Wore Blood and Turn of Fortune "Ray McElhaney has created a delicately balanced thriller that bridges two genres with the deft of an engineer. A fast-paced, genuinely satisfying read." -Steven Gladis, Ph.D., Associate Dean, University of Virginia

Tomorrow's a new beginning… When a digitally aged photo of a girl named Hope Lawson is posted online, Bailey Smith can't deny the similarity to herself. But could she really be the same woman who was abducted as a child twenty-three years ago? When she meets Detective Seth Chandler, who opened the cold case of Hope's disappearance, suddenly everything changes. Not only does Bailey have a family she barely remembers—and a sister she's never met—she's connecting with a man for the first time. A man who's loving and gentle. But Bailey's not sure she's ready to be found: by him or the parents she once lost.