Gr 9 Up —Warren Bullock is haunted by a voice telling him to do horrible, unspeakable things to anyone and everyone. Growing up on the frontier of Missouri in the l870s, Warren has seen a lot of difficult things, but life really takes a turn when his father, who set out on a trip across the nearby border of Kansas to find a family friend who had gone missing, never returns. Determined to discover the truth about his father's disappearance, Warren quickly silences his inner voice as he inadvertently stumbles upon a family of serial killers, the Bloody Benders. Staying in their house but unaware of their true nature, Warren finds a family that is stranger than even his inner voice could imagine. From the parents, to the son John whose laughter can be heard for miles, to the enchanting and clairvoyant Kate who may just be attracted to Warren, the Bender family will surely come for Warren if he's not careful. After discovering their true nature and the extent of their crimes, Warren sets out on a quest to bring the family to justice before they disappear forever. Based on the true story of the Bloody Benders who were ultimately never caught or brought to justice for their crimes, this historical thriller offers teens a true glimpse of life on the frontier 150 years ago as Moore expertly integrates his research. VERDICT Teens will appreciate the attention to detail and will relate to the inner turmoil that Warren feels about his direction in life. A recommended purchase.—Samuel Lovejoy