The Fret Master by James Dobie

An almost-famous guitarist cuts a devilish deal that lands him at the center of a supernatural standoff in The Fret Master by James Dobie, an intense fourth chapter in the Wallowa Lake Thrillers series. Nearing rock bottom as a burnt-out musician, Mason Rivers is desperate enough to sell his actual soul for the perfect hands of a rock god. However, when the price of fame climbs too high, he flees cross country with his begrudging partner-in-damnation, April Flowers. A gritty Faustian reboot coupled with an existential battle of good and evil in Wallowa Lake, this is a dark but still relatable story of desperation and regret, buttressed by a command performance from a returning hero, Dr. Mia Chandler. Supernatural stakes, edgy supporting characters, and razor-sharp dialogue make this latest installment from Dobie a subversive and engrossing thrill.