Brindle, Oregon, is a dying town not far from Bend. Despite the diminishing population, Ruth Ann Colonna, publisher of the local newspaper, the Brindle Times, wants to preserve local history. She is preparing a special edition for the town's centennial but needs help with the new computer system that she has installed. Todd Fielding, a young woman with the necessary skills, accepts a job at the paper despite the potential for boredom. She quickly learns that this will not be a problem. A young girl disappears, but no one seems concerned. As she helps Ruth Ann sort through archival materials, Todd discovers that five other girls have disappeared over the past 20 years. The town has dark secrets that have caused great suffering. Uncovering the history puts Todd in great danger. Combining oppressive isolation and creepy characters, genre veteran Wilhelm creates a genuinely eerie atmosphere that pulls readers in and keeps them turning the pages. --Barbara Bibel Copyright 2005 Booklist