Into the Inferno

Jim Swope is a nervous firefighter in the Earl Emerson's new novel "Into the Inferno." Swope works in Washington State's North Bend Fire and Rescue Company, and this group of paid and volunteer firefighters have run into some serious trouble. One by one, the North Bend firefighters have either become seriously ill or died in violent accidents. Are these events coincidental or is there something more insidious going on? Swope is terrified when he begins to experience the same symptoms as his fallen colleagues. With the help of Stephanie Riggs, the sister of one of the victims, Swope starts investigating the "North Bend Syndrome" and what he and Stephanie find out is shocking and horrifying. Earl Emerson sustains the reader's interest throughout this unusual novel. I loved the character of Jim Swope, an individual whose childhood traumas have left lasting scars, especially in his ability to relate to women. Jim is also a loving father and a courageous man who is willing to learn from his mistakes. I liked the character of Stephanie Riggs, as well. She is a tough and intelligent doctor who is dogged in her pursuit of the truth about the syndrome that has destroyed her sister. Emerson balances the book's humorous and serious aspects skillfully and he maintains a high level of excitement throughout the novel. I recommend "Into the Inferno." It works both as a thriller and as a quirky psychological study of a beleaguered man who is pushed to his limits.

This was my first Earl Emerson book. The local librarian recommended it, and I'm sure glad. This was an exciting, suspenseful page-turner; and I really didn't know whether I should laugh or cry as I read it. Jim Swope, a firefighter, is facing the fact that in 7 days he will probably be reduced to a vegetable in a nursing home. His sense of humor was awesome, and I laughed out loud many times. At the same time, there were some very tender moments, especially with his daughters, that made me so sad. It made me glad that I am a reader.

Earl Emerson is my favorite author. His newest endeavor is only his second stand-alone novel. The writing is crisp, funny and totally enthralling. The lead character is not your typical problem solver. He thinks of himself as a jerk (especially to women) and not very bright. It's actually quite refreshing. It's highly entertaining to read a novel wherein: the reader in captivated by the plot, entrigued by the characters, and can appreciate the fine points of the author's style. Emerson can have a character who was brought up in a religoius cult say that he thinks his parents concept of heaven sounds "boring as hell." This novel is never boring!

See book summary above.This is the first title I've read by Earl Emerson, and I am duly impressed. This is not so much about firefighters as it is about one mans race against time. A race to save his own life, as well as others. The suspense is here as is the character development. A first rate thriller.Highly recommended.