Ralph Wadkins is scared. Newly released from prison, he returns to his hometown of Creighton-but his past follows him in the form of prison bully Corey Daniels.

Convinced Daniels is stalking him, Wadkins shares his concerns with his brother-in-law. Two days later, Wadkins' fears seem to come true: he dies in a hit-and-run accident. No one witnesses the collision, but broken headlight glass places Daniels' car at the scene. More damning still, the suspect disappears...for reasons that seem obvious.

In the weeks after the accident, Daniels' uncle is assaulted. Daniels is identified as the assailant, and once again the ex-con cannot be found. The cowardly attack further solidifies the man's guilt in most people's minds.

Not everyone, however, is convinced of Daniels' guilt. His motives-if he is indeed guilty-remain unclear...and Chief of Police Matt Cahil doesn't like it. Something about the case just doesn't add up. Even Daniels' attorney is frustrated: he can't defend a client that can't be found.

A small town murder mystery, The Runaway Client breathlessly delves into the lives, loves, and sinister secrets of Creighton's flawed and heroic residents.