This Empty World

A STORY OF LOVE, LOSS, CRUELTY AND CRIME

In 1993, Wendy, a single mother working in a New Jersey bar, is devastated when her three‑year‑old daughter, Emma, is struck and killed by a speeding armored truck.

The driver had been drinking, but the corporation—helped by corrupt police and a callous system—buries the truth, shifting blame to Wendy and painting her as a negligent parent.

Her legal action fails. Ruined by mounting debt, Wendy loses her job, her house, and, as the world turns its back on her, she loses hope while standing at Emma's grave. That's when Wendy is rescued at the last moment by Roy, the only crew member who tried to save Emma. And, the only one among the truck's crew fired for refusing to lie, then threatened into silence.

Bound by grief and anger, Roy and Wendy forge a plan to avenge Emma's death—a meticulously crafted, near‑perfect plan.

"A thriller with no speed limit! It's a great read!" -Michael Connelly, #1 New York Times bestselling author on Vengeance Road

"Rick Mofina's books are edge-of-your seat thrilling. Page turners that don't let up." -Louise Penny, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"The shadow of James M. Cain hangs over every page." - Daily Mail, London on The Dying Hour

"One of the best thriller writers in the business." – Library Journal