Matt Goldman's LIAR’S CREEK strikes us emotionally in ways that mystery novels rarely aim for or achieve. As a matter of fact, its genre may be accurately described as “family novel” or “unusual love story,” as well as “mystery.” The characters are, indeed, filled with love for each other. While they recognize each other's flaws, they're often able to overlook them because of their very touching and warm relationships.

The protagonist is Clay Hawkins, a man in his 30s who has lived through a most unusual set of adventures and experiences. He lost his mom, Pam, to cancer when he was 13, which has haunted him --- and his father, Judd --- for the rest of their lives. 

Although Clay and Judd share those powerful emotions, they do not like each other. Their problems had begun long before Pam's death. When Clay was an unhappy infant in his crib, he stopped crying when Pam hugged him. When Judd picked him up, the crying got louder and nastier. And things went downhill from there. Clay was a bright, sensitive, talented boy. He became a promising violinist and lover of music, a fine student, and an outstanding athlete whose sport of choice was soccer. Tough and unyielding, Judd was the chief of police in their tiny hometown of Riverwood, Minnesota. He had dreams for his son, none of which apparently would ever be fulfilled. The older both of them got, the more they grew apart. 

However, as compelling as the conflicts between that father and son are, even more fascinating is the story of Clay and his son, Braedon. That relationship began with an event that draws us directly into an emotional storm. At this point, an explanation of how the pair came to “meet” is necessary. But we must begin that story with a bit more information about Clay's young life.

"Matt Goldman has done a magnificent job of presenting a series of knotty plot threads and then cleverly untying those knots.... LIAR’S CREEK is altogether a brilliantly conceived and effectively executed novel of love and suspense."

Clay managed to enroll in an exclusive private high school to which he earned entry because of his many talents --- and without telling his father. He was a star on the school's soccer team and received offers from many colleges but quite surprisingly picked West Point, where his soccer stardom continued. And Judd once again had no input in his son's decisions. After West Point, he chose European professional soccer as his life's occupation. Again, he was a star. 

Then, one night after a game, Clay went to a bar and met a lovely young lady with whom he immediately became enchanted. And she apparently returned the feeling. They spent the night together, and he tried repeatedly to call her the next day, but she refused to respond. He saw her only one more time, and that resulted in a shocking development. Months later, he was alone at home when his doorbell rang. When he opened the door, she was standing there, holding an infant in her arms. She told him that he was the baby's father, and she was offering him the opportunity to keep the child --- because she would not. Ultimately, he decided to raise the baby and named him Braedon.

The relationship between this father and son is in every way the opposite of Clay and Judd's. It does become complicated at this point but remains logical and understandable. Clay and Braedon represent a virtually perfect father-son bond, sharing wonderful ideals and times together. When Clay decides to quit his life as a traveling soccer star, he chooses to go back home with his son to live in the town in which he grew up. Braedon meets Judd, and their relationship is special and entirely positive. Braedon is almost like the son Judd never had, despite the ongoing difficulties between Judd and Clay. 

But now we are introduced to the character whose fate becomes the primary plot thread for the rest of the novel. That's Teddy Hawkins, a truly fascinating guy whose personality defies consistency, logic or even accurate description. 

Teddy has been a favorite of everyone who has ever known him. He's a ne'er-do-well who has never been able to hold a job, plan a realistic future, or be proven reliable in any way or in any circumstance. Yet above all, he's lovable and loving. He's Judd's younger brother, and Judd has spent most of his life protecting the “kid.” He's also, of course, Clay's uncle and Braedon's great-uncle, and he's been married for years to a patient and ultra-thoughtful woman named Deb. 

The rest of the novel's cast includes several people who are significant contributors to Teddy's story. Among them are Zoey, the new chief of the Riverwood police force since Judd was fired because the town was allegedly looking for new blood. But despite the awkwardness of the situation, Judd did a more than respectable job of training her for her new position. Zoey and Clay are immediately attracted to each other. We also meet Stephanie, the owner of a beauty shop and Clay's girlfriend when the two were teenagers. Clay is the only male who is a regular customer at Steph's place. Then there are three teenage juvenile delinquents who give Braedon and his friend, Daniel, a very rough time and pull some disgusting and dangerous stunts. One of those kids is Steph's unruly son, who was born when she was married to an adult delinquent named Wags.

Teddy has disappeared and for a frighteningly long time has not reappeared. The search for him features the individuals above, all of whom like and/or love him. The unfolding of this most important plot thread includes a kidnapping threat; some surprising revelations about Clay's life and career; and deeds that are both heroic and villainous, performed by unexpectedly heroic characters. But the big questions that remain regard Teddy's disappearance. Did he just decide to take a trip without telling anyone or preparing anyone for it? (He's done that kind of thing before.) Was he kidnapped? Is his life endangered? Was he murdered? Did he die by suicide? Did he commit a crime and decide to just run away rather than face the consequences? Had he fallen in with some dangerous, maybe even evil characters? Will his loved ones ever see him again?

These questions are answered via a semi-happy but certainly melancholy climax and denouement. The climax itself revolves around a subtle and gentle twist that's worthy of any fine mystery novel. Matt Goldman has done a magnificent job of presenting a series of knotty plot threads and then cleverly untying those knots. Along the way, he has given us well-rounded characters who communicate some valuable lessons about the power of close relationships, the nobility of forgiveness, and the overwhelming beauty of familial love. 

LIAR’S CREEK is altogether a brilliantly conceived and effectively executed novel of love and suspense. I highly recommend it.