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C.J. Box's "Badlands" is a gripping crime thriller that follows a young detective named Cassie Dewell as she investigates a series of gruesome murders in the remote and desolate Badlands of North Dakota.The novel begins with the discovery of a truck stop prostitute's body in a drainage ditch, followed by the discovery of several other bodies in the same area. Cassie Dewell, who has recently moved to the area to take a job as a deputy sheriff, is assigned to the case and quickly realizes that she is dealing with a serial killer.The novel is fast-paced and suspenseful, with multiple twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Box's writing is crisp and engaging, and he does an excellent job of creating a sense of place and atmosphere in the barren and unforgiving landscape of the Badlands.One of the strengths of "Badlands" is the depth and complexity of its characters. Cassie Dewell is a strong and capable detective who is determined to catch the killer, but she also has a troubled past that haunts her and makes her vulnerable. Her investigation is complicated by the fact that the local sheriff, a corrupt and ruthless politician named Kyle Granger, is more interested in protecting his own interests than in solving the case.The killer himself is a fascinating character, with a twisted and disturbing motivation for his crimes that is gradually revealed over the course of the novel. Box does an excellent job of balancing the killer's point of view with that of the investigators, which adds an extra layer of tension and suspense to the story.Another strength of "Badlands" is its exploration of the social and economic issues facing the people who live in the Badlands region. The novel takes place during an oil boom that has brought an influx of workers and money to the area, but has also created a host of problems, including crime, drug addiction, and environmental degradation. Box does an excellent job of depicting the complex and often contradictory forces at play in this region, and he shows how these forces shape the lives of the characters in the story.Overall, "Badlands" is a compelling and well-written crime thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Box's excellent characterization, strong sense of place, and skillful plotting make this a standout novel in the genre. Whether you're a fan of crime fiction or simply looking for a gripping and suspenseful read, "Badlands" is definitely worth checking out.