Thrilling ‘Captives’ a portrait of fate, obsession

Teenage obsessions often fade as one grows up. But psychologist Frank Lundquist never got over his fixation on his high school crush, Miranda Greene — his preoccupation with her only receded into the back of his mind. Until, that is, once golden girl Miranda shows up as an inmate at the Milford Basin Correctional Facility where Frank is now a counselor.

Debra Jo Immergut’s subtle precision — without stooping to cliches or the obvious — shows how Frank and Miranda are captives of their past, present and future. Immergut’s debut novel is a fascinat- ing psychological look at two damaged people as well as being a solid thriller with unusual, and believable, twists.

As a teen, Frank stalked Miranda, watching her intently during class, spying on

her when she changed in the locker room for track and following her every moment. Frank, the son of a famous psychiatrist, went on to have a successful, thriving practice until his work imploded and his marriage ended. Now he is a counselor at the Milford Basin Correctional Facility that houses women prisoners. Miranda was a popular top student and athlete, the daughter of a wealthy oneterm congressman. Now she is serving a 52-year sentence for second-degree murder.

Frank immediately recognizes Miranda when she becomes his patient. While he knows that ethically he should refer her to another counselor, he often has proved himself to be morally challenged. Their sessions allow Frank to continue his fantasies while Miranda has a secret reason to continue counseling. Although she admits Frank “lit up some dusty corridors of memory,” Miranda has no idea who he is. How these sessions change both — and lead to inescapable consequences — propels “The Captives” to its surprising finale.