Harriet Klausner's Review Archive
Although he knows the FBI charges were bogus, Ben Hemmings is stunned to find he will spend three years in an Alabama minimum-security cell. However, the prison was right next door to a high security correctional institution whose overflow of patrons were sent to the same "country club" that Ben now calls home. Some of the incarcerated like Rollie Shore own the prison and you either follow his rules, be prepared to protect oneself, or suffer the consequences.
Eighteen months of Rollie and the need to keep his wife and children safe lead Ben to cut a deal with the FBI. Now he is free and seeking stolen horse sperm even as Ben goes up against an also liberated Rollie.
ON ICE is an intriguing tale that provides the audience with an insightful look at prison life. When the story line profiles an insider view at the incarceration industry from the perspective of its prime supplier (convicts), the plot is interesting and amazingly filled with ardor. The who-done-it and the civilian battle with Rollie seem stretched, but well written because readers will continue to feel Ben's anguish. Though not quite as exciting nor straightforward as his art mysteries (see THIEF OF LIGHT and THE GRAVIYTY OF SHADOWS) David Ramus paints an entertaining tale, especially the life behind the bars subplot.