Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
There’s More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that’s crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss. The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon’s long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal. The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable—he knows too much.

255 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2017

724 people are currently reading
1200 people want to read

About the author

Creston Mapes

38 books504 followers
Creston Mapes grew up in northeast Ohio, where he has fond memories of living with his family of five in the upstairs portion of his dad’s early American furniture store - The Weathervane Shop. Creston was not a good student, but the one natural talent he possessed was writing.

He set type by hand and cranked out his own neighborhood newspaper as a kid, then went on to graduate with a degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University. Creston was a newspaper reporter and photographer in Ohio and Florida, then moved to Atlanta, Georgia, for a job as a creative copywriter.

Creston served for a stint as a creative director, but quickly learned he was not cut out for management. He went out on his own as a freelance writer in 1991 and, over the next 30 years, did work for Chick-fil-A, Coca-Cola, The Weather Channel, Oracle, ABC-TV, TNT Sports, colleges and universities, ad agencies, and more. He’s ghost-written more than ten non-fiction books.

Creston has penned many contemporary thrillers, achieved Amazon Bestseller status multiple times, and had one of his novels (Nobody) optioned as a major motion picture.

Creston married his fourth-grade sweetheart, Patty, and they have four amazing adult children. Creston loves his part-time job as an usher at local venues where he gets to see all the latest-greatest concerts and sporting events. He enjoys reading, fishing, thrifting, bocci, painting, bowling, pickleball, time with his family, and dates with his wife.

Keep informed of special deals, giveaways, new releases, and exclusive updates from Creston: crestonmapes.com/contact

For Creston’s eBooks, audiobooks, and paperbacks: amazon.com/author/crestonmapes

STAND ALONE THRILLERS
Celebrity Pastor
I Am In Here
Nobody

SIGNS OF LIFE SERIES
Signs of Life
Let My Daughter Go
I Pick You
Charm Artist
Son & Shield
Secrets in Shadows
Who Is My Neighbor?

THE CRITTENDON FILES
Fear Has a Name
Poison Town
Sky Zone

ROCK STAR CHRONICLES
Dark Star: Confessions of a Rock Idol
Full Tilt




Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,088 (59%)
4 stars
505 (27%)
3 stars
170 (9%)
2 stars
37 (2%)
1 star
15 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
Profile Image for Mark.
2,489 reviews52 followers
July 24, 2024
The first book I read by Creston Mapes, was the first book in The Crittendon Files, Fear Has a Name. I was impressed with the book, and was eagerly waiting for the second book, Poison Town, to come out.

This sequel doesn't disappoint. I really like the main character and am glad to see the series is going to revolve around him. In this book, he does some investigative journalism that endangers himself, his family, and others, and the idea is explored how important is justice and getting to the bottom of a crime, if it puts ones your love in danger. And also, how far will a company go to cover up their mistakes.

Nothing against the first book the series, as I loved it, but I thought this book was even better. It had a better and more complicated plot, a lot more bad guys and action, and a lot more suspense. I started reading it soon after I got it, and read it through in one sitting, something I do when a book is hard to put down, and this one was.



I was more than satisfied with this sequel, and can't wait to see what is in store next for the hero of this series.



This is a series men will enjoy reading, as well as women. And I would recommend reading the first book before you read the second, as there are several references to what happened in book one, and it will make a lot more sense if you have read them in order.
Profile Image for Tawallah.
1,154 reviews62 followers
May 21, 2019
The title is so apt. The author shows the effects of a poison in this small Ohio City. The linchpin of this story is the physical poison affecting the poorer portion of a community. There is a nearby factory and the residents have been experiencing similar symptoms of dizziness, difficulties in breathing, fatigue and higher levels of lymphoma. But there are other poison affecting the lives of the Critterdon family and friends.

This was a fast paced read at times and the tension was well written. Despite the pacing, you had great insight into most of the characters. This has a Christian basis but is never preachy.

Even though I read this sequel long after the first book, I’m remain impressed with the writing and the themes covered. Definitely worth a read.
Profile Image for Crystal.
366 reviews34 followers
February 3, 2024
Oh man, this one is good! I'm really enjoying how this author dives so deep into the emotions of the characters and how their experiences impact them on the inside. In this book, Jack has some lingering resentment and unforgiveness toward Granger. I loved that this second book doesn't just "move along" into the next story line, but flows into the aftermath of Pam's abduction and how Jack dealt with what Granger did to his family.

Jack also happens to have an interaction with a family he's known for a long time who believe a local mega company is causing it's employees and those living in the community to become sick. It seems a bit outrageous at first but the more he digs, the more he uncovers, and as he starts uncovering the truth, he puts himself and everyone around him in tremendous danger.

Although the pace started out much slower in this one, it definitely became full of action and twists and turns. I enjoyed the new characters that were introduced in this book, and was cheering for the Randall's when they announced they weren't going anywhere and were going to stand and defend their ground. I just loved that they were mens men and full of courage. The faith based element was present in this book with a focus on forgiveness, and how unforgiveness can impact everyone around us as and our relationships. Definitely looking forward to the last book in the series!

(Side note-I listened to this on audio book and found the narrator inconsistent with the voices of the characters, especially Jacks.)
30 reviews2 followers
December 13, 2018
This is sooooo good! I had to choose when I would I would pick the book up because I'd have a hard time putting it down! And at the end i was riveted to my chair! And Pam even tho fearful keeps going on. And in her continued courage she helps her mom find strength and Jack to realize his need to forgive. But WOW the getting there! You don't want to miss this!
Profile Image for C.B. Cook.
Author 6 books214 followers
June 9, 2015
I really enjoyed this book!!! My dad was reading it out loud to me, so we only read one or two chapters a night... WHICH NEARLY KILLED ME. I can definitely feel the stakes upping the farther into the series we get.
Profile Image for Amie's Book Reviews.
1,656 reviews179 followers
February 12, 2014
POISON TOWN REVIEW

I was lucky enough to receive a paperback copy of POISON TOWN by Creston Mapes through the Goodreads Giveaway program.

I highly recommend entering for a chance to win copies of books that interest you at www.goodreads.com/giveaways
It is a great way to find out about new books and new authors. All that is asked of you in return is that once you complete the book, that you post a fair and honest review.

Prior to reading POISON TOWN, I had no previous knowledge of this author. Knowing that his books are dubbed as "Christian" books put me off at first because I enjoy reading, but I do not enjoy being preached at. However, despite the "Christian" genre, I found this book to be a great read. It was not in the least bit preachy and was not overly religious.

This is an engrossing tale about corporate greed, good intentions, and an individual's ability to forgive.

What would your reaction be if someone kidnapped the person you loved and was released from prison because he had supposedly "reformed" or had "found God"?

Would you be able to forgive him? Would you believe his reform was genuine?
Would you move on with your lives and wish him well? Or would you buy a gun to protect your family, just in case?

While all this is happening, Jack (a reporter) stumbles upon a lead for a potentially explosive story. He learns that there are a small minority of people that believe the local fiberglass manufacturing facility is poisoning their employees and the residents of the community that live closest to the Plant.

People are dying. And it seems that some former employees have received money to keep quiet about the supposed problems with the factory's environmental policies. Those that didn't accept money (and even some who did) have an alarming habit of disappearing or turning up dead.

Jack is determined to keep his family safe from the man who had previously kidnapped his wife. He is equally determined to get to the bottom of what is happening at the factory.

Complicating matters is the fact that the company's CEO is passionate about Green Policies and insists that his factory is one of the most environmentally friendly factories in the country. The EPA has investigated and cleared the company of any wrongdoing.

Further complications come into play because most of the town is employed by the factory and if it were to shut down, the local economy would be crippled.

If it is true that the factory is doing nothing wrong, why are people in and around the factory dying in eerily similar ways?

Creston Mapes weaves an intricate and well researched tale that will have readers on the edge of their seats.

This is a tale of David versus Goliath. Will the big corporation with it's unlimited assets and deep pockets prevail? Or, will justice be served?

What exactly is happening at the factory? And who is responsible?

Will Jack ever be able to forgive the man who kidnapped his wife? Will their marriage survive their difference of opinion on the topic of forgiveness? Did Granger (the kidnapper) really reform? Or will he return to finish what he started? Is Jack right to suspect Granger's reformation?
Will they survive long enough to find out?

You will need to read the book to find out.

I rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars.

Profile Image for Tom.
43 reviews7 followers
February 9, 2014
I couldn't wait to read what Creston Mapes had in store for his readers in Poison Town. I must say I enjoyed every chapter of his novel. Obviously I am a fan of Creston Mapes stories. This one didn't disappoint me.

The story is one of myterious circumstances, surrounding a corporation called Demler-Vargus. People near the plant complain that the company is spewing cancer-causing pollutants in the air, land, and water.

Jack Crittendon, reporter for the local newspaper, learns his car mechanic of many years has developed emphysema. And his mechanic's wife has died of lymphoma. Other people surrounding this plant that manufactures fiberglass products have suddenly died or became sick.

Jack not only investigates the plant but also families who claimed to have lost loved ones due to plant pollution.

Also Jack has to deal with forgiveness resulting from a previous crime that affected his wife and family.

The characters that Creston Mapes develops are believable, true-to-life, and at times humorous.

This novel was a great page-turner. I have read his novel, Nobody, and enjoyed it ; but Poison Town is a gem in itself.

I received this free book from the author, publisher David C Cook, and TheBookClubNetwork for my honest review.
Profile Image for Sherri Johnson.
Author 23 books289 followers
April 14, 2014
Poison Town by Creston Mapes is as addicting as Fear has a Name, the first book in this series about Jack Crittendon, local reporter. Yes, there's suspicion that a manufacturing plant is manufacturing an illegal product and that it's poisoning the townsfolk who live nearby. But "there's more than one kind of poison in this town!" (as it says on the back cover). I don't quite know how to put into words the type of stories Creston Mapes weaves together. From the first page, the characters are engaging and real. His use of description puts you right in the middle of the scene. Things that pop up in the beginning of the story show up somewhere in the end. I'm talking about details that you don't think are important. But they are. You have to keep your eyes and ears open in this book or you'll miss something. Nothing was predictable. If you like John Grisham, you'll love Mapes! The only bad thing about this book is that it ended. I found myself staring at it on my desk wishing there was more to read. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
506 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2017
The extent to which you forgive others, that is the extent to which you will be forgiven. My favorite quote from this book. This is a Christian fiction novel and I enjoyed the reminder of what anger and bitterness can do to a person.

Jack Crittendon is back in Poison Town carrying around a lot of anger and unforgiveness toward the man who tried to harm his wife in the first book of this series. You see Jack and his wife struggling with his hatred and unforgiveness through out the book.

On top of all this Jack, who is a reporter for a local paper, is sucked into investigating a story about a local plant that is blamed for killing town members by leaking chemicals. I enjoyed this part of the story as well. Good suspense and action there.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Sherri.
1,619 reviews
April 11, 2024
This is a page-turner. Reporter Jack Crittendon dives into corporate greed when a friend falls ill. Jack and others take on the big company that supplies many jobs to their town when their questions and research start to unfold. Only thing is now Jack knows too much and the lengths the company will go to cover up.

Personally Jack's wife Pam and Jack are still recovering from events in Book 1. Can he forgive yet? Will the bitterness skew his thinking?

Mapes does a great job of showing a married couple and the challenges, questions, and love for each other that happen in our lives. This was a really good movie playing out as you read it.
Profile Image for Andi Tubbs.
969 reviews82 followers
March 17, 2014
Creston Maples creates a story full of mystery and suspense. He grabs you on page one and you are hanging on for a wild ride! Jack Crittendon is a man on a mission and he won't let anyone get in his way. Watching Jack and his wife extend forgiveness beyond their human abilities reminded me of how I learned to extend forgiveness toward my former husband and his mistress. A lesson we all have to learn at some point that to the extent we forgive, that is the extent our Father will forgive us. Highly recommended!
289 reviews
May 11, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book the second in the series, looking forward to Sky Zone. It is about people overcoming their fears and getting stronger. People forgetting to stay in touch with God, getting to busy in everyday life. Learning to forgive when it is very hard to forget what the person has done. And, what lengths big companies will do for money. No caring for anything, but the money. I look for books men can enjoy without too much romance and this is one of them. I would recommend this book to young adult and up.
46 reviews1 follower
December 24, 2020
Another page turner from Mapes!

I found Mapes' work just a month ago and this is my FIFTH novel in just four weeks. Mapes is a perfect mix of page-turnijg thriller and wholesome, Christian fiction. I highly recommend any book he has written. I'm too addicted to stop now. On to the next one!
Profile Image for Deb Brammer.
Author 15 books30 followers
November 27, 2023
I enjoyed this book about standing up against corruption, even at great cost. Forgiveness was a strong theme in the plot. It's great to see Christians standing up for what's right. The suspense built to a strong climax at the end and Mapes paced the suspense well.
133 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2024
This is the second book in The Crittendon Files and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book was well-paced and held my attention throughout. I’m looking forward to the third in the series, Sky Zone.
Profile Image for Pamela Baker.
Author 2 books22 followers
July 6, 2024
It took me a while to get into this, but the last third was the thriller I'd expected. It could have been me trying to remember book one. Good Biblical truths.
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
August 16, 2024
Poison Town was an okay read. I didn't find it as gripping as the first book and was slightly bored when reading it. I didn't like how in the beginning Jack was so full of anger and the angst that caused in their marriage.

There were a lot of different POV, which was fine, but at times that made it difficult to follow each storyline. They connected in the end, though, which was nice.

My favorite part of the book was her mom's growth and how she seems to be changing. I hope the next book brings her complete healing and we find out what happened to her years ago.

All in all, not a favorite read for me, but I'll read the next book since I already have it and am interested enough to continue on.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
386 reviews1 follower
August 21, 2022
Okay, so I started not to read the second book in this series because this kind of topic doesn't interest me normally, however I decided to go ahead and read it to see of there was any carry over from the 1st story. I am so gladi did. I think I enjoyed the 2nd book better. (I really enjoyed the 1st book) and when I read what the 3rd book was about, I kinda feel the same (don't enjoy these topics), however the 2nd book fooled me, so I have to read the 3rd. Highly recommend the series if you like mystery and suspense and for me I also love that this is a Christian author! And the Christian context!
Profile Image for Nellie.
580 reviews
May 13, 2017
This book is a real page turner. If I did not have other obligations, I would have stayed up all night to finish it!

The story continues where book 1, Fear Has A Name, ends. Granger's trial ends with a conviction. Pastor Evan meets with Granger after his release from prison. He is released back to Trenton City. Pam has been able to forgive while Jack harbours unforgiveness.

The local factory might be polluting the city. His mechanic is poisoned while in the hospital! As Jack begins to investigate the web of deception grows bigger. The newspaper editor seems reluctant to allow Jack to write an investigative article.
130 reviews3 followers
February 1, 2022
Great Series!

I am so glad to have found this great series and amazing author. I cannot wait to read more from Creston Mapes. This page turner was so hard to put down. Excellent read!
Profile Image for Justin.
275 reviews6 followers
October 20, 2017
3.5 Very good, but compared to part one, not as enjoyable for me. Some of the corny dialog took me out of the story a bit. But the characters were so well written and enjoyable to read. It was a much different story this time, but still worth reading.
Profile Image for Anita Quelle.
421 reviews1 follower
October 10, 2022
Poison Town

A corporation is poisoning people with the toxins that they are making in their factory. Jack under covers a story that will bring corruption to the surface. Good read.
Profile Image for Dana.
555 reviews12 followers
July 31, 2021
Wonderful book! Very intense and emotional. Sadly, it actually interfered with my sleep so I’m putting off book #2. But I really enjoyed this book.
282 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2022
Poison Town(book2) of Crittenden Files

I very, very enjoyed this2nd book in this Christian thriller. It is past amazing.I recommend anyone to read it. You will not want to put it down.
391 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2021
Mesmerizing

A thriller mystery hard to put down! I read it in 2 days time. Thought provoking - a real legal thriller where you’re not too sure who all the good & bad guys are until the end.
Profile Image for Ryan Oakes.
47 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2023
I was really curious how the storylines from book 1 would connect to book 2, and he honestly did a great job. The fears from past hurt, the poison of not forgiving, and yet another thrilling plot for good ole Jack Crittendon. Mapes has managed to bring both books 1 & 2 down to the final wire with all of the different pieces coming together just at the right moment and it’s awesome.
Again, such a captivating thriller full of Christian disciplines put on display in the lives of Jack and Pam. Such a sneaky witness.
305 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2019
For positive excitement in a mystery novel you can't beat this one!!

Jack and Pamela thought the were finished with the whole Granger deal and found them selves in the middle of a crooked manufacturing company.
130 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2020
Excellent Book

Jack finds out his mechanics and friends, the Randalls, have suspicions that the largest employer in the area, Demler-Vargas, is releasing chemicals into the air that are making the Randalls and their neighbors ill. Jack and his best friend Derrick agree to investigate. People begin disappearing and dying under mysterious circumstances. Then...I definitely recommend this book!
Profile Image for Mark Petronic.
1 review1 follower
June 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this book in the previous one in the series. The author writes a very personal and engaging style that keeps you interested in the next chapter and the next chapter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.