Hanging Rock
A Novel by Bill Rabbitt
Coming February 18, 2027
“A tense and emotionally layered crime novel, Hanging Rock pairs relentless pacing with deeply human character work. This is crime fiction with a heart, conscience, and something meaningful to say.”
— Jesse Roder, award-winning author
“Bill Rabbitt's Hanging Rock reads like Dennis Lehane moved Mystic River to the Adirondacks—a beleaguered homicide detective returns to the dark side of a popular mountain town to try to save the only family he knows from the perils of addiction and corruption.”
— Cam Torrens, bestselling author of the Tyler Zahn mystery/suspense series.
About the Author
I’ve spent my adult life in public service, first as a paramedic and then in law enforcement, serving in roles including K9 officer and detective sergeant before becoming Chief of Police in a small city in upstate New York. In the aftermath of 9/11, I was at Ground Zero, an experience that left a lasting mark on how I understand trauma, service, and resilience.
I bring lived experience to my crime fiction, writing stories marked by grit and an earned dark sense of humor. I’m drawn to the emotional cost of violence, the weight of duty, and the people left to pick up the pieces.
When I’m away from the job, I’m usually spending time with my wife in our Rabbitts’ Rustics workshop or planning our next trip to Italy. We live in upstate New York with our five children.
Advance Praise for Hanging Rock
Hanging Rock by Bill Rabbitt is a gritty, gripping crime story with an unexpected dose of insight and compassion.
— Bill Schweitzer, author of Doves in a Tempest
“I'm a sucker for a good noir crime drama with strong characters, a lot of action and above all, a moral center. Hanging Rock delivers on all counts.”
— Deb Heim, author of Descartes' Demon
“Hanging Rock is a crime novel that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go. Within three pages, the energy is so immediate and relentless that you're already rooting for Detective Mike Rindell.”
—Paul Jantzen, author of Sour Apples
Rabbitt delivers the kind of police procedural that feels utterly lived-in—sharp, authentic, and impossible to put down. A gripping police thriller that combines atmospheric storytelling with a dark, compelling plot.
—S.A. McLain, author of Blood on the Veld
“Bill Rabbitt's Hanging Rock reads like Dennis Lehane moved Mystic River to the Adirondacks—a beleaguered homicide detective returns to the dark side of a popular mountain town to try to save the only family he knows from the perils of addiction and corruption.”
— Cam Torrens, bestselling author of the Tyler Zahn mystery/suspense series.
Contact Me
For interview requests, event inquiries, book club questions, media opportunities, or other professional inquiries, please use the form below. I’d be glad to hear from you.