For fans of investigative thrillers, “Hazardous Lies” is a must-read that uncovers the dark side of corporate negligence. Set in the modern day, the story primarily unfolds in Charleston, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., following the devastating aftermath of a catastrophic chemical plant explosion. It weaves together a high-stakes plot with deep-seated moral dilemmas.

The story centers on Jon Barrett, a mechanical engineer burdened by a past professional failure that has left him cautious and withdrawn. When his new boss, Craig Higgins, tasks him with investigating the incident, Jon is thrust into a high-stakes and chaotic scene at the Chemtrifuge Chemicals plant. Jon's personal journey is central to the story; his initial reluctance to engage is slowly overcome by a growing sense of duty and a need for personal redemption. He faces resistance from plant manager Sam Page and HR manager Charlie, who are more concerned with damage control and deflecting blame onto contractors than with finding the truth. As Jon begins to dig, the atmosphere of corporate secrecy and outright obstruction becomes palpable, but his determination to find the truth ultimately pushes him past his own professional anxieties.

The book succeeds in its exploration of character and theme. Jon's journey from a man haunted by failure to one relentlessly pursuing justice is a powerful arc of personal redemption. His investigation becomes more than a job; it is a quest to overcome his own past and advocate for the victims of the tragedy. He faces off against formidable figures like the ruthless executive Cain Quinn and contends with the political influence of Senator A.C. Mounts, whose son is tangled up in the incident. These confrontations highlight the central themes of corporate negligence and the unyielding pursuit of truth, painting a clear picture of the lengths to which powerful entities will go to conceal their mistakes.

The tension culminates in a powerful climax as Jon uncovers the critical detail that improper materials in the plant’s piping directly contributed to the explosion, leading to a final high-stakes confrontation. The plot is thought-provoking, demonstrating how Jon's efforts lead to significant changes in company practices and charges against executives, while not shying away from the somber reality of the lives lost. It leaves an impression, underscoring the importance of integrity and perseverance in the face of profound adversity.

“Hazardous Lies” is a compelling thriller that combines a thrilling plot with a meaningful character arc. It offers a detailed and intricate experience, perfect for readers who appreciate an immersive story about industrial disasters and the moral battles that follow. Through Jon Barrett’s courageous journey, the book ultimately affirms that even in the darkest of circumstances, the pursuit of truth can prevail.