Children to the Slaughter - Slaughter Series, #1

Melington has changed. There is an evil lurking in the darkness, under the beds and behind closet doors. It seeks vengeance and retribution and will not be denied. No one knows this more than Alan Carter. Returning to his hometown after a twenty year absence, he is resolute in uncovering the truth behind his sister's abduction and the strange disappearance of children. Joined by his childhood friend, Alan finds himself thrown into the middle of a conspiracy led by the town Council as it desperately tries to hide its secrets from the world.
No child is safe in Melington, and Alan Carter needs to stop the curse that has haunted his hometown for generations. But as Alan's brushes with death become more frequent, he finds himself running out of luck.