'Eyes Wide Open' is intense, compelling

A man’s promise to always be there for his nephew opens up a forgotten past with horrible consequences in “Eyes Wide Open” by Andrew Gross. Estranged from his brother, Jay Erlich is surprised when he gets a call from Charlie. Unfortunately, the news isn’t pleasant. Charlie’s son is dead. Jay decides to visit his brother to offer comfort and help.

As he learns more about his nephew’s death, Jay begins to suspect that it’s not as straightforward as it may appear. The police don’t seem interested in investigating. Since his nephew was mentally ill, the authorities assume he wasn’t taking his medication.