Jesse Runions

The Zoo Jesse Runions

From the early 1900's to present day Joplin, Missouri has been a hideout for outlaws. Nothing has changed with the new century. The city is the perfect environment for those that wish to stay in the shadows. Joplin is the playground for skirting the fine line between lawful, and lawless. The widespread proliferation of Meth amphetamines and Opoid's makes each day for the city's leaders, citizens, a never ending struggle to keep all under control. It is up to former Patrol Officer (now Lieutenant) Marie Hart to make sense of a city that seems to be sinking in the abyss. A friend behind the scenes sends her a little help. At the center of it all is a new nightclub, "The Zoo." It's Joplin's premiere venue, and brief escape from all cares. Taylor Morgan, a precocious, attractive, college drop out, finds herself thrust in the position as "the Zoo's" General Manager. As Taylor delves deeper into the complexities of running a night club, she discovers there might be more to it than meets the eye. Is it the hidden thread, of amusement, crime, sex, sin, virtue, and love that holds the city together? "The Zoo" is a mirror of the city it serves. The most important question is who are the "animals" and who are the "the Zoo 'keepers?'