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“Track of the Cat” by Nevada Barr

 

“Track of the Cat” by Nevada Barr is a mystery story set against the high-country trails of the Guadalupe Mountains of West Texas, where the age-old battle of man against nature is fought with a frightening twist. It’s the first novel in her Anna Pigeon series, which revolves around the adventures of a National Park Service ranger named Anna Pigeon. In “Track of the Cat,” Anna is stationed at the fictional West Texas’s Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Barr, having been a park ranger herself, offers readers an authentic portrayal of the national parks, the beauty and peril of the wild, and the unique challenges and experiences faced by those who work there.

In “Track of the Cat”, readers are introduced to Anna Pigeon, a ranger stationed at the lesser-known Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The mystery unfurls with the grim discovery of a ranger’s body, the immediate cause of death believed to be a cougar attack. However, Anna’s intuition and her love for the wild creatures of the park make her question this theory. As more bodies turn up, her conviction strengthens, and she finds herself ensnared in a deepening web of intrigue.

I’ve spent some time in the West Texas desert when I lived in San Angelo and then in Abilene, so one of the novel’s strong points for me is its setting. Barr, a former park ranger herself, vividly captures the desolate beauty of the West Texas desert, so much so that readers can almost feel the scorching heat and the rugged rocks beneath their feet. She crafts a realm where the beauty of nature contrasts sharply with the underlying threat of a murderer on the loose. Anna’s treks into the park’s backcountry sound inviting despite the lack of water sources, speaking to the allure of the untouched wilderness.

Nevada Barr’s protagonist, Anna Pigeon, is a well-developed character with depth and complexity. Her background as a widow escaping her past in New York, a distant relationship with her psychiatrist sister that allows for introspective moments, and her struggle with alcoholism, paint a portrait of a woman who is at once tough and vulnerable. Her worldly cynicism is tempered by her deep appreciation for nature. However, her near-superhero escapades towards the story’s climax may stretch believability for some readers but for me, it made suspenseful reading.

The plot, tension-filled, is interlaced with intricate park politics, infighting among rangers, and age-old disputes between ranchers and conservationists. The stakes rise when it becomes clear that condemning a cougar for the murders could have devastating environmental and political consequences. Anna’s tenacity in uncovering the truth leads her on a treacherous path, putting her squarely in the crosshairs of a killer. The ending, while unexpected and generally satisfying, leaves readers with a few unresolved threads and potential missteps in the realm of the mystery writers’ code.

Reading “Track of the Cat” feels like shadowing Anna through the sunbaked canyons and peaks, sensing the imminent danger posed by both nature and man. Anna’s sleuthing skills are excellent, with her logic and intuition guiding her through the twisted trails of the investigation. It is a Southwestern mystery that showcases Nevada Barr’s talent both as a mystery writer and a natural storyteller. Her authentic depiction of park ranger life and the intricacies of human-nature relationships is engaging. It’s no surprise she clinched the Agatha Award for best first mystery with this offering. Anna’s journey alongside the reader, working to decipher the crime, makes for a thrilling experience and a good read.

Nevada Barr is an American author of mystery fiction and known for her Anna Pigeon series of which “Track of the Cat” is the first. Her work is primarily set in a series of national parks and other protected areas of the United States.

Nevada Barr’s Website  https://nevadabarr.com/

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Writing A Successful Classic Mystery

Attribution: J. R. Cotner

I recently spent time browsing through my rather dusty bookshelves, taking stock of the great reads I’ve collected over the years. Many are intricate, classic mysteries written by some of the most successful and admired authors of that genre and era. Why were they so popular? What made them such a success?

Writing a classic mystery novel is a complex process that requires careful thought and planning. Here are three of the most important considerations for authors in this genre:

Plot Structure and Clue Placement:

The classic mystery is intricately designed with a sequence of events occurring within a believable timeline. Clues—neither too obvious nor too obscure—and red herrings are essential plot elements planted at key points of the story to build tension and suspense. That structure allows a gradual revelation of details to guide the discerning reader through the story toward an eventual resolution that ties up all loose ends and leads to a logical and satisfying conclusion.

Character Development and Motivation:

Characters, especially the detective and the perpetrator, must be well-rounded and have clear motivations that drive their actions. This can add depth and make the story more engaging. Secondary characters also play a critical role, as they often contribute to the plot through their relationships with the main characters, their secrets, and their alibis.

Setting and Atmosphere:

The setting of a classic mystery often plays a critical role in the mood and the unfolding of the plot. It must be described in a way that adds to the tension and supports the story. Whether it’s a gloomy mansion, a small village, or a bustling city, the setting must be depicted in a way that complements the tone of the mystery and aids in the unfolding of clues.

Writing a mystery requires a delicate balance between these elements, and a failure in any of these areas can lead to a less-than-satisfying reading experience. Many successful mystery writers spend significant time planning and outlining their novels to ensure that these aspects are all carefully considered and integrated into the story.

Here are examples of classic mystery novels that particularly exemplify each of the three considerations I’ve listed. First up is Plot Structure and Clue Placement and I’ve listed a work by Agatha Christie.

“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” by Christie (published in 1926) is, I believe, an excellent example of a meticulously crafted plot structure and clue placement in a classic work. Christie employs a series of twists and turns, carefully planting clues that lead to a shocking and unexpected conclusion. The use of an unreliable narrator and the placement of red herrings are particularly masterful.

As an excellent example of Character Development and Motivation in a classic mystery, I think “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett (published in 1930) fits the bill as it showcases character development and motivation as key elements. Sam Spade, the protagonist, is a fully realized character with complex motives, and the villains have clear motivations that drive the plot forward. Relationships between characters are intricate, and the interactions are essential in unraveling the mystery.

As for Setting and Atmosphere, I will recommend “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier (published in 1938). The classic setting of the Manderley estate as a critical component of the story is very effective. The eerie and atmospheric mansion almost becomes its own character, and the descriptive language paints a vivid picture that adds to the mystery and suspense. The setting creates a gothic tone that deeply impacts the unfolding of the plot. The opening line of the story is unforgettable: “Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again.” Classic.

I held these three rules close and emulated them when writing my own work, “Mystery Of The Death Hearth”. For anyone wishing to write an effective, compelling, and engaging mystery in the classic style, I suggest dusting off a copy of each of those works to read again. Their influence can still be seen in contemporary mystery writing.

 

 

 

 

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A Gripping Finale to an Outstanding Historical Fiction Series

 King of the Anglo Saxons by Millie Thom

Premise (from book promo): Following Guthrum’s crushing defeat at Edington, Alfred’s kingdom is enjoying a rare period of peace. Alfred is ageing. Bouts of his old illness are increasingly frequent, and he prays that his final years will be free of Viking raids, allowing him to concentrate on expanding his kingdom’s boundaries and improving its standard of learning. Scholars are summoned from near and far, amongst them a certain Welsh abbot named Asser.

Ongoing peace is no certainty, however, and Alfred continues to improve his defences. An attack on Rochester proves that Wessex is still far from safe… whilst also confirming the effectiveness of Alfred’s newly fortified towns and mobile armies. The arrival of a huge Norse army puts those defences to the test. Its devious leader does not easily give up and the conflict becomes a trial of will and wits between him and Alfred’s staunch ealdormen, one of whom is Eadwulf’s son, Aethelred.

While Aethelred pursues his role as Lord of the Mercians, Eadwulf settles back in Aros. Old friendships are rekindled, new ones are formed, and a situation in al-Andalus takes Eadwulf, Bjorn and their comrades on another dangerous quest across the sea.

But will this new life be enough to stop Eadwulf missing his children and friends back in Mercia?

My Review:

Millie Thom’s “King of the Anglo Saxons” immerses readers in the captivating world of King Alfred the Great and his struggles against Viking raids. As the fourth and final book in the Sons of Kings series, it delivers a fulfilling conclusion to a remarkable historical saga.

Already a fan of the author’s first three wonderful historical novels in the series (all three of which I’ve previously reviewed on this blog), I must say this one might be my very favorite.

As in the first three volumes, Thom skillfully balances various elements, seamlessly blending the challenges and violence of the time with adventure, romance, and action. Every character, no matter how small their role, contributes to the vibrancy of the story. The author’s meticulous research shines through, taking readers from Mercia and Denmark to the vivid and exotic al-Andalus, allowing them to envision long-forgotten times and people.

One of the book’s many strengths lies in the deep connection between King Alfred and the fictional character Eadwulf of Mercia. Thom expertly weaves historical figures with her fictional creations, creating a seamless blend of fact and fiction that enhances the authenticity of the narrative.

The author’s attention to detail is evident throughout the book, and the inclusion of maps provides a wonderful sense of place and historical evolution. She convincingly conveys the passions and motivations of King Alfred, and readers gain insight into Alfred’s dedication to defending his kingdom, fostering education, and leaving a lasting impact on his people.

“King of the Anglo Saxons” captures the complexity of staying in power and the challenge of maintaining peace in the kingdom amid Viking threats. It explores the evolving dynamics between characters, the interplay between loyalty and conflicting interests, and the personal journeys that unfold throughout the series. Readers are left with an appreciation for the historical significance of King Alfred the Great and his enduring legacy.

No doubt Millie Thom has crafted a wonderful four-book series in Sons of Kings, (four book series) with “King of the Anglo Saxons” providing a befitting and satisfying conclusion. It is a testament to Thom’s storytelling prowess, historical knowledge, and ability to create compelling characters that resonated with this reader. This series is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those seeking an immersive and enlightening journey through a tumultuous period in English history.

Millie Thom, author

To learn more about Millie Thom, please visit her site at Bringing History To Life.

 

   

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Canyon Sacrifice: A National Park Mystery Review

 

 

Overview: Canyon Sacrifice is a mystery thriller novel written by Scott Graham. It was first published in 2013 and is the first book in the series. The story is set in the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, primarily taking place in the iconic Grand Canyon National Park.

The protagonist is archaeologist Chuck Bender, who is drawn into a perilous adventure after he discovers a note left by his friend and fellow archaeologist, Graham Hancock, who has gone missing. As Chuck delves deeper into the mystery, he unravels a dangerous secret hidden within the canyons, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful plot.

The novel incorporates elements of archaeology, Native American history, and the unique challenges faced by those who explore and protect the national parks.

From The Book Cover: “When his new stepdaughter is kidnapped during a visit to the Grand Canyon, archaeologist Chuck Bender faces up to his secret past and his unfamiliar family-man role as he confronts every parent’s worst nightmare—that of a missing child. In Tony Hillerman fashion, Canyon Sacrifice is a gripping page-turner that brings the rugged western landscape the mysterious past of the ancient Anasazi Indians, and the modern Southwest’s ongoing cultural fissures vividly to life. Canyon Sacrifice is the first in the Nation Park Mystery Series.”

My Review: Canyon Sacrifice by Scott Graham is an easy read with mounting tension and a reasonably well-developed plot. The vivid descriptions of the Grand Canyon National Park evoked memories of my own visit to that awesome place.

The plot follows a familiar theme of an unjustly suspected protagonist on the run to prove their innocence.  I appreciated Graham’s use of red herrings, false leads, and action scenes to build suspense. Unfortunately, those positives were often overshadowed by flaws in character development, dialogue, and distractions that failed to move the plot forward.

Too often, the flow of the story was interrupted by the protagonists’ tendency to deliver lengthy archaeological lectures or to conduct extended internal dialogue about family relationships. In particular, the dynamics between Chuck and his wife were problematic, with secrets and a lack of trust creating a sense of disconnect between the two which did nothing to make me particularly like either of them.

Gaps in the storyline kept me guessing and intrigued and sometimes confused. The final chapter falls into cliché territory when the villain provides the information needed to fill in the gaps in the storyline. In my opinion, the ending deserved more attention.

Despite those issues, however, the insights shared by the author are frequently interesting and his knowledge of the subject matter and setting added depth to the narrative, especially as concerns the setting. Overall, Canyon Sacrifice is a good read, particularly for those with an interest in national parks. It may not appeal to all mystery fiction readers, but the premise and setting provide an intriguing perspective for those more interested in national parks or stories set in captivating landscapes than with die-hard mystery fans. Tony Hillerman, however, it is not.

 

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Stolen Obsession by Marlene M. Bell. A Review.

Amazon’s description of Stolen Obsession by Marlene M. Bell: “People die, but legends live on.

New York antiquities appraiser Annalisse Drury recently lost her best friend to murder. The killer’s identity may be linked to her friend’s expensive missing bracelet—a 500-year-old artifact that carries an ancient curse, one that unleashes evil upon any who dare wear the jewelry created for the Persian royal family.

Weeks later, Annalisse sees a matching necklace at a Manhattan gallery opening. She begs the owner to destroy the cursed piece, but her pleas fall on deaf ears—despite the unnatural death that occurs during the opening. With two victims linked to the jewelry, Annalisse is certain she must act.

Desperate, Annalisse enlists the gallery owner’s son to help—even though she’s afraid he’ll break her heart. Wealthy and devastatingly handsome, with a string of bereft women in his wake, Greek playboy Alec Zavos dismisses Annalisse’s concerns—until his parents are ripped from the Zavos family yacht during their ocean voyage near Crete.

Annalisse and Alec race across two oceans to save his mother, feared dead or kidnapped. When the killer changes tactics and goes after Alec behind Annalisse’s back, can her plan to rescue Alec’s mother save them all?

Hold on for a heart-thumping, thrilling adventure through exotic lands in this fast-moving romantic suspense mystery by Marlene M. Bell.”

From the book cover: “A prominent Manhattan antiquities appraiser, Annalisse Drury believes the butchery of her college roommate was a targeted hit—not a mugging. The loss of her closest confidant rips a canyon across her heart and unleased a familiar ache from the past. Detectives have no leads, and Annalisse would do anything to find the killer—even if it makes her a target…At a gallery opening weeks later, Annalisse notices a necklace of horse heads—a relic identical to her roommate’s stolen bracelet. Convinced the jewelry collection carries hideous evil and must be destroyed, Annalisse enlists the help of Alec Zavos. The gallery owner’s womanizing son who has his mother’s ear, but doubts Annalisse’s concerns. A startling second victim hurls Annalise and Alec together in a tempest of pulse-pounding treachery through exotic lands—that move them into an unimaginable future—if Annalisse can survive…”

 

Stolen Obsession by Marlene M. Bell is a blend of murder mystery and romance that offers an easy yet sometimes confusing read. While it leans more towards the romance side than I expected, the story remains engaging for those interested in a mystery with heavy romantic elements. The protagonist, Annalisse, an antiques appraiser, finds herself entangled in a mystery connected to the murder of her best friend. As she teams up with Alec, the rich Greek playboy son of the gallery owner, the plot unfolds with well-designed and unexpected twists and turns.

The story begins with immediate action, which was disorienting at first but quickly found its stride. However, it seemed the relationship between Annalisse and Alec developed too quickly, lacking subtlety. The author manages to introduce surprising twists and uses the Greek backdrop effectively to create an engaging, colorful atmosphere. It was especially vivid for me because I lived in Greece for several years and found the setting descriptions of Greece spot on.

I felt the opening scene of the horrific murder of Annalisse’s roommate needed more background information. It seemed thin though it was a central focus in the story. Details are, as one might expect, revealed gradually, but a prologue or earlier explanation to provide a stronger foundation might have been helpful. Additionally, I found the writing style was somewhat difficult due to odd phrasing and unclear dialogue exchanges that disrupted the flow. A “necklace of horse heads” is an example. They are not actually horse heads but, as you might expect, jewelry pieces resembling horse heads. Proper, thoughtful, informed editing could have addressed these issues.

I have mixed feelings about the romance in the book. I would have appreciated a slower pace giving the characters time to get to know each other before becoming intimate. I am by no means a prude, but once the romantic moments switched to sexual activity, I felt they occurred at inappropriate times and there was, in my opinion, an excessive focus on sexual tension and explicit scenes.

The two main characters, Annalisse and Alec, lacked likability for me. Alec, the Greek playboy character, appeared one-dimensional and overly focused on sex, even in the face of tragedy. Annalisse’s personality and actions didn’t resonate well either, and I struggled to connect with her. Both characters made unwise decisions throughout that created suspense but somehow seemed contrived and unrealistic.

The book’s strengths lie in its global settings, intricate web of clues and misdirection, and the constant suspense surrounding the murders and kidnappings. The story’s concept is interesting, and the potential for a captivating mystery is evident. However, I often felt disconnected from the story and struggled to connect with the characters and the author’s writing style though she has crafted a very good murder mystery.

All in all, “Stolen Obsession” presents an intriguing premise and a well-developed story, blending murder mystery and a big dose of Harlequinesque romance. While it may not appeal to all readers due to issues with character development, dialogue, and pacing, those seeking a romantic-heavy adventurous tale with elements of suspense and tinged with sex may find it enjoyable.

This book was a recommended read from a fellow writer and I have put Marlene M. Bell’s three other books on my ‘to read’ list.

About the Author

“Marlene M. Bell is an award-winning writer, artist, and sheep breeder who resides in wooded East Texas. Her renown sheep photographs grace the covers of many livestock magazines.

The fourth book in the Annalisse Series, Copper Waters, is a New Zealand sheep station mystery with light touches of romance. Stolen Obsession, Spent Identity, and Scattered Legacy, books one through three in the series, have received numerous awards including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery and two FAPA President’s Gold awards. Her work can be found at marlenembell.com.

Marlene also writes children’s books. Her picture book, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team is based on true events with a bottle lamb from Ewephoric ranch. It’s a touching story of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb. Mia and Nattie is suitable reading for ages 3 – 7 years. A Mom’s Choice Gold Award winner and Eric Hoffer Award Grand Prize Short List winner.

Marlene shares her life with her husband and a few dreadfully spoiled horned Dorset sheep: a large Maremma guard dog named Tia, and cats, Hollywood, Leo, and Squeaks. The animals and nature are the cornerstone for Marlene’s books.”

 

 

 

 

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“If the Creek Don’t Rise: Tales from the South”

“A Creole beauty. Eccentric sisters and a black rose. One granny woman and a red button. Church suppers and bingo nights. A poet out of his element. Dreams of Mexico. The shadowy world of thoroughbred horse racing. If the Creek Don’t Rise is a collection of hard-used characters, tangled relationships, family angst, and fortitude. Step into the Deep South and experience the lives and hardships, hopes and dreams, of folk who have nothing except grit—and sometimes love—as their currency. Eighteen tales and six postcard vignettes, highlighted with artwork by Susan Raymond, make this collection a skillful and moving exploration of the commonplace, the hidden, and the unforgettable.

Review: “If the Creek Don’t Rise” is an appealing collection of Southern-based stories that captures the essence of the region. The author’s deep Southern roots lend an authentic voice to the tales woven within this book. Readers are transported into a raw, unfair world filled with relatable characters. The stories evoke vivid sensory experiences, allowing readers to feel, smell, and hear the surroundings while immersing themselves in the characters’ emotions. The honest and genuine dialogue transports readers back to a bygone era, reminiscent of conversations heard in front of a country store on a Saturday morning. The figurative language and storytelling of the South are a perfect fit, and Nancy Hartney skillfully addresses themes of race and gender. This collection is an interesting tapestry of Southern life, painted with diverse tales reflecting the soul of its people. It is an easy and enjoyable read, providing both entertainment and insights into life’s experiences. The characters come to life through the author’s keen understanding, making readers feel as if they truly know them and are present in every scene.

About the author:

author Nancy Hartney

Nancy Hartney author

According to her bio, Nancy Hartney writes short stories and, although she has lived in Texas and California, she is a daughter of the South loving its sweaty beauty and feeling grief about its dark underbelly.

She has contributed to Big Muddy: A Journal of the Mississippi River Valley, The Ocotillo Review, Arkansas Life, The Chronicle of the Horse, Sidelines, and the Horsemen’s Roundup. Her book reviews have appeared in the Ft. Worth Star Telegram, motorcycle touring articles in American Iron, general interest pieces in Do South, Fayetteville Free Weekly, and Ozark Mountaineer. Her fiction has appeared in mid-west regional anthologies while Cactus Country, Frontier Tales, and Rough Country have featured her western tales. She writes for the Washington County Historical Journal Flashback (AR).

 

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National Chocolate Chip Day

Attribution: J.R. Cotner

No, this is not a food blog but today I thought it appropriate to turn it over to a delicious treat, a cookie to be exact. The chocolate chip cookie is a classic American treat that consists of a soft, chewy cookie dough studded with chocolate chips, and today May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Day in the USA. This delicious holiday pays homage to the popular cookie, which is loved by many. It was invented by Ruth Graves Wakefield in the 1930s at the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. Since then, the chocolate chip cookie has become an iconic dessert enjoyed by people of all ages.

What does this have to do with books and writing, you may ask? Here are three delicious novels that mention the holiday or the chocolate chip cookie:

“Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder” by Joanne Fluke: This cozy mystery is the first book in the Hannah Swensen series. The story revolves around a small-town baker named Hannah Swensen, who finds herself investigating a murder that takes place during the annual Lake Eden Chocolate Chip Cookie Contest.

“The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder” by Joanne Fluke: Another book by Joanne Fluke with a similar title, this is the first book in the Hannah Swensen Mysteries series. Hannah Swensen, the owner of a cookie shop, becomes entangled in a murder investigation after one of her customers turns up dead. The story features delectable descriptions of cookies and includes recipes for chocolate chip treats.

“The Lost Art of Mixing” by Erica Bauermeister: While not solely centered around National Chocolate Chip Day, this novel explores the interconnected lives of various characters, including a pastry chef named Chloe, who bakes a mean chocolate chip cookie. The book delves into themes of love, loss, and the joy of food, with occasional mentions of chocolate chip cookies.

Chocolate chip cookies provide a delightful backdrop in these novels for those who enjoy both literature and delectable treats. Enjoy the celebration!

Enough writing for the moment. I’ve made myself hungry.

Enjoy National Chocolate Chip Day!

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The Accidental Spy

The Accidental Spy by David Gardner is an entertaining and engaging read combining both humor and espionage. The story revolves around Harvey Hudson, a history professor who has lost everything and takes a high-tech job for which he is completely unqualified. When he outsources his work to India, he unwittingly becomes embroiled in a Russian cyberattack on the US petroleum industry.

The author skillfully creates a flawed and relatable protagonist in Harvey. Despite Harvey’s personal struggles (and there are many), Gardner manages to inject humor into the story, adding levity to an otherwise tense situation. Gardner weaves an intricate web of twists and turns that kept me guessing (and smiling) until the very end.

The book is a quick and easy read, and the pacing is just right. The writing is clear and concise, and the characters are well-drawn and believable. The Accidental Spy is a must-read for anyone who enjoys espionage thrillers with a touch of humor. Highly recommended!

About the author:

David Gardner grew up on a Wisconsin dairy farm, served in Army Special Forces and earned a Ph.D. in French from the University of Wisconsin. He has taught college and worked as a reporter and in the computer industry.

 He coauthored three programming books for Prentice Hall, wrote dozens of travel articles as well as too many mind-numbing computer manuals before happily turning to fiction: “The Journalist: A Paranormal Thriller,” “The Last Speaker of Skalwegian,” and “The Accidental Spy” (all with Encircle Publications, LLC).

He lives in Massachusetts with his wife, Nancy, who is also a writer. He hikes, bikes, messes with astrophotography and plays the keyboard with no discernible talent whatsoever.

 

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