Wow! I can breathe again. I’m reading (well, listening to) this series in a mixed-up order, but each book has been so full, with a riveting story, twisted plot, and engaging characters.
Set near the Mississippi River, the story involves likable characters amplified by an amazing vocal performance by Rachel Dulude. I’ve been listening to books more often nowadays. Some, like this one, are SO well done! (Seriously, I’ve listened to a few that I’d rather hear a computer voice than the narrator.) Rachel Dulude’s performance enhances the book like cream cheese icing on a red velvet cake.
And this book is already that scrumptious. The story amps up from chapter 1 and only gives a few chances to breathe as it progresses. I teared up and even laughed out loud, but mostly, I just braced myself as Emma and Sam tracked through confusing clues while dodging stalkers and even bullets.
Speaking of the characters, I really liked Emma. At first meet, I got the impression of a little slip of a thing ill-equipped to step beyond her safe haven of documenting historical details and leading tours. Boy, was I wrong! Sure, she has a passion for history, but she enjoys archeology and investigating it as much as sharing it. And the stubborn streak in this gal can substitute for a Glock anytime a weapon is needed.
Her counterpart, Sam, isn’t quite as stubborn, but really close. He’s a little kinder about it, but resolute, especially when it comes to trying to keep Emma safe. . . Safe being a relative term.
Romantic suspense and mystery lovers will love this winning story!
Here’s a little more about it:
Natchez Trace Ranger and historian Emma Winters hoped never to see Sam Ryker again after she broke off her engagement to him. But when shots are fired at her at a historical landmark just off the Natchez Trace, she’s forced to work alongside Sam as the Natchez Trace law enforcement district ranger in the ensuing investigation. To complicate matters, Emma has acquired a delusional secret admirer who is determined to have her as his own. Sam is merely an obstruction, one which must be removed.
Sam knows that he has failed Emma in the past and he doesn’t intend to let her down again. Especially since her life is on the line. As the threads of the investigation cross and tangle with their own personal history, Sam and Emma have a chance to discover the truth, not only about the victim but about what went wrong in their relationship.
Marji Laine 