But Tamara considers Harland a father figure. It’s his son Simon who lights her fire. Simon is the younger twin of Jack Sutcliffe. Jack is destined to inherit the course. He has always been coddled and protected by his father, while Simon has been more stable and independent. Yet when Simon’s child died, he left the country and deserted his financial interests. He is in the process of divorcing Carrie, the slutty wife who should have been keeping an eye on the child when death occurred.

Tamara is a strong woman, having built a successful career after losing a leg in a hit-and-run accident ten years ago. She is a sexual being, but worries about the effect of her “stump” on potential lovers.

Harland dies in a riding incident that is not an accident. Lawyer Elliott Grosse and controller Marta Chudzik both have an interest in the profits of mega-expansion of the course, as does twice-divorced alcoholic Jack. Tamara recommends a smaller, more eco-friendly approach. She tries to comply with Harland’s dying wish. He wanted her to reunite his sons.

There are three other deaths. Everyone on the board seems to have a secret and a motive. Tamara is a target and author Anson does a great job of releasing the clues so the reader can make some educated guesses about motives. Her writing pulls you along to the satisfying conclusion. Thinking about the story afterward, I had some nagging questions. I am especially unsure about the motives and resources of Tamara’s stepfather and brother. And several things about Jack seemed contrived and illogical. But the novel was so engrossing I was not concerned during the initial reading.

The ecological and biological description of the Pine Barrens location was interesting and well-presented, giving the reader a firm sense of place.

The characters were clearly drawn. Lieutenant Theo Kyrillos was a capable detective and the story’s resolution was satisfying. I want to read more by this author. Cris Anson is a talented storyteller.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Lynn Bushey
September 15, 2008