Title: Bitter Night
Author: Jo A. Hiestand
Genre: British Mystery, Mystery
Book Blurb:
When former police detective Michael McLaren is given an old photograph and newspaper article, an inquiry begins that seems straight forward enough: an accident in a millpond. But when it’s apparent that other odd deaths are linked to this, all via the victims receiving a cypher puzzle, the secret meanings become more important. More important still when a fifth death occurs practically on McLaren’s doorstep.
Now it’s five deaths and five puzzles, and McLaren’s determined to solve the mysteries. The only problem is that the trail he’s following entraps not only himself but also his friend, Jamie—traps that might be impossible to escape.
My Review:
One could suggest this is a chilling murder mystery if one wanted to be punny! An investigation unlike any other McLaren mystery. He has to figure out multiple historical murders, challenging even for an experienced cold case solver.
The storyline is complex and well written. There is a definite Hercule Poirot feel about this story. Anything that reminds one of Dame Agatha is a good thing.
The plot keeps the reader guessing the whole way through. If you are a fan of a challenging mystery, then this is the book for you. Only with dogged determination is the mystery able to finally be solved. There could be audible gasping when the conclusion is reached…but no spoilers here.
The characters are well defined and fill the book nicely. The story is balanced between the basic character development, inner workings and a deadly mystery. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket and get a hold of this Bitter Night. It will chill you as you try to figure out just who did it!
My Rating: 5 stars
Buy it Now:
Trade Paper:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Z5iXG8
Ebook:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/4eBjTXG
Giveaway -
Snuggle up with these warming items on a bitter, wintry night and delve into the newest McLaren mystery, Bitter Night!
1. Thick sock slippers
2. Hot chocolate bombs – 1 bomb each of chocolate with marshmallows, peppermint, double chocolate, and salted caramel
3. Mug
4. Battery flickering “flame” candles – 2, battery with timer. Batteries and candle holders not included.
5. Thor’s Hammer necklace pendant
6. Winter scent handmade soap
7. Large scarf/muffler
8. Snack pack of Pepperidge Farm Milano raspberry/chocolate cookies
9. Bitter Night book
Second prize - Enter to win an autographed print book of Bitter Night by Jo A. Hiestand
Third prize - Enter to win an autographed print book of Bitter Night by Jo A. Hiestand
Runs December 2, 2024 - January 19, 2025
Winner will be drawn on January 20, 2025
Author Biography:
Jo A. Hiestand grew up on regular doses of music, books, and Girl Scout camping. She gravitated toward writing in her post-high school years and finally did something sensible about it, graduating from Webster University with a BA degree in English and departmental honors. She writes a British mystery series (the McLaren Mysteries) as well as a Missouri-based cozy mystery series that is grounded in places associated with her camping haunts. The camping is a thing of the past, but the music stayed with her in the form of playing guitar and harpsichord, and singing in a folk group. Jo carves jack o’ lanterns badly and sings loudly. She loves barbecue sauce and ice cream (separately, not together), kilts (especially if men wear them), clouds and stormy skies, and the music of G.F. Handel. You can usually find her pulling mystery plots out of scenery—whether from photographs or the real thing.
Social Media Links:
Booklisti: https://booklisti.com/johiestand
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BritishandUS/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AnglophileJo
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/joahiestand
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/JoHiestand
Website: http://www.johiestand.com
Reviewed by: Mr. N