Thursday, June 30, 2011

Review - The Lightkeeper's Ball

Mercy Falls Series - Book Three
By Colleen Coble

Olivia Stewart is shocked to learn of her sister Eleanor's death. Not convinced that Eleanor committed suicide, Olivia travels from New York City to Mercy Falls, CA to investigate. She travels using her official title, Lady Devonworth, and poses as a Stewart family friend. She is fairly certain that Eleanor's fiance, Harrison Bennett, is responsible for her death. Her fears are confirmed after finding a letter from her late father warning Eleanor not to have any contact with Harrison or his father. As she tries to unearth clues, Olivia finds herself in harm's way a number of times. Clearly whoever killed Eleanor wants Olivia dead as well.

Harrison Bennett wants nothing to do with any of the Stewart women. His father arranged the marriage with Eleanor to secure a business deal. He finds himself attracted to the Lady Devonworth, but cannot understand her aloof attitude and meddlesome questions. His interests lie not in his father's business but in studying flight and developing his flying machine.

Eventually, though, Harrison and Olivia call a truce and begin to trust one another. Together they begin to investigate the odd events at the Stewart mansion. Imagine what happens when her real identity is revealed at the Lightkeeper's Ball...even Harrison doesn't know who she really is.

Ms. Coble shares a vivid turn of the 20th century adventure that keeps the reader guessing. About the time I thought I figured out who the killer was, events turn inside out and there's yet a new piece to the puzzle. I wasn't expecting a mystery with this one, but it was a pleasant surprise. Although this is the third book in the Mercy Falls Series, it can stand alone. I prefer this; the reader doesn't have to read the first two books to enjoy this one. Rich details and engaging characters create a happy mix and a great story.

This book was given to me courtesy of the Amazon Vine review program. No compensation was received. 

Do you like mysteries? What do you like to read for fun?

Happy weekend!
Karen

16 comments :

  1. I don't usually read mysteries, but this does sound good. Thanks for sharing!

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  2. I enjoy mysteries every once in awhile. Lately I've been reading a lot of non-fiction and memoirs.

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  3. Sounds like a good one for me to put on the list for Cheryl. Thanks.

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  4. I like mysteries. My favorite read when I was a girl was Nancy Drew.

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  5. Victoria,
    Now see, I would have taken you for a mystery gal! Oh well. :)

    Talli,
    I am not a super mystery fan but I like how this was done, not taken over by the mystery aspect. It was a nice balance, and one I wasn't expecting.

    Warren,
    She just might enjoy it! Thanks for coming by.

    Cecelia,
    I think you might like this one. No blood and guts or anything, just keeps you wondering.

    Blessings,
    Karen

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  6. I don't usually read mysteries either, but I'd pick this up!

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  7. The cover is gorgeous and the story sounds right up my alley! :O)

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  8. I like the idea that, though one of a series, the book can stand alone. That way I wouldn't feel tied to the whole series if I didn't get a chance to read them all. Another interesting review--thanks!

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  9. I love to read thrillers, mysteries and romance, all the better if the three are rolled into one. My first testing of the waters was at age 10 with Victoria Holt's "Mistress of Mellyn." I was hooked!

    This sounds like a great read!

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  10. Lydia,
    You just might like this one. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, and was pleasantly surprised!

    Diane,
    I know, the cover is great, isn't it? I think you might enjoy this one. :)

    Kenda,
    Yes, I agree - a stand alone book is such a great thing! Don't mind a series, but I hate playing catch up. Just want to savor the story!

    Lisa,
    I thought as much! Somehow your personality reflects that, a good thing, I think! :)

    Happy weekend,
    Karen

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  11. I enjoy mysteries a lot, and this one sounds cool. Would love to be ensnared by its gripping story. Thanks for a great review.

    Have a lovely weekend.

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  12. Thanks for this review Karen. What do I like to read for fun?? Not much... probably a John Grisham book or something...

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  13. Rachna,
    I was indeed snared by this one! You are more than welcome to the review!

    Marja,
    You are welcome! I should check out your Goodreads list. :)

    Happy weekend,
    Karen

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  14. I love a good mystery. Keeps the brain engaged in the story. It doesn't have to be a Whodunit, as long as the reader is kept guessing what will happen next.

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  15. This one sounds divine! I love mysteries woven into a romance, or romance snuck into a mystery. My favorite is Agatha Christy; we read them at night before bed. She always throws a romance in her stories.

    Did you know that mystery is the fave genre of pastors and their wives? We must like to see justice done, or murder. Ahahahaaaaaa!!!

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  16. I like murder mysteries! This is a very nice review. Thanks.

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