by Marilyn Meredith
Details at the end of this review on how to enter to win an ebook copy of After Ariel, along with a link to purchase the book. And for pet rat fans, they do have a part in this book as with all of Diana’s books.
I’m not sure where to begin with this review of After Ariel–there are so many good things to say.
First, there is a glossary of Australian slang at the front of the book. It was fun reading. However, I didn’t find it necessary in order to understand the outstanding dialogue.
Every character is skillfully drawn, with enough background to understand them, their personality and motives. And I can’t leave out the settings, wherever each character is during a scene, the reader is able to see where things are happening as though watching a movie.
This most compelling tale begins with the death of a teenage girl, Ariel, who meets an intriguing fellow, invites him to her home, where a game leads to her death.
The heroine of this story, Pam Miller is a successful flautist in the world of classical music despite a successful, though nearly career ending, bout with stage-fright. It is her journey through a nightmarish part of her life is the main one we’re following in this thriller.
However, there are many other important characters who have large parts including, Pam’s cousin, Marigold, called “Goldie” a famous photographer, about to go off on a new and promising assignment.
Deputy Inspector Susan Prescott is another strong female character. While having to investigate the murder of an unidentified young woman, she is also stressing because her husband has been assigned to a mysterious and probably dangerous job.
As the story progresses, a series of incidents reveal that someone dangerous is closing in on Pamela, culminating in a horrifying discovery. And yes, there’s a romance, but it plays a much smaller role than the suspenseful drama that plays out through the investigation of two horrible murders.
Because to give any other clues to the plot might be a spoiler, I’ll end with these words–this is a wonderfully written page-turner.
To enter to win an ebook copy of After Ariel, simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line “Ariel,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen December 20, 2014. U.S. residents only. If entering via email please include your mailing address, and if via comment please include your email address.
Check out other mystery articles, reviews, book giveaways & short stories in our mystery section.
Click on this link to purchase this book.
I’ve seen this book listed elsewhere, but haven’t had a chance to read it yet. It sounds like I have yet another book to add to my to-read list for next year!
We have a winner
Lorie Ham, KRL Publisher