by Marilyn Meredith &
C.L. Shore
This week we are reposting our reviews of Australian mystery author Diana Hockley’s books, The Naked Room and The Celibate Mouse, as Diana has offered KRL readers something special! Not only can you win e-book copies of both books, but you can also name a character in the new novel, After Ariel, which is expected out mid-2013. What better way to end 2012 then with a couple of great free books & to be a part of a mystery novel! Details at the end of this post. And for those of us who love pet rats, Diana always tries to find some way to include them in her writing!
The Naked Room, Diana Hockley
Review by Marilyn Meredith
The story centers around the kidnapping of a concert pianist who disappears before the rehearsal of an important concert. The author is an artist of words when it comes to showing the anguish Ally, the kidnapped woman, experiences. Set in Australia, the different word usage is an added plus as are the descriptions of the unfamiliar places. 
Hockley does a great job leading the reader on several unexpected paths showing the detectives at work, the emotions of all of Ally’s friends, and eventual unveiling of her enemies. A secret Ally’s mother kept from her is brought out in the open as it is the only way that Ally may be saved. Beautifully written, there are many surprises along the way, including murder.
Highly recommended to those who like to read unusual mysteries set in far-away places. This one is a definite page-turner.
To enter for a chance to win a copy of The Naked Room, simply email KRL at life@kingsriverlife.com with the subject line “Room”, or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen next Saturday, March 12, 2011.
The Celibate Mouse
Review by C.L. Shore
Readers will sympathize with Senior Sergeant Susan Prescott as she tries to avoid stress after losing a constable on the force to violence. Her attempt to find peace in a small village is shattered when a man is murdered at a sheepdog championship. Soon after, an elderly woman is killed and several others in town, including Susan herself, find themselves victims of violent attacks. Like it or not, Susan finds herself helping the relatives of the first victims to find the attacker.
In addition to her professional challenges, Susan’s second husband leaves her and one of her twin daughters is estranged. Her first husband, – and father of her twins, resurfaces in her life, and moves in to guard Susan and daughter Marli from the actions of someone who has a mission to do away with anyone who will expose him. The bruises on Susan’s neck attest to the unknown assailant’s determination. However, David’s status with the local police reinforces his ability to protect.
In The Celibate Mouse, Diana Hockley has provided the reader with multiple points of view that enrich the plot. Once into the story, you won’t want to put it down. The path to exposing the murderer and the sexual tension between Susan and David will keep you turning pages. Mystery lovers will want to add this book to their list.
To enter to win e-book copies of both books in the series, simply email KRL at life@kingsriverlife[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line “Diana”, or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen January 5, 2013. To enter to name a character in Diana’s next book–instructions are the same as above, but instead put “Character” in the subject line.
Want to know how to see your ad like this at the end of an article? Email KRL at life@kingsriverlife[dot]com by replacing the [dot] for more info. 10% of all ad sales goes to animal rescue.
Very nice reviews. These sound interesting.
We have a winner
Lorie Ham, KRL Publisher