American/Cozy Mysteries

Claire and Russ' difficulties aside, however, this book is also a painful and penetrating look at the crumbling economy of many small towns, in this case Claire's particular small town, but it's a situation uncomfortably mirrored all over the country. The economy of Miller's Kill has long been tied to logging, and now that smaller operations can no longer turn a profit, big ones are moving in, without the local roots or loyalties. There's a paper factory in town whose work can now be outsourced, and of course, there's also the ecologically minded who object to logging of any kind. Each of Spencer-Fleming's books has taken a close look at contemporary issues - her first, adoption; her second, homosexuality; her third, child vaccinations; but this novel seems to tackle the most compelling issue she's written about to date. Spencer-Fleming provides a nuanced look at all sides; I suppose if she was able to offer a solution she should probably be running for president instead of writing novels.

This is not to say that this book is only a polemic, because it's not. Like Sara Paretsky (a Spencer-Fleming fan herself), this is another author who is able to combine character development, action, and a serious message. I'm not sure what else a reader could ask for - beautiful prose? It's here too. I also enjoy the fact that with each novel, this talented author is willing to take a slightly different approach. I think it keeps this series fresh and compelling - the next installment can't come soon enough.