Broken Promise Land, the (Paperback)

Not to worry! I read "Broken Promise Land" in less than 24 hours because the characters and situations were interesting and the writing was just fine. This is the Muller I've come to expect. One of the best in this very fine series.

P.S. If you're new to Muller, I URGE you to read her books in order. She's very careful about not giving away previous mysteries, but the characters really do grow and develop over time in these books. Additionally, there are plot developments that I would not want to have spoiled for me. Unlike authors who take a few books until they hit their stride, Muller was good from the very first Sharon McCone book, "Edwin of the Iron Shoes". Even though the series began in the 1970's, the older ones are suprisingly fresh. If you like character-driven mysteries with strong women at the center, you'll like this series.

THE BROKEN PROMISE LAND is, in my opinion, one of the better stories in the series so far. Regular readers will enjoy the update on changes taking place in McCone's life and in the lives of other familiar characters that surround her. Beyond that, though, this is one of Ms. Muller's better plots. Both McCone and her current beau, Hy Ripinsky, get drawn into the action when her brother-in-law, Ricky Savage, who is a genuine country music star, becomes involved with a stalker. From there, the action is fast-paced, both in terms of the mystery and the personal turmoil it entails for McCone and some of her friends and family members.

I have just two minor problems with this story (if you don't want to know anything about what happens in the book you should skip this paragraph). First, I thought that Ricky falling out of his marriage and directly into the welcoming arms of Rae a bit too easy, too convenient. It keeps Ricky in the mix and gives Charlotte an easy entree for future stories, but it was just too pat to suit me. Second, I thought the the events in the final moments, when everything finally becomes clear and the reader is all set for the big final showdown, was a letdown. Too quick and too easy an end after all the effort to uncover the wacko stalker.

THE BROKEN PROMISE LAND is a book that will please and entertain McCone fans, but beyond that it's a good mystery that a casual reader will also find engrossing. Once you get going, it's one you won't easily put down. I've given it a strong four stars and I recommend it. Give it a try.