Murder by the Clock

Rachel Christie Mystery #1

by Sabena Stone

Murder unsettles the citizens of Stone City, a small town at the base of the Appalachians. It's a crime the town hasn't seen in over twenty years and it's up to Rachel Christie, a struggling private detective, to solve the grisly murder. Rachel survives threats from the Sheriff, anonymous threats on her life and an attempt to kill her before facing the murderer's gun.After six months of struggling and running out of money, she finally has a case. A case that no one wants solved. A case that she must solve or return to the life which gave her nightmares.A stand-alone murder mystery, this is number 1 in the Rachel Christie Mystery detective series.

286 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 28, 2012

Reviews

[J.C. Wing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This debut novel from Sabena Stone kicks off a promising series about a young woman named Rachel Christie, (just call her Ray) with a difficult past struggling to make a name for herself as a private investigator in a small town in North Carolina. The chief of police doesn't like her much, although she is working at a peaceable professional relationship with the Deputy, and with the help of her partner, young Cody, she is getting to know the rest of the residents in small Stone City.

In this book the reader gets a peek at Rachel's surprisingly traumatic previous life and the demons she's brought with her from her home in Texas. This sleuth is feminine and strong, imperfect and somewhat impetuous, all of which makes her human and likable.

This mystery kept me guessing. I thought I'd figured it out, then Stone threw in another character that made me feel less sure of my detective skills. It was not a simple who done it. It made me second guess myself and that, in my opinion, is the best kind of mystery.

Well plotted and fun to read. I will be following Ray in her further adventures.

[Stephen Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't normally read mysteries because I can't find ones that hold my attention like Sue Grafton's Stories. That's why it was refreshing to read this book. Fans of mystery writers such as Sue Grafton and J.D. Robb will enjoy reading this book. The first in a series of mysteries, I was surprised that I had read the first 50 pages with out even realizing it. It's a fast paced page turner that keeps you engaged every step of the way with intrigue. The main character Rachael Christie throws herself into solving a murder that puts her into danger. Rachael is extremely similar to the Character Kinsey Millhone from the Sue Grafton Alphabet series books. She is very likable and draws the reader in to the story. Very well written with dry humor that lightens the tension when needed most.

[Randy Mixter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really didn't know what to expect when I started reading this novel. I love a good mystery and the title and description of this book intrigued me. It didn't take long for the story to grab my attention, and once it had me it would not let go. I read the book in one sitting. Why? Because I had to find out how it ended. That is the true test of a mystery novel, to have the ability to keep the reader turning the pages. Well written and very entertaining. I will definitely be reading more from this author.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not one to usually read mysteries but I'm so glad I am across this book. The book holds you from the first page and doesn’t let go. It's a fast-paced novel but interlaced with touches of humour and romance which help make this a very complete storyline. The main character is very likeable and the plot had me guessing to the end. This is clearly an accomplished writer with a great deal of talent - a fantastic book and I'm off to check out the others in the series. Highly recommend.

[Nancy]

I didn't actually finish it. Just not doing it for me.