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Neema Mystery #2
The Only Clue
Gorillas that communicate in sign language aren’t exactly commonplace, so when Dr. Grace McKenna reluctantly hosts the first Open House at her research center, half the town of Evansburg, Washington shows up to gawk. The next morning, Grace discovers that her worst nightmare has come true. All three apes—Gumu, Neema, and baby Kanoni—have vanished, leaving behind only one clue: a huge pool of blood.
Grace is frantic. She hopes the apes are simply roaming the nearby forests. If the press learns of her gorillas’ disappearance, the county will revoke her permit to keep the apes.
Detective Matthew Finn is just as sure that a criminal is at work. He risks his job for Grace by agreeing to keep the disappearance secret while doing his best to find the ape-napper or, more likely, the ape killer. Has the maniac who murdered Grace’s first gorilla returned? Have Grace’s trusted staff members, who belong to the controversial Animal Rights Union, ‘liberated’ them? Or have exotic animal dealers taken the valuable gorillas to sell on the illegal wildlife market?
Grace is frantic. She hopes the apes are simply roaming the nearby forests. If the press learns of her gorillas’ disappearance, the county will revoke her permit to keep the apes.
Detective Matthew Finn is just as sure that a criminal is at work. He risks his job for Grace by agreeing to keep the disappearance secret while doing his best to find the ape-napper or, more likely, the ape killer. Has the maniac who murdered Grace’s first gorilla returned? Have Grace’s trusted staff members, who belong to the controversial Animal Rights Union, ‘liberated’ them? Or have exotic animal dealers taken the valuable gorillas to sell on the illegal wildlife market?
316 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2013
505 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Beason
26 books193 followersPamela Beason lives in the Pacific Northwest, where she writes novels and screenplays and works as a private investigator. When she's not on the job, she explores the natural world on foot, in cross-country skis, in her kayak, or underwater scuba diving.
Beason is the author of nine full-length fiction works: THE ONLY WITNESS, THE ONLY CLUE (books 1 and 2 of the Neema Mysteries); SHAKEN, CALL OF THE JAGUAR (romantic suspense novels), ENDANGERED, BEAR BAIT, and UNDERCURRENTS in the Summer "Sam" Westin series; and RACE WITH DANGER and RACE TO TRUTH, books 1 and 2 of a YA Run for Your Life adventure trilogy. She also wrote the nonfiction titles, SAVE YOUR MONEY, YOUR SANITY, AND OUR PLANET and SO YOU WANT TO BE A PI?. Pam's writing has earned her multiple prizes, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two First Place prizes and two Grand Prizes in the Chanticleer Book Reviews Contest, and an Honorable Mention in a Library Journal contest.
As an avid outdoorswoman and animal lover, Beason challenges the human assumption that we are the superior species. Drifting through life is not enough; you have to live it.
Pamela blogs and tweets about writing, outdoor adventures, and the value of being present in the moment. She looks forward to connecting with readers on her Twitter, Goodreads Page or Blog.
Beason is the author of nine full-length fiction works: THE ONLY WITNESS, THE ONLY CLUE (books 1 and 2 of the Neema Mysteries); SHAKEN, CALL OF THE JAGUAR (romantic suspense novels), ENDANGERED, BEAR BAIT, and UNDERCURRENTS in the Summer "Sam" Westin series; and RACE WITH DANGER and RACE TO TRUTH, books 1 and 2 of a YA Run for Your Life adventure trilogy. She also wrote the nonfiction titles, SAVE YOUR MONEY, YOUR SANITY, AND OUR PLANET and SO YOU WANT TO BE A PI?. Pam's writing has earned her multiple prizes, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two First Place prizes and two Grand Prizes in the Chanticleer Book Reviews Contest, and an Honorable Mention in a Library Journal contest.
As an avid outdoorswoman and animal lover, Beason challenges the human assumption that we are the superior species. Drifting through life is not enough; you have to live it.
Pamela blogs and tweets about writing, outdoor adventures, and the value of being present in the moment. She looks forward to connecting with readers on her Twitter, Goodreads Page or Blog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 10, 2019
3 stars
While I appreciated the story, the first 2/3 of the book were sluggish and repetitive. The conclusion was better. The web of characters was difficult to follow and untangle. As a lover of all things animal, the characterization and sentiments of the gorillas adds a star (although they seem to take backstage).
While I appreciated the story, the first 2/3 of the book were sluggish and repetitive. The conclusion was better. The web of characters was difficult to follow and untangle. As a lover of all things animal, the characterization and sentiments of the gorillas adds a star (although they seem to take backstage).
August 30, 2014
I received a free copy of “The Only Clue” through Goodreads First Reads. I found this mystery entertaining with some unexpected plot twists. The involvement of the apes made for a novel story line. I liked most of the characters, although found Finn’s lack of trust in Grace’s staff a bit annoying. I also found the existence of the research center so far removed from the host university a bit far fetched. But overall it was a good read.
May 10, 2021
The character of Neema the signing gorilla is based on the real-life Koko, and Neema certainly has a tough time of it in The Only Clue. She's the loving new mother of baby Kanoni and is happy in her life with her mate Gumu. All that is shattered when thieves break into Dr. Grace McKenna's barn. The pool of blood that's the only clue left behind isn't a very good one. Is it gorilla blood? Which gorilla? Could it even be human blood? It takes time to find out, and time is one thing that Dr. Grace McKenna does not have. There are too many people in charge who really don't have a clue about the work she's doing or about the animals she is in charge of. They are constantly on the lookout for the tiniest thing that will allow them to boot her and her animals out of their county. This really spotlights how tough it is for many scientists who have to wrestle for permits and funding.
Another thing that The Only Clue does an excellent job of bringing attention to is that of the illegal wildlife trade. Why does someone with the right amount of money need to raise a tiger in their big-city apartment? Why do certain countries' traditional medicines seem to insist on the extinction of many animal species? I mean... I adore meerkats, but I don't want a family of them in my backyard. The lengths to which these illegal traders will go to get their hands on money are both chilling and disgusting, and Beason brings it right out in the open without being overly graphic.
As much as I enjoyed the first Neema mystery, The Only Witness, this second book fell flat for me. First, there were Grace's overbearing parents. You know the type, the parents who don't like the career their child has chosen and never miss an opportunity to undermine them? If there's a contest for "I'm So Over Them" Characters, overbearing, judgy parents would rank in my top three. Then there was a bit of deus ex machina at the end to save the day for one of the plot lines, a plotline that I wondered how the author was going to resolve.
But the thing that bothered me the most was poor Neema. She went through emotional hell in this book, and even though there is just one more book in the Neema series, I'm going to leave it here at book two where all is right in her world once again. It's just not right to keep torturing the poor ape.
Another thing that The Only Clue does an excellent job of bringing attention to is that of the illegal wildlife trade. Why does someone with the right amount of money need to raise a tiger in their big-city apartment? Why do certain countries' traditional medicines seem to insist on the extinction of many animal species? I mean... I adore meerkats, but I don't want a family of them in my backyard. The lengths to which these illegal traders will go to get their hands on money are both chilling and disgusting, and Beason brings it right out in the open without being overly graphic.
As much as I enjoyed the first Neema mystery, The Only Witness, this second book fell flat for me. First, there were Grace's overbearing parents. You know the type, the parents who don't like the career their child has chosen and never miss an opportunity to undermine them? If there's a contest for "I'm So Over Them" Characters, overbearing, judgy parents would rank in my top three. Then there was a bit of deus ex machina at the end to save the day for one of the plot lines, a plotline that I wondered how the author was going to resolve.
But the thing that bothered me the most was poor Neema. She went through emotional hell in this book, and even though there is just one more book in the Neema series, I'm going to leave it here at book two where all is right in her world once again. It's just not right to keep torturing the poor ape.
February 12, 2018
Good book!
Good book! These are the only books I've read by Pamela Beason; but after reading them, I'm inclined to find another book of hers to read. Towards the middle of the book, it was maybe a little easier to put down than the first Neema book; but then it grabs your attention towards the end when everything comes together. Both the #1 and #2 books are very good, very well-written books.
Good book! These are the only books I've read by Pamela Beason; but after reading them, I'm inclined to find another book of hers to read. Towards the middle of the book, it was maybe a little easier to put down than the first Neema book; but then it grabs your attention towards the end when everything comes together. Both the #1 and #2 books are very good, very well-written books.
August 15, 2017
Complex, tense, detective story
When you combine a detective with signing Gorrilas who paint beautifully the results are predictably interesting. In this case, written with a flair for characters, the story draws you in and ends with a life-saving race to the airport. The second in the Neema series is almost the equal of the first and earns its five stars.
When you combine a detective with signing Gorrilas who paint beautifully the results are predictably interesting. In this case, written with a flair for characters, the story draws you in and ends with a life-saving race to the airport. The second in the Neema series is almost the equal of the first and earns its five stars.
January 10, 2020
I really loved the gorilla story line.
Neema really is lost without her partner Gumu who has been kidnapped or killed. Grace the researcher is trying to find Gumu, trying to console Neema and trying to care for baby Kanoni who has been rejected by Neema.
And then there are the people stories and the investigation.
Neema really is lost without her partner Gumu who has been kidnapped or killed. Grace the researcher is trying to find Gumu, trying to console Neema and trying to care for baby Kanoni who has been rejected by Neema.
And then there are the people stories and the investigation.
August 21, 2020
This book's predecessor (The Only WItness) hooked me totally on this author and her focus on the signing gorilla. This book did not disappoint. Beason writes well, and of a fascinating topic. Her characters are believable, the side stories engaging, and the primary plot very intriguing. The gorillas of course are a delight. I look forward to the next one.
January 21, 2022
I love this series. The characters, especially the gorillas are entertaining. Read the series in order to avoid spoilers. Dect. Finn already has too much on his plate when Dr. McKenna's parents show up (without invitation or warning) and move into his guestroom. They make the whole kidnapping situation worse by undermining Graces' confidence and pushing her cheating slime ball ex-lover on her.
December 3, 2017
Well-written suspense. The plot is driven by suspense about whether all three gorillas will survive a variety of life-threatening circumstances. As in all of Beason's mysteries, the reader is never sure which characters to suspect, and which to trust.
February 19, 2018
Loved the Interaction between Grace and the gorrilas
The troubled story line of people skepticism of primate intelligence is real. We talk to our pets and many understand is and respond to our moods, Found the actions of the gorillas intreglng
The troubled story line of people skepticism of primate intelligence is real. We talk to our pets and many understand is and respond to our moods, Found the actions of the gorillas intreglng
July 30, 2018
An awesome read great following to the first book would definitely recommend.
An awesome conclusion to book one would definitely recommend. Will keep you in suspense, it's a great read that will keep you wanting more.
An awesome conclusion to book one would definitely recommend. Will keep you in suspense, it's a great read that will keep you wanting more.
October 18, 2019
Not a very good book.
Did not finish this book, it is full of very bad language. The author should probably clean up her own thoughts before she writes another book. Many people don't like that kind of books.
Did not finish this book, it is full of very bad language. The author should probably clean up her own thoughts before she writes another book. Many people don't like that kind of books.
October 28, 2019
Absolutely awesome read
Luved the first book and this one was even better excellent story can't wait for the last one I'm betting its going to be better . Thank you for being excellent writer
Robin Dawson
Luved the first book and this one was even better excellent story can't wait for the last one I'm betting its going to be better . Thank you for being excellent writer
Robin Dawson
November 3, 2019
Captivating
Definitely recommend this book and author. I am looking forward to reading more. The storyline is not only believable but captivating. The characters come to life. You feel like a part of the book.
Definitely recommend this book and author. I am looking forward to reading more. The storyline is not only believable but captivating. The characters come to life. You feel like a part of the book.
December 10, 2019
Quite good
Haven't read the first one, but no issues getting into and enjoying this one. Interesting characters. Only thing that bugged me is that I didn't find it fully credible that fish and wildlife wouldn't check their traps more often.
Haven't read the first one, but no issues getting into and enjoying this one. Interesting characters. Only thing that bugged me is that I didn't find it fully credible that fish and wildlife wouldn't check their traps more often.
February 8, 2020
An unusual animal related mystery
The facts revolving around using sign language with gorillas was extremely interesting and certainly added a uniqueness to this mystery. I look forward to reading the next in this series.
The facts revolving around using sign language with gorillas was extremely interesting and certainly added a uniqueness to this mystery. I look forward to reading the next in this series.
April 13, 2024
I was suprised
I have read several of Pamela Beason's books, I have loved everyone. She has a way of weaving words, bringing out the unsuspected, leading you into the webbed plot. I hope she becomes one of your favorites too.
I have read several of Pamela Beason's books, I have loved everyone. She has a way of weaving words, bringing out the unsuspected, leading you into the webbed plot. I hope she becomes one of your favorites too.
August 24, 2024
I”ve almost read all of Pamela Beason’s books. I wish there were more. She’s an author who doesn’t need blood and gore on every page to make her books riveting. Her writing is wonderful and her characters walk off the pages toward you.
May 4, 2025
This book was really good. I found it dragged in some spots but really made up for it in others. The characters were really interesting and the story was awesome. I can't wait to read another book by Pamela Beason.
June 29, 2025
A mystery with a twist
When I started to read book 1 of the Neema series, I thought it would be really dumb but I was wrong! The mystery was well woven with the difficulties of caring for gorillas and the terrible things humans visit on animals. I can't wait for the next book!
When I started to read book 1 of the Neema series, I thought it would be really dumb but I was wrong! The mystery was well woven with the difficulties of caring for gorillas and the terrible things humans visit on animals. I can't wait for the next book!
December 28, 2017
"Liked it"
July 19, 2018
Bring on book 3
I loved this series and can't wait for the next book comes out. The characters are people you can relate to.
I loved this series and can't wait for the next book comes out. The characters are people you can relate to.
September 9, 2018
Better than book One of series.
Was hoping for more action from Neema in the form of but Grace took up the gauntlet for this book
Was hoping for more action from Neema in the form of but Grace took up the gauntlet for this book
October 25, 2019
Not a good read
Story plot is too simple minded and extreme. The main character has a possessive tendency, selfish and annoying. Not a good role model, neither a good read.
Story plot is too simple minded and extreme. The main character has a possessive tendency, selfish and annoying. Not a good role model, neither a good read.
November 1, 2019
Excellent Story
Beason writes from her heart.. Her characters are so real and believable, both human and animal.. The suspense is palpable..
Beason writes from her heart.. Her characters are so real and believable, both human and animal.. The suspense is palpable..
December 1, 2019
Very good book with interesting characters.
February 15, 2020
Unique
I loved this book. The topic was a complete surprise to me when I started reading it. Very well written.
I loved this book. The topic was a complete surprise to me when I started reading it. Very well written.
February 21, 2020
Did not finish. Actually I couldn’t get into it at all!
May 12, 2020
This one didn’t enthrall me as much as the first but still an enjoyable read. So glad I found this series.
May 15, 2020
Good mystery with a moral
Who died big question? Wild animals sales. Wild animals bought and sold. Enterprising low life’s looking for a quick buck.
Who died big question? Wild animals sales. Wild animals bought and sold. Enterprising low life’s looking for a quick buck.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews