In the Shadows

The Outsiders #1

by Susan Finlay

There is a stranger amongst the residents of the cave-riddled village of Reynier, France. Suspicious, they believe there's only one reason Maurelle Dupre would be lurking in their small village—she's a gypsy, a thief. But a former Chicago detective turned mystery author, Dave Martin, who happens to be visiting his French grandmother, isn't so sure about the beautiful stranger when happenstance causes them to meet. He wonders why she seems so frightened and distrustful. He knows he shouldn’t get involved. The last time he trusted a woman in distress, the consequences resulted in the loss of his detective’s shield and his wife. But, as always, the detective in him can't seem to leave well enough alone.

However, what Dave couldn't know is how persuading Maurelle to reveal herself will ultimately unveil something far worse than mere theft.

In the Shadows is a story of trust, belonging, and murder.

Genres: Mystery, Amazon

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 30, 2013

Reviews

[Dean Lombardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recommended for lovers of exotic mysteries, In the Shadows by Susan Finlay takes readers back and forth between the charm of a cave-dimpled French countryside to the more frenetically painted London and its suburbs, the latter where a young man has been murdered and many dark secrets lay buried. Evidence points to a gypsy woman, but former Chicago detective Dave Martin believes there is more to the case than meets the eye. Dave must wrestle between his feelings for (and faith in) the beautiful suspect and the memory of having been deceived earlier in his life. The story builds to an excellent crescendo, with author Finlay incorporating a few ticking clocks that drive the action and pace. There were a few questionable details but they weren't so disruptive that they darkened my enjoyment of In the Shadows, a satisfying, take-me-away mystery adventure.

[LaVerne Clarke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good read

Loved the two older gals a lot of spunk, the story was ok
Held my interests would have liked a little more to the ending was cut off with just a kiss I would have liked it to go a bit farther but overall was a good story

[Mary Sue Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Good Mystery

This was an enjoyable read. I did guess who the murderer was which spoiled it a bit. I was a bit disappointed with the ending. However, I loved the two older women characters.

[Lois Kirby · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Shadows

Well written mystery and enjoyable development of the characters. A few too many complications not always believable but it did add to the plot line. Dave's dedication to finding the truth on Maura's behalf was interesting . I did enjoy as it was an easy read.

[Paula Reiber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

As this was my first free book and not an author I had read before, I was skeptical of the quality. I was pleased I made this choice and would recommend it.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clever plot and endearing characters

A mystery with multiple subplots, this story keeps you in suspense throughout. In tandem with trying to solve the murder of a troubled teen, Dave, a former detective, navigates complicated romantic and familial relationships.

The author describes picturesque scenes and quaint French villages filled with gossipy residents. Against this charming backdrop, Dave searches for answers to help a woman he barely knows, hoping his belief in her innocence is not misguided, reminiscent of a past mistake that continues to haunt him.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good mystery.

I did totally enjoy this book. There was a surprise at the ending. There were lots of great characters to get to know. I think the author needs a couple more read throughs to catch all the typos and errors, but overall a very pleasant read. I will read more of her books.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best of the series. I read the first three books of the series and must admit, I like In the Shadows the best. The series does not have to be read in order because the author copies pieces from the previous book to keep you up to date which some, like me, find annoying. Luckily as the first book in the series, it did not have to rely on this device. The story takes place in the small fictional french town of Reynier, one that is the visual part of a tremendous cave system. The main characters are Maurelle, a mysterious woman with a past, Dave, an American ex-policeman visiting his grandmother, the towns people, all of whom are suspicious of outsiders, some really catty women (who will infuriate you), and a murder victim. That is to just set the scene. There is a love interest, a woman scorned, dirty tricks, a dog, lots of caves, deception,lies, intrigue and finally, a twist. As I don't want to give the story or plot away, I will end my review here with a Reaganesque take; "It is a pretty darn good read!" Well, not as good as Red October, but still better than expected.

[bex · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the characters and the mystery was interesting, once it got going. However, it felt slow and spent a lot of time setting things up and a lot less on the investigation elements itself. So be sure you're prepared for a slower pace going in--something a bit different than usual also.