Danger in the Desert

Cozy Mysteries on the Open Road #3

by CeeCee James

When Clara Fitzwater and her quirky crew roll into Cactus Creek in their trusty van, Bread Loaf, they’re expecting a lighthearted escape, cheering on her old theater pal Archie in his starring role in The Desert Deception. But the weathered Cactus Playhouse has other plans. Flickering lights, eerie creaks, and whispers of a ghost tied to the stage’s shadowy past hint at more than just faulty wiring. As opening night looms, Clara’s gut tells her someone, or something, is pulling strings behind the scenes. Is it Old Man Pritchard, the long-dead owner, haunting the boards? Or a flesh-and-blood saboteur out to dim Archie’s spotlight? In a desert town blooming with secrets, Clara’s about to uncover a drama that’s anything but scripted.

Humorous summer read small town mystery! Catch the whole series

135 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 21, 2025

Reviews

[John Presler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archie Fontaine has been invited to participate in a stage play of The Desert Deception in the Route 66 town of Cactus Creek. He is accompanied by his friend, Clara Fitzwater, her niece, Jane, and Archie's son, Collin. The theater where the play is being held is very old and has many issues. There are also rumors of ghosts in the theater. In addition, there are rumors of a buried treasure from years ago.

Right from the first rehearsal, it seems that issues were plaguing the production. Flickering lights and a full black-out makes Clara think the issues are deliberate, rather than accidents. When a misfired shot puts a hole in a backdrop, Clara becomes concerned about Archie's safety. Given the timing and nature of the incidents, Clara feels certain that they are deliberate and decides to investigate.

Are the incidents deliberate? If so, who is responsible? Are the rumors of treasure real or wishful thinking? Can Clara and her friends unravel the mystery?

CeeCee James has created another wonderful mystery along Route 66. There are plenty of twists and turns, with clues to keep the reader engaged clear to the end.

[Jane Firebaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danger in the Desert is book 3 in the Open Road series.

Unlike many sequels and subsequent series books, it does not disappoint one bit.

Clara Fitzwater and her gang are endearing and funny, as well as being pretty able sleuths.

I loved the mystery and the place where it was taking place.

Completely fun and enjoyable book! I highly recommend it!

[Nicki Mech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun mystery

I love the sense of humor in this book as well as love of family and friends. The red herrings were well thought out which added to a sensationally written plot. Definitely looking forward to the next mystery adventure.

[Anne M. Waskiewicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

It is a great fast moving story set with Rt. 66 and a play house opening night. The antics are daring with a twist of danger and intrigue. It is a fun light hearted Mystery to be solved.

[Valerie Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Geography


FYI, New Mexico is not between Arizona and California. And At one time both states were N.M. territory not the other way around

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! It was fun and refreshing. Kept me on my toes and lighthearted. I can’t wait to read the next one!!!

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun series, and I'm enjoying it more than expected.