I think that this book is not only the best of the series, but in my opinion it's the best of any of Maria Schneider's books. It is a unique departure from, but also builds on, the earlier books in the series. There are many of the same characters, but some who used to be the main focus are here in more of a supporting role. Which opens the space for new and wonderfully interesting characters.
The locale of the first 15% of Ghost Shadow is a lonely, depressing, desolate place. Maria Schneider is a wonderful author, and captures this background desolation so well that I couldn't proceed at my normal breakneck pace of devouring books. I slowed down, even took a couple breaks where I read other books. But Shadow kept calling me back. Those feelings of lonelines, fear, and dispare were important to the story. And characteristics of locale. And locale is a character in this book, be it In Between of the early part of the book, or the South West of the later part. About 25% of the way into the book I realized that even though the depressing atmosphere had totally lifted, the writing in this book is so good that I continued to read at the slower pace, this time so that I could savor the story.
The book is self contained enough, and contains the character development of the main characters in this book that even if you haven't read the rest of the series, you don't loose anything by starting here.
Maria Schneider has been a favorite author of mine for quite some time, but she has exceeded all expectations with this story. I can't say you'll enjoy every page, because fear and desolation are part of the story. But so is combating and overcoming them. Now it's not a self help book, nor is it a mindless lite read. But it is a great story that is well told.
As I said, Maria Schneider is one of my favorite authors. She continues to exceed expectations with every book she produces. I expect this book to stick with me for a long time. I can only hope that Ms Schneider has a long and prolific career that keeps me indulged with great books for a long time. In any case, I look forward to reading anything Maria Schneider cares to write.