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Bodhi King #3
Hidden Path
A corpse in a cornfield. Neighbor waging war against neighbor. A journal written in code. Forensic pathology Bodhi King’s silent retreat at Buddhism monastery hasn’t been as contemplative, or silent, as he hoped. Bodhi’s plan was to meditate on the meaning of a recent run-in with an old flame, but instead he’s pressed into service to identify a murdered stranger. He teams up with a pair of federal agents, a bold, brainy plant pathologist, and the no-nonsense, small-town police chief. The players’ loyalties shift continually, and nothing’s as it seems. Counseled by his Buddhist monk hosts, and out of his depth, Bodhi finds himself in the middle of investigation with international political and financial implications. And, to think, all he wanted was a little peace and quiet. Hidden Path is the third book in the Bodhi King forensic thriller series by USA Today bestseller Melissa F. Miller.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2017
138 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Melissa F. Miller
89 books593 followersMelissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 17, 2018
‘Hidden Path’, the third novel in the Bodhi King series, sees our Buddhist pathologist travel to a remote small town in the middle of corn fields, so that he can spend a week on a silent retreat at a Buddhist centre. What could possibly go wrong in a place where everything revolves around corn? Don’t ask - just count the dead bodies: this may not be a story about rival drug cartels, but there are plenty of people getting hurt over the humble kernel. Think agricultural espionage and you’ll get the idea. As usual, the author was inspired by real events, as she explains in the Author’s Note at the end.
Three novels into into the series, Bodhi King’s character traits are by now established enough to feel familiar; at the same time, however, Bodhi has also had plenty of opportunities to face difficult decisions, often conflicting with his buddhist beliefs. The constant character development in Miller’s books is one of the reasons why her Sasha McCandless and Aroostine Higgins series are so successful: this is an author who does a great job at making her protagonists’ behaviour becomes less and less predictable as the story goes on, without, however, ever straying too far from the traits that made those same characters so appealing.
If a crime novel can ever be a soothing read, the Bodhi series is a case in point: every book makes you want to be a little bit more like Bodhi - calm, reflective, compassionate - whilst at the same time spurring you to keep reading. It’s an odd combination but it absolutely works. If you struggle with your monkey mind and those little books of mindfulness don’t work - maybe what you need on your bedside table is a Bodhi King story.
Three novels into into the series, Bodhi King’s character traits are by now established enough to feel familiar; at the same time, however, Bodhi has also had plenty of opportunities to face difficult decisions, often conflicting with his buddhist beliefs. The constant character development in Miller’s books is one of the reasons why her Sasha McCandless and Aroostine Higgins series are so successful: this is an author who does a great job at making her protagonists’ behaviour becomes less and less predictable as the story goes on, without, however, ever straying too far from the traits that made those same characters so appealing.
If a crime novel can ever be a soothing read, the Bodhi series is a case in point: every book makes you want to be a little bit more like Bodhi - calm, reflective, compassionate - whilst at the same time spurring you to keep reading. It’s an odd combination but it absolutely works. If you struggle with your monkey mind and those little books of mindfulness don’t work - maybe what you need on your bedside table is a Bodhi King story.
November 21, 2021
My husband and I listened to this audio book while traveling. We have listened to them in order and have had interesting conversations on aspects of Buddhism presented in the story and the story itself.
Patholigist Bohdi King travels to a mid-western town to attend a silent retreat.
Unfortunately, his retreat never really gets started. He is thrust into assisting a murder investigation that includes local and national security assets. Bohdi tries to keep those he has met & himself safe from death.
Interesting premise - Agricultural espionage. I enjoyed learning more about GMOs, how they could be manipulated, and why they are of international concern.
Not so sure why the book ended the way it did.
Patholigist Bohdi King travels to a mid-western town to attend a silent retreat.
Unfortunately, his retreat never really gets started. He is thrust into assisting a murder investigation that includes local and national security assets. Bohdi tries to keep those he has met & himself safe from death.
Interesting premise - Agricultural espionage. I enjoyed learning more about GMOs, how they could be manipulated, and why they are of international concern.
Not so sure why the book ended the way it did.
December 12, 2017
HIDDEN PATH by Melissa Miller book 3. "Bodhi King"
Bodhi was on his way to a monastery, a place of quiet, he needed this, nothing but cornfields around. Sam felt the prairie had eyes, watching him, and unknown to him they were. Instead of quiet, feud over the spraying of crops, and winds destroying crops. A murder, unknown man, with plans to stay that way, was staying at the monastery. Bodhi came across him in the fields, another is now missing. He mentions to the Chief to call in the Fed's, she nor for it. Then finding a trunk with an encryption notebook, in the basement. Too many things happening, and with Bodhi they will come together. For another fascinating story, that readers will love. Looking forward to more in this series, it has been a favorite of mine, read one or all three, you will enjoy them.
Bodhi was on his way to a monastery, a place of quiet, he needed this, nothing but cornfields around. Sam felt the prairie had eyes, watching him, and unknown to him they were. Instead of quiet, feud over the spraying of crops, and winds destroying crops. A murder, unknown man, with plans to stay that way, was staying at the monastery. Bodhi came across him in the fields, another is now missing. He mentions to the Chief to call in the Fed's, she nor for it. Then finding a trunk with an encryption notebook, in the basement. Too many things happening, and with Bodhi they will come together. For another fascinating story, that readers will love. Looking forward to more in this series, it has been a favorite of mine, read one or all three, you will enjoy them.
January 4, 2021
Bodhi goes to a Buddhist monastery in the middle of nowhere, Indiana, surrounded by corn fields, to reflect on his unresolved reaction to seeing his former love in the last installment. Walking through one of those cornfields, he chances upon a newly dead body, and his spiritual cleansing is interrupted by a mystery with growing tension and danger. Corporate spies and plans that could topple economies are involved. We learn about GMOs in the process, which is a benefit.
The last paragraph of this novel really threw me for a loop. I didn't see it coming, and I am troubled a bit by what it suggests for future installments. Any fan of the series should probably make that judgment for themselves, though.
The last paragraph of this novel really threw me for a loop. I didn't see it coming, and I am troubled a bit by what it suggests for future installments. Any fan of the series should probably make that judgment for themselves, though.
June 9, 2023
3.5 stars…maybe 4? The super fun parts of this are that the protagonist is a medical pathologist who is also a practicing Buddhist. He’s trying to enjoy a silent retreat when he gets roped into several mysteries. He and the monks at the retreat center thoughtfully weigh his involvement in the crime-solving through several Buddhist ethical lenses, which is fun. However, I subtracted a star or two because the ending came out of nowhere, and I just didn’t follow the author’s train of thought on how it ended up. Still worth a read though. If you like ethics and mystery, you might enjoy this series!
December 7, 2024
A quick and well read audiobook.
Bodhi has decided to do another Buddhist retreat to think about his life goals going forward. Unbeknownst to him, this idealic rural setting is beset by spies and killers. He is called on to assist when the first dead body is found. From there, he is involved despite his wish to remain centred on his goals.
I do wonder if the author is a Buddhist. The themes of this religion are often presented in these books - the wish to not harm any living creature is quite prevalent. If only life made that choice easy!
Bodhi has decided to do another Buddhist retreat to think about his life goals going forward. Unbeknownst to him, this idealic rural setting is beset by spies and killers. He is called on to assist when the first dead body is found. From there, he is involved despite his wish to remain centred on his goals.
I do wonder if the author is a Buddhist. The themes of this religion are often presented in these books - the wish to not harm any living creature is quite prevalent. If only life made that choice easy!
February 18, 2020
A quick read
But an interesting one about corn espionage. The book is short but, consequently, it doesn’t have a lot of extraneous prose. Since Bodhi is Buddhist, you get the feeling that it reflects his serene, clean approach to life. I enjoy Bodhi’s philosophy and way of living. I’ll definitely be reading more of the books in this series and others by Melissa Miller. Hers are well-written, well-edited books with excellent character development.
But an interesting one about corn espionage. The book is short but, consequently, it doesn’t have a lot of extraneous prose. Since Bodhi is Buddhist, you get the feeling that it reflects his serene, clean approach to life. I enjoy Bodhi’s philosophy and way of living. I’ll definitely be reading more of the books in this series and others by Melissa Miller. Hers are well-written, well-edited books with excellent character development.
December 23, 2020
I was really enjoying the book until the very end. I don't understand why the author made the jump with her characters as she did and I really wished she hadn't. What I had enjoyed so much about the first book was that it wasn't romance. It was about science and self reflection of dealing with encounters King has with science, other humans and his beliefs. I'm hoping book 4 doesn't continue into a romance.
July 28, 2022
Audiobook - 3.5 stars. I listened to this as I was driving through Illinois. It really added to the experience since this was set in a small town in Illinois. If I were Bodhi, I'd tell everyone to fuck off. I'm retired, I just solve a bunch of mysterious deaths and I came to this monastary to relax, meditate and drink tea or whatever bhuddist do, but everyone keeps trying to get me solve murders. Leave me alone.
May 13, 2019
A bit Cormier
Sori I could not help it.
A lot of research went into this novel and gave me a better u understanding of the government-purchasing corn.
I think the story was entertaining but just a days read. I like that it incorporated Sasha from another series. I have read better , I like the Buddhist storyline.
Sori I could not help it.
A lot of research went into this novel and gave me a better u understanding of the government-purchasing corn.
I think the story was entertaining but just a days read. I like that it incorporated Sasha from another series. I have read better , I like the Buddhist storyline.
September 1, 2019
Bohdi is the best
After a few of these novels it occurred to me there is a vague similarity with Shards Christy's Inspector Poirot. A straightforward guy who has a great eye for odd details usually missed. There is usually a low level heartthrob in the story. Well vague it is, but for all the same reasons I really enjoy the stories.
After a few of these novels it occurred to me there is a vague similarity with Shards Christy's Inspector Poirot. A straightforward guy who has a great eye for odd details usually missed. There is usually a low level heartthrob in the story. Well vague it is, but for all the same reasons I really enjoy the stories.
February 23, 2020
For some reason I enjoyed this book more than the first three. May be because I am now used to the conclusion coming on so quickly and right to the point.
Or I’m just used to the characters being easily figured out.
The Buddhist aspect is interesting as I am not at all versed in this philosophy.
Just bought the the next book in the series.
Or I’m just used to the characters being easily figured out.
The Buddhist aspect is interesting as I am not at all versed in this philosophy.
Just bought the the next book in the series.
December 13, 2017
The character of Bodhi King gets increasingly interesting as this series moves along. Miller creates an atmosphere in this mystery that goes well with Bohdi's style. I like that he works well with others in solving crimes. And I really liked the ending. :-)
June 22, 2018
It was SO good!
Best Bodhi book yet!!! I can't wait for the next one. I really enjoyed a glimpse of Bodhi's humaness. I also love Melissa F. Miller's strong female characters. Thank you for another great book!
Best Bodhi book yet!!! I can't wait for the next one. I really enjoyed a glimpse of Bodhi's humaness. I also love Melissa F. Miller's strong female characters. Thank you for another great book!
February 21, 2019
Loved this one! So much to learn (and know) about corn! Not something I ever thought I'd read about. I really like reading how Bodhi approaches solving each case, as it's much different to how other characters (in other books) go about it. It's interesting, and this is one enjoyable read.
April 9, 2020
I can't get enough
Book 3 already finished, just got it last night. Can't wait to get to next book. The main character is wonderfully written and the mysteries are real stories that would be cool sitting around with others and read aloud.
Book 3 already finished, just got it last night. Can't wait to get to next book. The main character is wonderfully written and the mysteries are real stories that would be cool sitting around with others and read aloud.
April 25, 2021
Right up my alley
I love the characters, the storylines and Ms. Miller's writing style. She gives you lots to keep you interested without blathering on with unnecessary descriptions. My kinda novel. Thank you!!!
I love the characters, the storylines and Ms. Miller's writing style. She gives you lots to keep you interested without blathering on with unnecessary descriptions. My kinda novel. Thank you!!!
May 23, 2021
The background supporting the story is good, but the story is weak. Bodhi is the only character who more or less seems like a person, but it seems to have taken three books to get this far. Then, the surprise ending dissolves the person you thought Bodhi was. He didn't evolve, just changed.
August 30, 2022
This is the 3rd book in this series and the author continues to develop, Bodhi King, the main character. This one involves international espionage in the food industry which is another meaningful topic to carve a mystery around.
January 13, 2020
Like this series and Bodhi King....this one kind of left me feeling like I missed something, or the ending was too abrupt, not sure....
February 16, 2020
I enjoyed this book in the series, with the forensic, a Buddhist pathologist, travel to the heartland and the agricultural espionage. The story moved right along without any slow or boring parts.
May 28, 2020
I am afraid soon I will be through all these books....:(
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November 3, 2020These are interesting books since they are about a Buddhist monk that is trying to retire. He keeps getting involved in these mysteries along the way.
July 29, 2022
I have enjoyed the first three Bodhi King books. I am in the medical field so I think that is one reason I liked them.
March 21, 2023
Bodhi book #3
I enjoyed this book. It came from a different angle and gave a good mind exercise trying to figure out who would ultimately be the villain. Good book
I enjoyed this book. It came from a different angle and gave a good mind exercise trying to figure out who would ultimately be the villain. Good book
September 1, 2020
I love Bodhi King. Such an easy read. Good mystery, nicely written. A perfect no-frills book.
July 24, 2021
Well plotted and entertaining. Narrators performance added to the reading experience.
Detractor from a more enjoyable reading experience — loaded with Buddhism. It’s not listed as a religious novel.
Detractor from a more enjoyable reading experience — loaded with Buddhism. It’s not listed as a religious novel.
Currently reading
July 13, 2018A good read
....and a fast one. The 3 books are almost akin to 3 chapters in 1 book. Corn, country and a new companionship are the bones and good humor the skin..read it.
....and a fast one. The 3 books are almost akin to 3 chapters in 1 book. Corn, country and a new companionship are the bones and good humor the skin..read it.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews