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A Murder in the Mountains #3
Guilt by Association
~Book 3 in the Award-Winning Murder in the Mountains series~
Tess Spencer hadn't planned on returning to her hometown, but when her ex-prisoner mom puts in a special request, Tess overcomes her hesitance to help her turn over a new leaf.
Pearletta Vee's drug-dealing past is resurrected when the body of an overdosed teen shows up—right next to her trailer. Tess decides to stick around and investigate, yet the evidence is stacked against Pearletta. Tess suspects a setup—but why?
Never one to back down from a challenge, Tess takes on a wayward teen, an abusive grandma, and more than one drug dealer in her quest for the truth. But it's going to take a miracle to keep her from becoming a casualty in her own personal war on drugs.
Plunging into the shadowy reality of the drug epidemic in West Virginia, Guilt by Association is the third book in the award-winning Murder in the Mountains mystery series.
Tess Spencer hadn't planned on returning to her hometown, but when her ex-prisoner mom puts in a special request, Tess overcomes her hesitance to help her turn over a new leaf.
Pearletta Vee's drug-dealing past is resurrected when the body of an overdosed teen shows up—right next to her trailer. Tess decides to stick around and investigate, yet the evidence is stacked against Pearletta. Tess suspects a setup—but why?
Never one to back down from a challenge, Tess takes on a wayward teen, an abusive grandma, and more than one drug dealer in her quest for the truth. But it's going to take a miracle to keep her from becoming a casualty in her own personal war on drugs.
Plunging into the shadowy reality of the drug epidemic in West Virginia, Guilt by Association is the third book in the award-winning Murder in the Mountains mystery series.
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First published December 1, 2017
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About the author
Heather Day Gilbert
43 books870 followersHeather Day Gilbert, an RWA Daphne du Maurier Award-winning author and 2-time ECPA Christy Award finalist, enjoys writing contemporary mysteries/psychological thrillers and Viking historicals. She brings authentic family relationships to the page, and she particularly delights in heroines who take a stand to protect those they love. Avid readers say Heather's realistic characters—no matter what century—feel like best friends. When she's not plotting stories, this native West Virginian can often be found hanging out with her husband and four children, playing video games, or reading Agatha Christie novels.
Find out more at heatherdaygilbert.com.
Find out more at heatherdaygilbert.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 8, 2018
At the conclusion of the second installment of this mystery series set in contemporary Appalachia, Trial by Twelve (which won the Grace award in 2015), series amateur sleuth Tess Spencer got a phone call from her mom, Pearletta Vee Lilly, announcing the latter's impending release from the Federal women's prison at Alderson, WV. In the first book, she'd already been there for several years, serving a sentence for drug dealing (she was both a dealer and user). The main narrative of this book opens with Tess' daughter about to turn two, and Tess about to head for Boone County (which actually is a real-life county, in southern West Virginia) for yet another visit to her mom, to help the latter navigate her continuing re-integration into the outside-the-bars world. But the discovery of the dead body of an apparently drug-overdosed teen --at the side of Pearletta's trailer-- soon takes this visit outside the realm of the ordinary. Tess' sleuthing skills will be needed; and one mystery to explore is whether Pearletta Vee is really as reformed as she wants Tess to believe.
West Virginia has the highest per capita drug-related death rate in the U.S. Its destructive drug culture isn't confined to urban areas; it permeates the economically depressed rural areas as well, blighting community life and destroying countless lives in all age groups, not just the unfortunates who succumb to overdoses. This reviewer has personally observed the ravages of the drug epidemic; I live right on the border of West Virginia, and conditions in similarly-depressed southwest Virginia aren't a lot different. (So I have a somewhat different perspective on the subject than the smug politicians and pundits who push legalization, and less tolerance for the drug trade's slick PR efforts to burnish its image with the clueless.) To her credit, in this novel Gilbert focuses her attention --and the reader's-- squarely on the drug problem, and she treats it with a hard dose of realism instead of smiley-face attempts to legitimate it. Granted, her treatment is more descriptive than deeply analytical. But where both authors and readers of Christian fiction are routinely accused of wanting to simply ignore social problems around them, Gilbert refuses to do that.
In many respects, this series entry has much in common with the two that preceded it. But the Boone County setting takes Tess into less familiar (to us, that is --she grew up there) territory, though several series characters, Tess' family and others, still play key roles in the plot. Also, we get much more of a look than before into the dynamics of her dysfunctional birth family, and her unresolved issues with her neglectful mom and long-absconded dad. (We're subtly reminded that at its heart, the Christian faith is about forgiveness; though Tess isn't a plaster saint and not all of her baggage is necessarily going to be magically resolved here. But the author allows Tess and others to be dynamic, not static, characters.) Also, structurally, this book is almost entirely Tess' own present-tense narration; rather than snippets from a trove of decades-old writings at the beginnings of chapters, here we have instead a prologue in another (and unnamed) narrative voice, giving us subtle clues to what's going on in the main book. They're not self-evidently easy to decipher, however; in this case, I didn't identify the primary villain until the denouement.
Some nits could be picked in places. In one chapter, lunch seems to follow breakfast with unlikely rapidity. Near the end, Tess benefits considerably from some stupid behavior on her adversaries' part. And here, she packs her Glock in her purse, and plans at one point to get a more practical belt holster --but she already had one of the latter in the previous book. But those are minor quibbles; Barb and I both found this a great read. Tess is a heroine with a lot of heart, and the depiction of her strongly loving relationships with her hubby, her daughter, and the extended Spencer family are a major plus.
Some reviewers might apply the label "cozy" to the series. (And this book, like the second one, has an appended recipe --I can't remember if the series opener did or not-- which is sometimes seen as a "cozy" characteristic; homemade food is characteristic of country cuisine in Appalachia, and I see this as just a touch of local color.) Personally, I've never cared much for the term "cozy" as applied to murder mysteries --it seems incongruous for explorations of the callous extinguishing of human lives as a result of serious darkness in the psyches of other human beings. But I do value the distinction between "traditional" mysteries, which presuppose moral order in the universe and view crime as an aberration that can be set right by the efforts of the hero/heroine and the community, vs. "noir" mysteries, which tend to presuppose moral anarchy and anomie and to view crime and injustice as the norm which no activities by the protagonist can really alleviate. In terms of that dichotomy, Gilbert's literary vision is squarely in the "traditional" camp. That's the camp with which my taste is aligned; and if yours is too, you may find this series right up your alley.
West Virginia has the highest per capita drug-related death rate in the U.S. Its destructive drug culture isn't confined to urban areas; it permeates the economically depressed rural areas as well, blighting community life and destroying countless lives in all age groups, not just the unfortunates who succumb to overdoses. This reviewer has personally observed the ravages of the drug epidemic; I live right on the border of West Virginia, and conditions in similarly-depressed southwest Virginia aren't a lot different. (So I have a somewhat different perspective on the subject than the smug politicians and pundits who push legalization, and less tolerance for the drug trade's slick PR efforts to burnish its image with the clueless.) To her credit, in this novel Gilbert focuses her attention --and the reader's-- squarely on the drug problem, and she treats it with a hard dose of realism instead of smiley-face attempts to legitimate it. Granted, her treatment is more descriptive than deeply analytical. But where both authors and readers of Christian fiction are routinely accused of wanting to simply ignore social problems around them, Gilbert refuses to do that.
In many respects, this series entry has much in common with the two that preceded it. But the Boone County setting takes Tess into less familiar (to us, that is --she grew up there) territory, though several series characters, Tess' family and others, still play key roles in the plot. Also, we get much more of a look than before into the dynamics of her dysfunctional birth family, and her unresolved issues with her neglectful mom and long-absconded dad. (We're subtly reminded that at its heart, the Christian faith is about forgiveness; though Tess isn't a plaster saint and not all of her baggage is necessarily going to be magically resolved here. But the author allows Tess and others to be dynamic, not static, characters.) Also, structurally, this book is almost entirely Tess' own present-tense narration; rather than snippets from a trove of decades-old writings at the beginnings of chapters, here we have instead a prologue in another (and unnamed) narrative voice, giving us subtle clues to what's going on in the main book. They're not self-evidently easy to decipher, however; in this case, I didn't identify the primary villain until the denouement.
Some nits could be picked in places. In one chapter, lunch seems to follow breakfast with unlikely rapidity. Near the end, Tess benefits considerably from some stupid behavior on her adversaries' part. And here, she packs her Glock in her purse, and plans at one point to get a more practical belt holster --but she already had one of the latter in the previous book. But those are minor quibbles; Barb and I both found this a great read. Tess is a heroine with a lot of heart, and the depiction of her strongly loving relationships with her hubby, her daughter, and the extended Spencer family are a major plus.
Some reviewers might apply the label "cozy" to the series. (And this book, like the second one, has an appended recipe --I can't remember if the series opener did or not-- which is sometimes seen as a "cozy" characteristic; homemade food is characteristic of country cuisine in Appalachia, and I see this as just a touch of local color.) Personally, I've never cared much for the term "cozy" as applied to murder mysteries --it seems incongruous for explorations of the callous extinguishing of human lives as a result of serious darkness in the psyches of other human beings. But I do value the distinction between "traditional" mysteries, which presuppose moral order in the universe and view crime as an aberration that can be set right by the efforts of the hero/heroine and the community, vs. "noir" mysteries, which tend to presuppose moral anarchy and anomie and to view crime and injustice as the norm which no activities by the protagonist can really alleviate. In terms of that dichotomy, Gilbert's literary vision is squarely in the "traditional" camp. That's the camp with which my taste is aligned; and if yours is too, you may find this series right up your alley.
December 30, 2017
Tess Spencer is back to her usual mystery solving tendencies, but this time, it's deeply personal - the body of a teenager is found outside of her mom's place, dead from an apparent drug overdose. Her mother swears she been clean since her release from prison, but Tess just can't seem to shake the feeling that her mom may be involved somehow – a feeling that only intensifies when her mother appears to have skipped town.
The one thing I always love about this series is without question is Tess’s vivid personality. I feel like I know her so well, but at the same time, each story reveals yet another facet of her character that I didn’t know about yet. In this case, more is revealed about her past than before, as well as her thoughts and feelings about being a mother, which are both intense and fiercely protective.
This story also struck a chord with me because of the realness of the opioid epidemic. It has been an issue in many states for quite some time, but I feel like it’s just recently been talked about on a mass scale. The fight against drugs and addiction is rarely one that isn’t relevant, and that story proves that it truly does cross all boundaries and all walks of life.
One thing that Gilbert also does well is make Tess completely aware that there is a good chance that she’ll be in over her head. Instead of blindly walking into a situation, Tess acknowledges that, yes, this may not be ideal, but she’s going to go for it – “I’ve definitely set some wheels in motion. The only question is if I can keep them moving on the right course, or if they’ll wind up crushing me.” I just appreciate that upfront approach that keeps Tess from being a mystery novel caricature but rather a real person with layers and depth.
Though this story can be read as a standalone, personally, I recommend starting at the beginning. The reading experience will be that much richer and deeper for it. I can’t wait for Tess’s next adventure. Recommended for fans of both mysteries and stories with a strong female protagonist.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion.
The one thing I always love about this series is without question is Tess’s vivid personality. I feel like I know her so well, but at the same time, each story reveals yet another facet of her character that I didn’t know about yet. In this case, more is revealed about her past than before, as well as her thoughts and feelings about being a mother, which are both intense and fiercely protective.
This story also struck a chord with me because of the realness of the opioid epidemic. It has been an issue in many states for quite some time, but I feel like it’s just recently been talked about on a mass scale. The fight against drugs and addiction is rarely one that isn’t relevant, and that story proves that it truly does cross all boundaries and all walks of life.
One thing that Gilbert also does well is make Tess completely aware that there is a good chance that she’ll be in over her head. Instead of blindly walking into a situation, Tess acknowledges that, yes, this may not be ideal, but she’s going to go for it – “I’ve definitely set some wheels in motion. The only question is if I can keep them moving on the right course, or if they’ll wind up crushing me.” I just appreciate that upfront approach that keeps Tess from being a mystery novel caricature but rather a real person with layers and depth.
Though this story can be read as a standalone, personally, I recommend starting at the beginning. The reading experience will be that much richer and deeper for it. I can’t wait for Tess’s next adventure. Recommended for fans of both mysteries and stories with a strong female protagonist.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion.
April 17, 2018
Tess Spencer was my introduction to cozy mystery, and she set the bar quite high. With her quirky personality she draws you in trying to solve the mystery right along with her. She takes risks but not blindly.
This series is written in first person POV, which I usually don't like but the author has a great way of taking you along in Tess' thoughts and POV that it didn't bother me at all, I actually enjoyed reading Tess' thoughts and follow her thought pattern.
This mystery deals with the issue of drugs and abuse, which is quite a serious topic, but handled in such a way that as reader, it still feel "light" for the cozy mystery genre, but not too lightly that the seriousness of these issues fall away.
It did felt however that there was a mystery with Axel which was never solved...
This series is recommended to fans of cozy mysteries.
This series is written in first person POV, which I usually don't like but the author has a great way of taking you along in Tess' thoughts and POV that it didn't bother me at all, I actually enjoyed reading Tess' thoughts and follow her thought pattern.
This mystery deals with the issue of drugs and abuse, which is quite a serious topic, but handled in such a way that as reader, it still feel "light" for the cozy mystery genre, but not too lightly that the seriousness of these issues fall away.
It did felt however that there was a mystery with Axel which was never solved...
This series is recommended to fans of cozy mysteries.
December 1, 2017
'I'm praying, too, but sometimes prayers need feet.'
And Tess Spencer is back. In fine form, I might add. Tess Spencer is a housewife from West Virginia, packing a Glock, fearless, indomitable and determined to solve crime. I fell in love with her spirit in the first book in Heather Gilbert's 'A Murder in the Mountains' series and I hope to continue seeing Tess barreling headlong into sleuthing.
This time, Tess's mother, Pearletta Vee has been released from prison and it would seem as if her drug dealing past is producing even more problems when a dead body shows up right in her trailer yard. Tess is there visiting and decides she may as well stick around and see if she can solve this latest crime. Pearletta vanishes before her eyes and the evidence against her is mounting, yet Tess seems to think this is a frame up job.
Tess Spencer is not only trying to solve this crime, but also taking a wayward teen in hand, dealing with an abusive grandma and trying to set up her own drug buying deals. She just might be in over her head in this one.
Heather Gilbert is great at building suspense here and also in her other books in this series. I read this book in less than a day! Fascinating! Written in first POV, the reader gets inside Tess's mind and see the world from her angle and it's a great way to dive into the story. I loved every minute. And...Gilbert never lets the reader in on the secret until the very end...with a very surprising ending, I might add. I never once had a clue who the culprit was. Bravo! Don't miss this one.
*I was given a preview copy of this book. My review is entirely my own opinion.
And Tess Spencer is back. In fine form, I might add. Tess Spencer is a housewife from West Virginia, packing a Glock, fearless, indomitable and determined to solve crime. I fell in love with her spirit in the first book in Heather Gilbert's 'A Murder in the Mountains' series and I hope to continue seeing Tess barreling headlong into sleuthing.
This time, Tess's mother, Pearletta Vee has been released from prison and it would seem as if her drug dealing past is producing even more problems when a dead body shows up right in her trailer yard. Tess is there visiting and decides she may as well stick around and see if she can solve this latest crime. Pearletta vanishes before her eyes and the evidence against her is mounting, yet Tess seems to think this is a frame up job.
Tess Spencer is not only trying to solve this crime, but also taking a wayward teen in hand, dealing with an abusive grandma and trying to set up her own drug buying deals. She just might be in over her head in this one.
Heather Gilbert is great at building suspense here and also in her other books in this series. I read this book in less than a day! Fascinating! Written in first POV, the reader gets inside Tess's mind and see the world from her angle and it's a great way to dive into the story. I loved every minute. And...Gilbert never lets the reader in on the secret until the very end...with a very surprising ending, I might add. I never once had a clue who the culprit was. Bravo! Don't miss this one.
*I was given a preview copy of this book. My review is entirely my own opinion.
January 14, 2025
"I have no real justification for my risky ventures, outside the fact that I'm wired to intervene when the people I care about are in trouble."
And there you have it, Tess Spencer herself; fiercely loyal despite a natural inclination for trouble, wearing a heart big enough to love wayward teens, abused children, and less than perfect parents. What she does not love is the fact that a dead body has turned up behind her mother's dilapidated old trailer, a corpse that exhibits every sign of a drug overdose. Her mother has only been out of prison for three months, how could this have happened?
Using every sleuthing skill that God has given her, and borrowing a few others, Tess extends her trip home; determined to look under every rock to uncover who is on a killing spree in Boone County, West Virginia. This cozy mountain mystery with its colorful main character will keep your nose securely planted in the book!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
And there you have it, Tess Spencer herself; fiercely loyal despite a natural inclination for trouble, wearing a heart big enough to love wayward teens, abused children, and less than perfect parents. What she does not love is the fact that a dead body has turned up behind her mother's dilapidated old trailer, a corpse that exhibits every sign of a drug overdose. Her mother has only been out of prison for three months, how could this have happened?
Using every sleuthing skill that God has given her, and borrowing a few others, Tess extends her trip home; determined to look under every rock to uncover who is on a killing spree in Boone County, West Virginia. This cozy mountain mystery with its colorful main character will keep your nose securely planted in the book!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
February 21, 2020
I’m disappointed...disappointed that I have finished book 3 in A Murder In The Mountains series. I want more, lots more! This was one of my favorite series I have read in a long, long time. I love the family dynamics between Tess and her husband and her husband’s family. I love the mystery components and how at any given moment, I was suspecting a new culprit. I love the faith aspects. I love the imperfections of Tess’ family and the realism portrayed. I love that Tess totes around a gun. And of course, I love the writing style of Heather Day Gilbert. But again, I am disappointed that Book 4 is not available right now to read! 😉
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For more reviews, please check out my blog!
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May 5, 2022
Tess is such a fun character. Love her no filter/no excuses approach to life.
November 6, 2018
Another winner by Heather Day Gilbert. I have loved each of the Tess Spencer mysteries and this was no exception. Tess is the kind of character I wish I could have as a friend. She's smart, gutsy, she cares about what really matters, and she makes me laugh in every book. I appreciated that in this story, we get to go deeper with Tess and her relationship with her mother, while also delving into the hidden-in-plain-sight world of drug abuse. As always with this series, this book kept me guessing til the very end. The audible narration gave it an extra layer of enjoyment for me.
March 26, 2018
This was the first novel I've read by Heather, and what a pleasant surprise it was! Not only did I love the story, which focuses on the very relevant opioid crisis plaguing our country, but I loved Heather's writing voice and her skilled use of first-person POV. While I normally don't read murder-mysteries, this one had me hooked. I was also drawn to the exploration of complicated family relationships within the novel, including an upcoming hook for the next book.
September 29, 2022
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I love a good mystery that can keep me guessing! I really liked Tess. I had listened to the audiobook version and really enjoyed it! I would definitely recommend it!
I was given a complimentary copy from the author, but was not required to write a review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author, but was not required to write a review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
May 2, 2018
see full review at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com
This story will keep you on your toes, and turning pages to find out what happens next! With lively characters, and a realistic plot-line that draws you in and keeps you guessing as to what might happen next. I love Heather’s writing style and appreciate how she keeps reader actively engaged in the story.
Tess’s mom, Pearletta Vee is out of prison and back in the thick of the drama surrounding a drug epidemic in the West Virginia mountains. Tess is trying her best to help exonerate her mom from a murder mystery, but it seems someone is out to stack the deck against her.
The drug epidemic is as real in this story as it is in many towns across this country. Too often people turn to pills and other forms of drugs as a form of escape. Heather tackles this tough topic head-on and doesn’t shy away from the truth of what life is like day in and day out for those who are trapped in this drug cycle.
Those who enjoy mystery & suspense will want to make sure to grab a copy of this book! I was kept guessing until the end, and I never even suspected the real culprit. I give this book 4-stars and recommend it to my suspense loving friends.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
This story will keep you on your toes, and turning pages to find out what happens next! With lively characters, and a realistic plot-line that draws you in and keeps you guessing as to what might happen next. I love Heather’s writing style and appreciate how she keeps reader actively engaged in the story.
Tess’s mom, Pearletta Vee is out of prison and back in the thick of the drama surrounding a drug epidemic in the West Virginia mountains. Tess is trying her best to help exonerate her mom from a murder mystery, but it seems someone is out to stack the deck against her.
The drug epidemic is as real in this story as it is in many towns across this country. Too often people turn to pills and other forms of drugs as a form of escape. Heather tackles this tough topic head-on and doesn’t shy away from the truth of what life is like day in and day out for those who are trapped in this drug cycle.
Those who enjoy mystery & suspense will want to make sure to grab a copy of this book! I was kept guessing until the end, and I never even suspected the real culprit. I give this book 4-stars and recommend it to my suspense loving friends.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
November 20, 2017
Another incredible book from Heather Day Gilbert! I love the characters and the story. The ending makes me ready for book four!
December 13, 2017
Guilt by Association, third in the Murder in the Mountains series by Heather Day Gilbert has amateur sleuth, Tess Spencer, knee deep in dead bodies again. And her mom is high on the list of suspects. Can Tess clear Pearletta Vee's name or is she headed back to prison. Gilbert keeps the suspense high throughout the book with several twists and turns to the plot and unexpected happenings. I am usually pretty good at guessing whodunit but this story kept me guessing to the end. Even though this is a third book in a series, the storyline and themes of this book are well developed enough to keep the reader's attention and not leave unanswered questions of what may have happened with the characters previously.The characters, a few from the previous two books and some new ones, are likable and Gilbert brings authenticity to them, allowing readers to see their foibles along with their strengths. Several rather gritty subjects, i.e., illegal drug use, fractured family relationships, and child abuse, are tackled in this story. And yet, readers are not left with a sense of hopelessness as the author brings out the positive aspects of rehab centers, reconciliation, and the foster care system. Gilbert has given her readers a compelling mystery in Guilt by Association, and avid mystery readers won’t want to miss it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
December 21, 2017
Heather Gilbert's mysteries are a joy, and I believe that's due mostly to the fact that her characters are so well drawn. Tess is so delightfully flawed and realistic, I can't help but feel a little depressed that her stories might be nearing an end. On one hand, she's so sure of herself, she can barge right into the middle of a crime scene and practically take over. On the other, she's insecure enough about her upbringing that she can't convince herself to relax in her mother's trailer. The setting comes to life in this heartbreaking story about drug use and the lives it destroys. I highly recommend this series and can't wait to find out more about a few side characters.
November 24, 2017
When Tess Spencer reluctantly goes to help her ex-con mother hunt for a new home and a dead body turns up behind her mother’s trailer, she has no choice but to stay and clear her mother’s name – even though she’s afraid her mom might be involved.
Along with the mystery, this is a novel with layers of heart. It exposes the tragedy of the drugs that really do run rampant in the areas where the novel is set – and in so many other parts of North America and the world. It touches briefly on child abuse and foster care.
And it shows Tess, away from home and missing her husband and young daughter, comparing the mother-in-law who mothers her with her biological mother who’s let her down more times than she can count.
Lest that sound like a depressing read, it’s anything but. The mystery is engaging and fast-paced, there are delightfully quirky characters, there are heart-warming moments and hope.
Fans of the series will be pleased and/or intrigued to see Axel again, albeit briefly. We need another Axel story, I think, and more resolution with Tess and her parents.
Heather Day Gilbert is a Grace Award winner and bests-selling author of contemporary mysteries and Viking historicals. Guilt by Association is book 3 in her A Murder in the Mountains series, set in the mountains of West Virginia. For more about the author and her books, visit heatherdaygilbert.com.
[Advance review copy provided by the author.]
Along with the mystery, this is a novel with layers of heart. It exposes the tragedy of the drugs that really do run rampant in the areas where the novel is set – and in so many other parts of North America and the world. It touches briefly on child abuse and foster care.
And it shows Tess, away from home and missing her husband and young daughter, comparing the mother-in-law who mothers her with her biological mother who’s let her down more times than she can count.
Lest that sound like a depressing read, it’s anything but. The mystery is engaging and fast-paced, there are delightfully quirky characters, there are heart-warming moments and hope.
Fans of the series will be pleased and/or intrigued to see Axel again, albeit briefly. We need another Axel story, I think, and more resolution with Tess and her parents.
Heather Day Gilbert is a Grace Award winner and bests-selling author of contemporary mysteries and Viking historicals. Guilt by Association is book 3 in her A Murder in the Mountains series, set in the mountains of West Virginia. For more about the author and her books, visit heatherdaygilbert.com.
[Advance review copy provided by the author.]
January 13, 2018
Guilt by Association is a mystery that you cannot figure out. You read and you think you might have an idea but then you change your mind. The story has great characters which makes this mystery more interesting. The plot begins when a body is found next to the trailer of Tess's mother and a bag of drugs are found under the house. Who would kill this young man and where did these drugs come from? That is just the beginning. You will have to read it to find out what happens
January 7, 2018
Fantastic third book in the series. I can't wait for number four!
Tess Spencer is a heroine that is easy to connect to, root for and admire. She adores her husband, child and his family. Her mom recently home from prison for dealing drugs is trying to get her life together when a body ends up in her yard. Pearletta Vee panics and takes off leaving Tess to figure out the truth behind the mysterious death. A surprising twist and conclusion.
Tess Spencer is a heroine that is easy to connect to, root for and admire. She adores her husband, child and his family. Her mom recently home from prison for dealing drugs is trying to get her life together when a body ends up in her yard. Pearletta Vee panics and takes off leaving Tess to figure out the truth behind the mysterious death. A surprising twist and conclusion.
December 15, 2017
A familiar character to those of us who have been biting our nails throughout this series, Tess takes us on another bone chilling adventure to the mountains of West Virginia. Summoned by her ex-convict, former drug dealing mom, Tess hesitantly takes to the mountains to visit her. Her recent release from prison has Tess wary of spending time with her, and shortly after her arrival the body of a teen aged boy is discovered beside her mom's trailer. It appears the boy has died from a drug overdose. Trouble looms!
Multiple characters play key roles throughout this multi layered mystery, and drug abuse is big business in the small town of Boone. Tess can't resist a challenge when it comes to solving a crime, and makes herself "at home" in her mom's trailer, intent on discovering whatever information becomes available regarding the teen's death. Her mom disappears, raising concern that her mom may have been involved.
Written with depth and detail the author sets up multiple possibilities regarding who might be behind the drug deals occurring in and around Boone. Any one of a number of people could be responsible for mysterious deaths due to bad drugs or drug overdoses. Tess leaves no stone unturned.
I found myself holding my breath and reading as fast as I could to discover what was around the next corner! I had absolutely no clue who was wreaking all the havoc within the drug community. Everyone was a suspect, but the answer to my questions was not what I expected. Another page turner by Heather Gilbert! Pick up a copy to see what I'm saying! If you're like me you'll have goosebumps while reading this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as a gift. There were no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.
Multiple characters play key roles throughout this multi layered mystery, and drug abuse is big business in the small town of Boone. Tess can't resist a challenge when it comes to solving a crime, and makes herself "at home" in her mom's trailer, intent on discovering whatever information becomes available regarding the teen's death. Her mom disappears, raising concern that her mom may have been involved.
Written with depth and detail the author sets up multiple possibilities regarding who might be behind the drug deals occurring in and around Boone. Any one of a number of people could be responsible for mysterious deaths due to bad drugs or drug overdoses. Tess leaves no stone unturned.
I found myself holding my breath and reading as fast as I could to discover what was around the next corner! I had absolutely no clue who was wreaking all the havoc within the drug community. Everyone was a suspect, but the answer to my questions was not what I expected. Another page turner by Heather Gilbert! Pick up a copy to see what I'm saying! If you're like me you'll have goosebumps while reading this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as a gift. There were no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.
December 19, 2017
:D <—- That’s how I feel to be reading a Heather Day Gilbert book. I love her writing!
“Guilt by Association” was an absolutely excellent read. So very easy to get into, and if I could, I would’ve read it straight through – I can’t do that with a lot of books (weird quirk of mine) but I could have easily done that with this book if only time had allowed. But I so enjoyed the time I got to spend within its pages.
The mystery was very well-done, gripping to the end, yet not overly…disturbing. I hope that makes sense! There are definitely some dark murder-mystery books out there, but I don’t think Guilt by Association was dark at all, which I appreciate. It was serious without being morbid.
The drug involvement was fascinating, sharing facts I hadn’t previously been aware of. I am thankful the author included this subject and so smoothly worked it in, educating her readers a bit. I was impressed.
And of course, I absolutely loved revisiting the characters! Tess Spencer is such a strong lead character, and so enjoyable to follow along with.
Truly, reading this book was pure pleasure, and felt so realistic, so believable.
The mystery had me curious till the end, with a very satisfying conclusion. And that ending!!! Oh my word, I teared up. Yes, the ending conclusion to the mystery itself was fantastic, but the last page….yep, it hit me right here (imagine me pointing to my heart ;)). You’ll just have to read the book to find out what I mean!
So good. I don’t know what else to say other than that I loved it, enjoyed every minute of it, was impressed, and definitely recommend this series to good-mystery-suspense-homey fiction! I think “Guilt by Association” may actually be my favourite of the series so far! And I hope there’s more books to come, because…yes, very much-needed, in my opinion!! I don’t want to be done with this series. :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review.
“Guilt by Association” was an absolutely excellent read. So very easy to get into, and if I could, I would’ve read it straight through – I can’t do that with a lot of books (weird quirk of mine) but I could have easily done that with this book if only time had allowed. But I so enjoyed the time I got to spend within its pages.
The mystery was very well-done, gripping to the end, yet not overly…disturbing. I hope that makes sense! There are definitely some dark murder-mystery books out there, but I don’t think Guilt by Association was dark at all, which I appreciate. It was serious without being morbid.
The drug involvement was fascinating, sharing facts I hadn’t previously been aware of. I am thankful the author included this subject and so smoothly worked it in, educating her readers a bit. I was impressed.
And of course, I absolutely loved revisiting the characters! Tess Spencer is such a strong lead character, and so enjoyable to follow along with.
Truly, reading this book was pure pleasure, and felt so realistic, so believable.
The mystery had me curious till the end, with a very satisfying conclusion. And that ending!!! Oh my word, I teared up. Yes, the ending conclusion to the mystery itself was fantastic, but the last page….yep, it hit me right here (imagine me pointing to my heart ;)). You’ll just have to read the book to find out what I mean!
So good. I don’t know what else to say other than that I loved it, enjoyed every minute of it, was impressed, and definitely recommend this series to good-mystery-suspense-homey fiction! I think “Guilt by Association” may actually be my favourite of the series so far! And I hope there’s more books to come, because…yes, very much-needed, in my opinion!! I don’t want to be done with this series. :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review.
December 9, 2017
Was she guilty by association? Sure seemed like it. Tess will prove her mother innocent or guilty by the end of the book. Didn't figure this one out until the end! Like suspense, family and some.. why did she do that!! You will like this one. I was gifted a copy and my review is voluntary..
June 14, 2020
This is an interesting, exciting, easy-to-read series. Heroine/sleuth, Tess Spencer, is charming. Fun locals too. I've read all 3 books in this series this spring and have 4-starred them all.
October 23, 2021
Superb mystery!
This book was a real page turner, an excellent mystery and a great continuation of the series about Tess. No bad language was also a plus!
This book was a real page turner, an excellent mystery and a great continuation of the series about Tess. No bad language was also a plus!
February 26, 2022
Excellent book, well written! Tess Spencer is a strong Christian woman with good friends and family. Hope she and her mom can continue to get back together.
December 18, 2017
Heather Day Gilbert has got another winner on her hands with her newest Murder in The Mountains novel, Guilt by Association. Gilbert tackles the very timely subject of opioid addiction and drug overdoses as Tess returns to her roots. Smart, witty, and insightful, this novel is perfect for fans of a good mystery. Highly recommended!
Wife and mother, Tess Spencer finds trouble wherever she goes, and when she returns to her hometown, a dead body shows up on her mother’s doorstep. Due to her stint in jail for drug dealing, all evidence points to Tess’ mother Pearletta Vee. But Tess refuses to believe her mother would resort to murder, and sets out to find the real perpetrator.
Tess’ return to her mother’s trailer and the town in which she grew up, causes her to confront the past — her mother’s drug-dealing, her father’s abandonment, and her own determination to end the cycle of of broken lives and relationships. Tess is a complex character, and in Guilt by Association the reader sees the influences that make Tess who she is. Never one to shy away from a dangerous situation, Tess finds herself in more than a few in this novel. Her mama-bear instincts kick in as well. I loved the sub-plot introduced in which she intervenes in a child’s abusive home life. Tess’ investigation progresses slowly (not a bad thing) with lots of suspects and plot twists. I was surprised by whodunit, and the uncovering of the murderer is filled with suspense and danger — wonderful page-turning action. Gilbert handles the subject matter of the drug epidemic in an honest and thoughtful manner, and she sheds light on the heartbreak that accompanies the snare of drugs. The only negative I found is the limited involvement of Tess’ stalker/florist. Axel is a great character and was on the spot when Tess needed him. But I just have to know more about this mysterious German giant! 😉
Guilt by Association is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone. But you don’t want to miss any of Tess’ adventures, so start at the beginning with Miranda Warning. You may want to consider binge-reading all three novels during your Christmas break — just saying. 😉
Highly Recommended.
Audience: older teens and adults.
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Wife and mother, Tess Spencer finds trouble wherever she goes, and when she returns to her hometown, a dead body shows up on her mother’s doorstep. Due to her stint in jail for drug dealing, all evidence points to Tess’ mother Pearletta Vee. But Tess refuses to believe her mother would resort to murder, and sets out to find the real perpetrator.
Tess’ return to her mother’s trailer and the town in which she grew up, causes her to confront the past — her mother’s drug-dealing, her father’s abandonment, and her own determination to end the cycle of of broken lives and relationships. Tess is a complex character, and in Guilt by Association the reader sees the influences that make Tess who she is. Never one to shy away from a dangerous situation, Tess finds herself in more than a few in this novel. Her mama-bear instincts kick in as well. I loved the sub-plot introduced in which she intervenes in a child’s abusive home life. Tess’ investigation progresses slowly (not a bad thing) with lots of suspects and plot twists. I was surprised by whodunit, and the uncovering of the murderer is filled with suspense and danger — wonderful page-turning action. Gilbert handles the subject matter of the drug epidemic in an honest and thoughtful manner, and she sheds light on the heartbreak that accompanies the snare of drugs. The only negative I found is the limited involvement of Tess’ stalker/florist. Axel is a great character and was on the spot when Tess needed him. But I just have to know more about this mysterious German giant! 😉
Guilt by Association is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone. But you don’t want to miss any of Tess’ adventures, so start at the beginning with Miranda Warning. You may want to consider binge-reading all three novels during your Christmas break — just saying. 😉
Highly Recommended.
Audience: older teens and adults.
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
December 2, 2017
Guilt by Association is the third book in the award-winning Murder in the Mountains mystery series. This is another great book by Heather Gilbert……Tess Spencer reluctantly agrees to visit her mother who has recently got out of prison. Her intentions are to stay a short while and return home to her husband and daughter. She never had a good relationship with her mother while growing up and since her mother went to prison for dealing drugs, even less. Her mother assures her she has turned over a new leaf, but Tess is not sure if she has. She only came to go with her mother to look at real estate as Pearletta Vee wants to move out of the trailer that Tess grew up in. As the realtor arrives he tells them there is a young man lying along side of the house. He appears to be dead. Tess call the Sheriff and when she goes back in the house her mother is packed and leaving, not saying where she is going……. Pearletta knows they will believe she is responsible whether she is or not……Tess is faced with the thought did her mother sell drugs to the young man? Why is he in her mother’s yard? What to do? She thinks she will just run back home to her husband and child. But if her mother is innocent, can she just up and leave? There are so many twists and turns, ins and out. New evidence unfolds, danger abounds and tenderhearted Tess cannot leave until she gets to the bottom of this frightfully puzzling situation. You will be sitting on the edge of your seat as you ponder who is the murderer and will he strike again and who will be his victim? I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery…..I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review, but am pleased to do so.
December 22, 2017
Another thrilling mystery!
Guilt by Association is the highly anticipated next installment in Heather Day Gilbert’s Murder in the Mountain series. And it does not disappoint. Only this time, instead of a serial killer, Tess is taking on the local drug dealers in an attempt to vindicate her mom, who is the prime suspect in a teen’s overdose. Facades and lies abound in this thrilling adventure as Tess races against time to discover the murderer, before another innocent person is killed.
Just when I think that the next mystery cannot possibly be better than the last, Heather Day Gilbert surprises me again. This was an amazing mystery that kept me guessing about the true killer’s identity until the very end and I couldn’t put it down.
But, my favorite part of this mystery series is the multiple layers of depth in each one. This is not just a good mystery. It’s also a great story about fun, realistic characters. While the mystery is the driving force, I love the characters just as much as the suspense. Tess is an awesome character and the rest of her family and friends are a fun, colorful bunch that I wish I could meet.
Not only does Heather Day Gilbert do an excellent job developing pre-existing favorites, but she also adds in new characters that are just as interesting. While I missed Charlotte in this book, I loved getting to see Detective Tucker again and am looking forward to seeing more of him in future books. I am also looking forward to finding out more about the mysterious, yet ever-helpful Axel. But, even with all these awesome characters, my favorite part was the introduction of Brady. I loved him and his interactions with Tess. He was a sweet, adorable character and I cannot wait to see more of him in the next book.
Guilt by Association is the highly anticipated next installment in Heather Day Gilbert’s Murder in the Mountain series. And it does not disappoint. Only this time, instead of a serial killer, Tess is taking on the local drug dealers in an attempt to vindicate her mom, who is the prime suspect in a teen’s overdose. Facades and lies abound in this thrilling adventure as Tess races against time to discover the murderer, before another innocent person is killed.
Just when I think that the next mystery cannot possibly be better than the last, Heather Day Gilbert surprises me again. This was an amazing mystery that kept me guessing about the true killer’s identity until the very end and I couldn’t put it down.
But, my favorite part of this mystery series is the multiple layers of depth in each one. This is not just a good mystery. It’s also a great story about fun, realistic characters. While the mystery is the driving force, I love the characters just as much as the suspense. Tess is an awesome character and the rest of her family and friends are a fun, colorful bunch that I wish I could meet.
Not only does Heather Day Gilbert do an excellent job developing pre-existing favorites, but she also adds in new characters that are just as interesting. While I missed Charlotte in this book, I loved getting to see Detective Tucker again and am looking forward to seeing more of him in future books. I am also looking forward to finding out more about the mysterious, yet ever-helpful Axel. But, even with all these awesome characters, my favorite part was the introduction of Brady. I loved him and his interactions with Tess. He was a sweet, adorable character and I cannot wait to see more of him in the next book.
December 6, 2017
This is the third installment in the Murder in the Mountains series. Tess Spencer is back fearless, gritty, determined, and lives life to the fullest in trying to help with the drug epidemic in the hills of WV. She is a character you will fall in love with and enjoy getting to know her heart and what drives her. I throughly enjoy the author’s style of writing and how Faith is intertwined within the story. At times it had me nervous with the choices she made and the dangers she faced, but it makes for a wonderful package that is tied up nicely with a big bow at the ending. It kept me guessing and therefore I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
February 8, 2018
This is the 3rd in the series and hopefully there will be more. I enjoy following Tess and her family.
Tess Spencer is a modern day "Nancy Drew" and somehow murder always seems to follow her.
She is married to the Prosecuting Attorney of their town, and has a 2 year old baby girl.
This time she is off to visit her mother who has just been released from prison. Her Mother claims that she has turned her life around, gotten off the drugs and selling them and wants to find a new home, so Tess is off to help her. But, there is a knock on the door when Tess arrives at her mother's, it is the Realtor that was supposed to show them some properties. He just found a dead body in her Mother's yard. Her mother is scared because if it who she thinks it is, he is on drugs and she thinks they will accuse her.
After the police arrive and Tess goes back to her mothers trailer, she finds her mother missing. While trying to find some clues as to where her mother might have gone, she finds some drugs in her mothers house. So is her mother back dealing drugs and is she responsible for the man's death.
She will still be working with Detective Zeke and he has even offered her a job as being an assistant when she gets back home. But nothing is going to keep Tess from finding her mother, even dealing with drug dealers. She enlists the help of Rosemary to find out who the killer is, but will she find out things she doesn't want to know? Is her Mother involved?
Another great one and hope that there will be another one out!
Tess Spencer is a modern day "Nancy Drew" and somehow murder always seems to follow her.
She is married to the Prosecuting Attorney of their town, and has a 2 year old baby girl.
This time she is off to visit her mother who has just been released from prison. Her Mother claims that she has turned her life around, gotten off the drugs and selling them and wants to find a new home, so Tess is off to help her. But, there is a knock on the door when Tess arrives at her mother's, it is the Realtor that was supposed to show them some properties. He just found a dead body in her Mother's yard. Her mother is scared because if it who she thinks it is, he is on drugs and she thinks they will accuse her.
After the police arrive and Tess goes back to her mothers trailer, she finds her mother missing. While trying to find some clues as to where her mother might have gone, she finds some drugs in her mothers house. So is her mother back dealing drugs and is she responsible for the man's death.
She will still be working with Detective Zeke and he has even offered her a job as being an assistant when she gets back home. But nothing is going to keep Tess from finding her mother, even dealing with drug dealers. She enlists the help of Rosemary to find out who the killer is, but will she find out things she doesn't want to know? Is her Mother involved?
Another great one and hope that there will be another one out!
December 5, 2017
Yet another clean, fun mystery by Heather Day Gilbert. It's a fast read - you won't want to put it down. Guilt By Association is the third book in the Murder in the Mountains series (all excellent, by the way), and in it, we delve deeper into the heroine's background and her complicated relationship with her mother. Love this author and can't wait to read more of her books!
July 13, 2018
This is the third installment in the Murder in the Mountains series. While the story stands alone, I strongly recommend reading the first 2 first. This book delves into Tess's past and we get to actually see her with her mom first-hand. The book starts with Tess heading to visit her mom and help her find a new home, when a dead body shows up outside her mom's trailer. When it becomes evident that someone is trying to frame her mom, Tess stays awhile to clear her name. In the process, she makes some new friends, relies on some old friends, and once again finds herself in some sticky situations. This was a great read! I'm hopeful to see this series continue!
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