Lindstrom's Progress

by John Moss

Intrigued by the unlikely invitation from a detective in Vienna to prove she murdered her lover, Harry Lindstrom finds himself in a strained alliance with a woman who seems to have stepped out of a painting by Klimt. His chaotic pursuit to unravel her story leads him home to Toronto, then back to Vienna, Salzburg, and salt mines near the ancient village of Hallstadtt, where stories from the past and present merge with horrific finality. Lindstrom's Progress is the second in a trilogy, between Lindstrom Alone and Lindstrom Unbound.

253 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2018

About the author

John Moss writes mysteries because nothing brings life into focus like the murder of strangers. Elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2006 in recognition of his career as a professor of Canadian literature with over a score of books in his field, John moved progressively away from literary criticism to creative writing, before settling comfortably into the Quin and Morgan series which now occupies his writing efforts full time. He and his wife, Beverley Haun, whose book, Inventing ‘Easter Island’, grew out of her work as a cultural theorist and their travel adventures as scuba divers, share a stone farmhouse with numerous ghosts in Peterborough, Ontario. Recently sidelined from his diving avocation (he was an instructor in both PADI and SDI programs), John and Bev have no intention of giving up whitewater canoeing and cross-country skiing with old friends, or taking long hikes in interesting places around the world.

John is professor emeritus at the University of Ottawa.

Reviews

[Jim Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Moss has created memorable characters such as the Beau Brummell Simon Wales (whom Harry hires as a researcher) that enliven the story and keep the reader’s interest as we follow Harry from ordeal to ordeal. There is a dash of humour as well, such as Harry’s too-easily compromised security system, which is a running joke. The intricate storyline and dialogues are well executed, resulting in an elevated type of literary murder mystery; one that deals with such varied themes as religion, morality, guilt, and facing and accepting reality. In short, a taut and interesting story, great characters and several plot twists that will surprise you. Highly recommended for crime fiction enthusiasts looking for something a little different.

[Theresa James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love psychological thrillers and mysteries, and Lindstrom's Progress gives me both! I found it to have a good mix of foreign and domestic corrupt social systems; dodgy characters that give my intuitions the 'Heebie-Jeebies'; interesting philosophical conversations; education through history, art and travel; unlikely hard-earned friendships; a couple of chuckles here and there; and mildly jolting surprise twists and revelations. I thoroughly enjoyed this story!