An Odd and Troubling Quest
Ninth Grave is the ninth book in Kathi Daley’s Writers’ Retreat Mystery series. Ms. Daley’s writing style flows smoothly at a steady pace. This is a clean read, the characters are well rounded and likable, and the mystery is well plotted and intriguing. The pages of this book are filled with caring and compassionate characters, a unique and complex mystery, plus a touch of sweet romance. There are enough twists and red herrings to keep the reader engaged and guessing until the startling and unexpected reveal. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery.
Jack Jones, one of the residents at Gull Island Writer’s Retreat, asks the members the Mystery Mastermind Group to consider looking into an unusual case. Jack, the owner of the local newspaper and a published author, received an email that he first thought was fan mail, but after saying how much he enjoyed Jack’s books, especially the last novel, the writer, Sam, went on to say that he could identify with the main character since he, too, had killed multiple people. Sam’s killing spree lasted four years, and five of his victims have never been found. Sam went on to say he was ready for it to end and wanted Jack to locate the unmarked graves before there was a ninth victim. Everyone was leery, fearing it was a trap set by a serial killer, but with the hope of saving someone’s life, Jack, Jill, and their dog, Kizzy, set out on an emotional journey. Jill’s worried about Clara who’s having horrible nightmares, and wonders if they might somehow be related to Sam’s killing spree. As Sam feeds them information, their friend, Deputy Rick Savage, helps them follow the clues provided by Sam, identify the victims, and smooth the way with local authorities when necessary. Jack is surprised when his mother announces that she’s met a man who she plans to marry. While Jack wants her to be happy, but he becomes quite concerned when he learns that the man is thirty-four years younger than his mother is.