Oh my goodness, I'm glad that I didn't have anything I had to get done because once I started reading I could NOT put this book down! I love how the author paints the picture of the setting because I had the exact place this story (and the others in the series) in my mind's eye while it was taking place. I followed it through the small town and out to the country, past the corn fields to the "mountain". I see the sunsets and small fishing pond (from novel #1 that had another appearance here) along with the moments you only truly understand if you grew up in a small mid-west town.
Hillary's books keep getting better and better with twists, turns, ups and downs that are all tied together neatly in the end. I love that there are surprises and moments where I am thinking...what the heck? How is that going to turn out! All of the books can stand alone but since characters from other stories make an appearance, it is best to read them in order if you don't want "plot spoilers".
If you like a to read romance, mystery and comedy, give this series a read! BUT that comes with a warning, once you start the books, you won't want to put them down! I found myself nervous, excited, crying, laughing and holding my breath throughout this whole book. Give it a read and then recommend it to your friends! How long until book #4?! (no doubt it is too long for this Coal Country fan!)