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Carolina Slade #5
Salkehatchie Secret
A dead federal agent and Lowcountry secrets stir up a hornet’s nest. . .A Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan crossover!(A stand-alone mystery)
Carolina Slade’s long awaited engagement is put on hold as Senior Special Agent Wayne Largo leads the manhunt for his missing partner—a naïve fresh recruit, who may have jumped the gun on an investigation from Slade’s case load. When the agent is found dead next door to the jurisdiction of friend and Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Morgan, Slade calls in a favor to add support for Wayne’s investigation. Soon the two women are hip-deep in the secrets, black water swampland, and farms of the Salkehatchie region.
And anyone attempting to uncover those secrets gambles with their life.
Carolina Slade’s long awaited engagement is put on hold as Senior Special Agent Wayne Largo leads the manhunt for his missing partner—a naïve fresh recruit, who may have jumped the gun on an investigation from Slade’s case load. When the agent is found dead next door to the jurisdiction of friend and Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Morgan, Slade calls in a favor to add support for Wayne’s investigation. Soon the two women are hip-deep in the secrets, black water swampland, and farms of the Salkehatchie region.
And anyone attempting to uncover those secrets gambles with their life.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2020
31 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
C. Hope Clark
40 books658 followersC. Hope Clark was born and reared in the South, from Mississippi to South Carolina with a few stints in Alabama and Georgia. The granddaughter of a Mississippi cotton farmer, Hope holds a B.S. in Agriculture with honors from Clemson University and 25 years’ experience with the U. S. Department of Agriculture to include awards for her management, all of which enable her to talk the talk of Carolina Slade, the protagonist in most of her novels. Her love of writing, however, carried her up the ranks to the ability to retire young, and she left USDA to pen her stories and freelance.
Lowcountry Bribe‘s won several awards to include finalist status of the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense sponsored by Romance Writers of America. The novel enjoyed semi-finalist status (top 100 out of 10,000) in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Contest. The book went on to win the Silver Falchion Award for Crime Fiction twice and the EPIC E-book Award for Best Mystery three times.
Her books cover three mystery series in the Carolina Slade Mysteries, the Edisto Island Mysteries, and the Craven County Mysteries.
Hope is married to a 30-year veteran of federal law enforcement, a Senior Special Agent, now a contract investigator. They met on a bribery investigation within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the basis for the opening scene to Lowcountry Bribe. Hope and her special agent live on the rural banks of Lake Murray outside of Chapin, South Carolina, forever spinning tales on their back porch, bourbon and coke in hand, when not tending a loveable flock of hens.
She also currently manages FundsforWriters.com, a weekly newsletter service she founded that reaches 28,000 writers to include university professors, professional journalists and published mystery authors. Writer’s Digest has recognized the site in its annual 101 Best Web Sites for Writers for two dozen years.
She’s published in The Writer Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and other trade and online publications. She speaks at writers’ conferences, book clubs, libraries and more, and has taught many webinars for the Writer's Digest University world. Hope is a member of Mystery Writers of America.
Lowcountry Bribe‘s won several awards to include finalist status of the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense sponsored by Romance Writers of America. The novel enjoyed semi-finalist status (top 100 out of 10,000) in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Contest. The book went on to win the Silver Falchion Award for Crime Fiction twice and the EPIC E-book Award for Best Mystery three times.
Her books cover three mystery series in the Carolina Slade Mysteries, the Edisto Island Mysteries, and the Craven County Mysteries.
Hope is married to a 30-year veteran of federal law enforcement, a Senior Special Agent, now a contract investigator. They met on a bribery investigation within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the basis for the opening scene to Lowcountry Bribe. Hope and her special agent live on the rural banks of Lake Murray outside of Chapin, South Carolina, forever spinning tales on their back porch, bourbon and coke in hand, when not tending a loveable flock of hens.
She also currently manages FundsforWriters.com, a weekly newsletter service she founded that reaches 28,000 writers to include university professors, professional journalists and published mystery authors. Writer’s Digest has recognized the site in its annual 101 Best Web Sites for Writers for two dozen years.
She’s published in The Writer Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and other trade and online publications. She speaks at writers’ conferences, book clubs, libraries and more, and has taught many webinars for the Writer's Digest University world. Hope is a member of Mystery Writers of America.
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June 21, 2020
Salkehatchie Secret
C. Hope Clark
Bell Bridge Books, Copyright 2020
229 pages
Book Review by
Marion Aldridge
Salkehatchie Secret officially became the hardest book for me to put down—ever. I’m an avid reader, a book always in my hand. I read classics, mysteries, history, biography, and adventure. It’s not unusual for me to read a half-dozen pages, set my book aside, accomplish a task or two, and pick the book up again. Sometimes I read a genuine page-turner, but nothing gets in the way of my naps, my meals, or my work, sometimes in that order.
I’ve read other books by Hope Clark, and I enjoy the South Carolina low country setting. the interesting characters, and her way with words. She’s skilled at her craft and has a way with words. I knew all that.
But I wasn’t quite prepared for the compelling plot and complications that had me wanting to know, desperately, what was next in Salkehatchie Secret. The old saw for a mystery writer is that a body needs to fall out of the closet in the first two pages. Within the first ten pages, Clark had a romantic engagement scene involving her heroine Carolina Slade and Slade’s beau, Wayne Largo, followed immediately by the murder of Largo’s first-day-on-the-job new partner, Jasmine Bright. In case a body falling out of a closet is not compelling enough, Clark served up Bright’s body in the woods of a Salkehatchie farm, apparently murdered by the multiple stings from hornets whose nest she had disturbed. Or, was it a murder?
So, we have the beginning of many mysteries that Carolina Slade will have to unravel.
When I read whodunits, I like for there to be some educational component to supplement the entertainment. Dorothy Sayers’s novels, and her hero Lord Peter Wimsey, teach me something about England’s upper classes. When I read Tony Hillerman, and follow his heroes, Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn, I learn something about Navajo culture. When I immerse myself in John D. MacDonald, and his hero Travis McGee, I fantasize about the life of a Florida beach and boat bum—until the shooting starts. Some authors lure readers into their cat or cooking mysteries, but I’ve not been impressed with those.
What is Clark’s niche? She is utterly unique. She has at least two that pull me in. The first is the South Carolina low country, including the barrier islands, especially Edisto Beach. But the low country of South Carolina also includes marshes, rivers, deltas, swamps, farms, hunting, fishing, and fine food, from shrimp and grits, to venison and turkey, palmetto and pine trees, sea turtles and moccasins. Clark knows the lay of the land, the flora and fauna.
Prior to developing her skills as a writer, Clark served in various capacities in world of agriculture. She knows the difference in soybeans and crowder peas. As an investigator for the federal government, she also knows the sleazier side of farming—borrowing federally secured loans to grow corn but growing marijuana instead. I didn’t know there were so many ways for farmers and rural landowners to cheat the government and abuse consumers until I started reading Clark’s novels. As my friends often hear me say, “There are world’s I know nothing about.” And I don’t need to know much more about this world than I discover by reading Clark’s novels. But what she knows is enough to fill several books.
In Salkehatchie Secret, is the bad guy using government money to fund an anti-government militia? Or, is the hidden reality a cross-racial romance? Or, is a federal agent being bribed to alter a farm’s bookkeeping? Or, none of the above? Or, all of the above? And how can you possibly murder someone with hornet stings? Or, a John Deere tractor?
You’ll have to purchase Salkehatchie Secret to get the answers. When you do, don’t plan to get much sleep.
C. Hope Clark
Bell Bridge Books, Copyright 2020
229 pages
Book Review by
Marion Aldridge
Salkehatchie Secret officially became the hardest book for me to put down—ever. I’m an avid reader, a book always in my hand. I read classics, mysteries, history, biography, and adventure. It’s not unusual for me to read a half-dozen pages, set my book aside, accomplish a task or two, and pick the book up again. Sometimes I read a genuine page-turner, but nothing gets in the way of my naps, my meals, or my work, sometimes in that order.
I’ve read other books by Hope Clark, and I enjoy the South Carolina low country setting. the interesting characters, and her way with words. She’s skilled at her craft and has a way with words. I knew all that.
But I wasn’t quite prepared for the compelling plot and complications that had me wanting to know, desperately, what was next in Salkehatchie Secret. The old saw for a mystery writer is that a body needs to fall out of the closet in the first two pages. Within the first ten pages, Clark had a romantic engagement scene involving her heroine Carolina Slade and Slade’s beau, Wayne Largo, followed immediately by the murder of Largo’s first-day-on-the-job new partner, Jasmine Bright. In case a body falling out of a closet is not compelling enough, Clark served up Bright’s body in the woods of a Salkehatchie farm, apparently murdered by the multiple stings from hornets whose nest she had disturbed. Or, was it a murder?
So, we have the beginning of many mysteries that Carolina Slade will have to unravel.
When I read whodunits, I like for there to be some educational component to supplement the entertainment. Dorothy Sayers’s novels, and her hero Lord Peter Wimsey, teach me something about England’s upper classes. When I read Tony Hillerman, and follow his heroes, Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn, I learn something about Navajo culture. When I immerse myself in John D. MacDonald, and his hero Travis McGee, I fantasize about the life of a Florida beach and boat bum—until the shooting starts. Some authors lure readers into their cat or cooking mysteries, but I’ve not been impressed with those.
What is Clark’s niche? She is utterly unique. She has at least two that pull me in. The first is the South Carolina low country, including the barrier islands, especially Edisto Beach. But the low country of South Carolina also includes marshes, rivers, deltas, swamps, farms, hunting, fishing, and fine food, from shrimp and grits, to venison and turkey, palmetto and pine trees, sea turtles and moccasins. Clark knows the lay of the land, the flora and fauna.
Prior to developing her skills as a writer, Clark served in various capacities in world of agriculture. She knows the difference in soybeans and crowder peas. As an investigator for the federal government, she also knows the sleazier side of farming—borrowing federally secured loans to grow corn but growing marijuana instead. I didn’t know there were so many ways for farmers and rural landowners to cheat the government and abuse consumers until I started reading Clark’s novels. As my friends often hear me say, “There are world’s I know nothing about.” And I don’t need to know much more about this world than I discover by reading Clark’s novels. But what she knows is enough to fill several books.
In Salkehatchie Secret, is the bad guy using government money to fund an anti-government militia? Or, is the hidden reality a cross-racial romance? Or, is a federal agent being bribed to alter a farm’s bookkeeping? Or, none of the above? Or, all of the above? And how can you possibly murder someone with hornet stings? Or, a John Deere tractor?
You’ll have to purchase Salkehatchie Secret to get the answers. When you do, don’t plan to get much sleep.
July 20, 2020
Reading a C Hope Clark book is like bingeing on Netflix or indulging in a TNT Marathon of your favorite old-school TV series. The family could be starving, the laundry stacked a mile high, the dog’s begging to be let out, or it is the wee hours, and you KNOW you should be in bed so you will be functional the next day, but there is no way to stop! Clark’s newest release, Salkehatchie Secret, continues in this tradition. Just when you believe you’ve reached a lull giving you time to grab a snack or take a potty break, BOOM! The action revs back up. Clark does not believe in “downtime.”
Salkehatchie Secret is the fifth book in the five that make up the Carolina Slade Mystery series. It is the second in which C Hope brings in Police Chief Callie Morgan from her Edisto Island Mysteries series. Slade and Callie continue building on the friendship that started in their initial meeting. An unlikely duo as Slade is a bit shoot-from-the-hip, knee-jerk reactive compared to Callie’s more regimented, deliberately calculated demeanor. They make things work, not only out of their mutual respect for Senior Special Agent Wayne Largo (Slade’s work partner and soon-to-be life partner) but also for their collective desire for truth and justice and heated passion for bringing the bad guys and gals down.
This crossover not only blends the styles of Slade and Callie, but it seamlessly rolls together the agricultural investigations at the Federal level along with the local police procedures that must accompany when a murder is thrown in the mix. Add the colorful characters of the Salkehatchie Lowcountry blackwater swamplands and farms to the fray, all holding secrets tight to the chest. Toss in an Agriculture Assistant Manager going rogue and shooting out Special Agent Largo’s tires, marital indiscretions, racial tensions, possible pot crops, and militia wannabes fully equipped with automatic assault rifles. You are now on C Hope Clark’s new wild ride called Salkehatchie Secret. Buckle up, Buttercup!
Salkehatchie Secret is the fifth book in the five that make up the Carolina Slade Mystery series. It is the second in which C Hope brings in Police Chief Callie Morgan from her Edisto Island Mysteries series. Slade and Callie continue building on the friendship that started in their initial meeting. An unlikely duo as Slade is a bit shoot-from-the-hip, knee-jerk reactive compared to Callie’s more regimented, deliberately calculated demeanor. They make things work, not only out of their mutual respect for Senior Special Agent Wayne Largo (Slade’s work partner and soon-to-be life partner) but also for their collective desire for truth and justice and heated passion for bringing the bad guys and gals down.
This crossover not only blends the styles of Slade and Callie, but it seamlessly rolls together the agricultural investigations at the Federal level along with the local police procedures that must accompany when a murder is thrown in the mix. Add the colorful characters of the Salkehatchie Lowcountry blackwater swamplands and farms to the fray, all holding secrets tight to the chest. Toss in an Agriculture Assistant Manager going rogue and shooting out Special Agent Largo’s tires, marital indiscretions, racial tensions, possible pot crops, and militia wannabes fully equipped with automatic assault rifles. You are now on C Hope Clark’s new wild ride called Salkehatchie Secret. Buckle up, Buttercup!
June 19, 2020
Another intriguing mystery
Hope brings us another page turner with murder, mayhem and this time she added militia.
You won't want to put this down until you have to.
Agent Wayne Largo has an eager new partner and finally gets an engagement ring on Slade's finger. With the hope of easing his new partner in on what "appears to be" a simple case of an unpaid farm loan, things don't go as planned , putting a damper on the engagement. The plot continues to go deeper and more twisted. Slade teams up with Chief Callie Morgan while Largo investigates the latest murder.
Well written with surprises around every corner. A highly recommended read.
Hope brings us another page turner with murder, mayhem and this time she added militia.
You won't want to put this down until you have to.
Agent Wayne Largo has an eager new partner and finally gets an engagement ring on Slade's finger. With the hope of easing his new partner in on what "appears to be" a simple case of an unpaid farm loan, things don't go as planned , putting a damper on the engagement. The plot continues to go deeper and more twisted. Slade teams up with Chief Callie Morgan while Largo investigates the latest murder.
Well written with surprises around every corner. A highly recommended read.
February 19, 2021
Officially the fifth of the Carolina Slade mystery series by South Carolina author C. Hope Clark, Salkehatchie Secret is truly one-of-a-kind in its genre. The author also pens another series, The Edisto Island Mysteries, with its lead character being that of Callie Logan. In Salkehatchie Secret, the two series by Clark meet in a crossover crime that is full of secrets and sin as USDA Special Projects Investigative Agent Carolina Slade partners up with Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Logan.
The two join forces to solve the mystery surrounding a new agent’s death on what was supposed to be the new agent’s first day on a “textbook” investigation. The new agent, Jasmine Bright, is found murdered on the morning after meeting Slade and her fiancé, Special Agent Wayne Largo, for dinner and deliberations. Largo also happens to be the new agent’s assigned partner on the pending case.
I was given a copy of the book by the author so that I could read and review it. I have read many, but not all, in both the Slade and Edisto series by Clark. They have all kept me reading from cover to cover from start to finish almost without even taking a restroom or refreshment break!
The author is exceptionally skilled at keeping the pace progressing forward – never a dull paragraph, trailing thought, or lost plot piece. The characters, including Carolina, Callie, Wayne, Jasmine, “The” St. Clair Simmons, Connor, and all the others are easy to imagine and fit particularly well in their contextual forms. The author’s own professional acumen, and that of her husband’s, have served her very well in the story development within each book of both mystery series, and Salkehatchie Secret is no exception.
I was indeed surprised by the plot twist, involving the Lowcountry characters of St. Clair Simmons and Maggie Bright, that can only be solidified in the reader’s mind when you consider the story’s geographical setting. I was also saddened by the development with Connor Boone’s character, and that as well when considering the fate of his wife, Rebecca. As law enforcement, Edisto Police Chief Callie Logan, Callie’s Deputy Don Raysor, and Special Agent Wayne Largo all hold their own quite well as effective peacekeepers and proven crime solvers, as does Carolina Slade herself.
After reaching the end of this story, I was left wondering, will Chief Callie Logan and Deputy Don Raysor end up with a similar partner tome to share as Slade and Largo did?
The two join forces to solve the mystery surrounding a new agent’s death on what was supposed to be the new agent’s first day on a “textbook” investigation. The new agent, Jasmine Bright, is found murdered on the morning after meeting Slade and her fiancé, Special Agent Wayne Largo, for dinner and deliberations. Largo also happens to be the new agent’s assigned partner on the pending case.
I was given a copy of the book by the author so that I could read and review it. I have read many, but not all, in both the Slade and Edisto series by Clark. They have all kept me reading from cover to cover from start to finish almost without even taking a restroom or refreshment break!
The author is exceptionally skilled at keeping the pace progressing forward – never a dull paragraph, trailing thought, or lost plot piece. The characters, including Carolina, Callie, Wayne, Jasmine, “The” St. Clair Simmons, Connor, and all the others are easy to imagine and fit particularly well in their contextual forms. The author’s own professional acumen, and that of her husband’s, have served her very well in the story development within each book of both mystery series, and Salkehatchie Secret is no exception.
I was indeed surprised by the plot twist, involving the Lowcountry characters of St. Clair Simmons and Maggie Bright, that can only be solidified in the reader’s mind when you consider the story’s geographical setting. I was also saddened by the development with Connor Boone’s character, and that as well when considering the fate of his wife, Rebecca. As law enforcement, Edisto Police Chief Callie Logan, Callie’s Deputy Don Raysor, and Special Agent Wayne Largo all hold their own quite well as effective peacekeepers and proven crime solvers, as does Carolina Slade herself.
After reaching the end of this story, I was left wondering, will Chief Callie Logan and Deputy Don Raysor end up with a similar partner tome to share as Slade and Largo did?
January 26, 2021
Another fun and intriguing read by C. Hope Clark. Salkehatchie Secrets feature two characters from Carolina Slade Mystery Series and the Edisto Island Series, Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan. Slade, a Special Projects Representative with the U.S, Department of Agriculture and Callie Morgan, former Boston Police Department Detective, who through a series of sometimes difficult and painful twists and turns landed on Edisto Island near Charleston, S.C. where she eventually became their Chief of Police. These two spunky women came to know one another when Slade and her U.S, Department of Agriculture boyfriend were vacationing on Edisto Island and became unintentionally embroiled in one of Callie’s more intriguing and complex cases which resulted in a permanent bond between the threesome. Due to a mysterious turn of events Slade and Wayne’s wedding proposal turned engagement dinner was suddenly interrupted by a call from the the mother of Wayne’s brand new 23 year old USDA investigative partner trying to locate her daughter who had previously that night dined with Slade and Wayne. They immediately headed to Colleton County where the young new agent was to be headed to visit her mother. Colleton County Deputy Raysor was assigned to Edisto Island to assist the small police force there on a permanent basis. He was dispatched to assist in the search and was accompanied by Chief Morgan due to her previous working relationship with Slade and Wayne. Deputy Raysor, who either knows or is related to everyone in the county was could provide added insight to the investigation. What started as a missing agent quickly evolved into a web of deceit, lies, misinformation and multiple murders. I was totally riveted by the story line and remained on the edge of my seat as the many events began to unfold and the mystery tightly pulled together in the end by my two favorite heroines with the assistance of a great cast of characters. I found my reactions running from surprise to emotional. You won’t regret reading the entire Carolina Slade and Edisto Island series and will, as I, find yourself waiting for the next book!
March 18, 2021
I’ve already come to know and love Police Chief Callie Morgan. In Salkehatchie Secret I’m getting to know Carolina Slade. I love the friendship the two have developed—and I love the two series crossover.
This story, though! Seriously, y’all!!
Newbie Jasmine rubbed me wrong—too sure of herself and cocky. Honestly, I began to wonder if she was investigating or involved…
St. Clair Simmons was a piece of work, and like Jasmine, I couldn’t decide how much he was guilty of…
There’s a regular line-up of suspects and red herrings, and besides the one [SPOILER] that I figured out (and I wasn’t sure so sure of that) identifying the killer—indeed, determining if it was actually murder—was a nearly impossible task.
This reader may have developed a small reader-crush on Special Agent Wayne Largo. His attention to and patience with Slade is hard to come by. And his proposal was heart melting. That the two of them worked the case together threw some serious hurdles in their investigative path, and put their relationship in the hot seat.
And Slade. I admire her determination and dedication, to her job and to the people in her life. I met her briefly in Dying on Edisto, when she first met Callie. I like the way she works and look forward to catching up on all the books in the Carolina Slade series.
Ms. Clark tugs and pulls at her characters, bringing out (beating) both the worst and best in them. She has twisted this story with every page all the way to the totally unexpected ending!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Salkehatchie Secret, C. Hope Clark, The Carolina Slade Mysteries
This story, though! Seriously, y’all!!
Newbie Jasmine rubbed me wrong—too sure of herself and cocky. Honestly, I began to wonder if she was investigating or involved…
St. Clair Simmons was a piece of work, and like Jasmine, I couldn’t decide how much he was guilty of…
There’s a regular line-up of suspects and red herrings, and besides the one [SPOILER] that I figured out (and I wasn’t sure so sure of that) identifying the killer—indeed, determining if it was actually murder—was a nearly impossible task.
This reader may have developed a small reader-crush on Special Agent Wayne Largo. His attention to and patience with Slade is hard to come by. And his proposal was heart melting. That the two of them worked the case together threw some serious hurdles in their investigative path, and put their relationship in the hot seat.
And Slade. I admire her determination and dedication, to her job and to the people in her life. I met her briefly in Dying on Edisto, when she first met Callie. I like the way she works and look forward to catching up on all the books in the Carolina Slade series.
Ms. Clark tugs and pulls at her characters, bringing out (beating) both the worst and best in them. She has twisted this story with every page all the way to the totally unexpected ending!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Salkehatchie Secret, C. Hope Clark, The Carolina Slade Mysteries
June 26, 2020
Salkehatchie Secret by C. Hope Clark is one of those books that you read for a few minutes and the clock reads two hours later. The storyline is riveting, keeping you engaged much longer than you anticipated because you can't stop turning the pages. Carolina Slade is someone you don't want to underestimate. She is smart, courageous, and doesn't like to sit around while the boys do all the work. Special Agent Wayne Largo is sexy and manly and what dreams are made of in a partner for life. Slade and Wayne want to spend their lives together, but the world had other plans for them. It all happened one fateful night before an investigation into St. Clair Simmons's failed farming venture. There is a death, a shooting, and a secret within the farmer's compound. This farm's location brings in Chief Callie Morgan and Deputy Don Raysor, whom we all know and love. Callie and Slade continue to strengthen their female bond as they are thrown into the case with a lot of questions and little answers. I love their shared moments of wisdom and advice. The setting is mostly nighttime, which sets the mood as being very dark and somber. The description of the scenes is always spot on. I always felt right there when the action occurred and wanted to give my two cents to the characters. The only thing I wished to see more of is Slade and Wayne together. I know it is part of their job to be apart and adds to the plot, but I wanted to see them interact more and really get to the depth of their feelings with each other. Even if they showed emotions differently. Maybe this will happen in future novels. Speaking of that, I CANNOT wait to read the next one. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs an escape from the world for a few hours or days.
August 11, 2021
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. The first and perhaps most important thing to note about the story is that it accelerates as it progresses. It begins with an intriguing dichotomy – the engagement of agricultural investigator Carolina Slade to her longtime boyfriend FBI Special Agent Wayne Largo, immediately followed by knowledge of the disappearance of Largo’s rookie partner. What unfolds is a brisk, tense murder mystery, with all the red herrings, surprises and revelations you hope for in this type of novel.
As someone new to this series (The book is #5 in the Carolina Slade Mysteries), I learned that this story presents a unique, satisfying crossover for invested readers, wherein Slade joins her friend Chief Callie Morgan in a tag-teaming effort to resolve the murder case. Along the way, Slade interfaces with Largo, as has happened in the past, apparently, always with Largo being the lead. This makes sense, given his rank compared with hers. If there is anything that somewhat alienated this reader, however, it’s Largo’s perpetual tense jaw and minimal speech. The man-of-few-words character is endemic to this type of story, but I found his terse verbiage and the book’s overall “People with badges are disciplined and wise, and most everyone else isn’t” theme a bit tiresome at times.
That said, though, I enjoyed the ride. Adding regional characters, a carefully walked racial tightrope that threads through the story, and Clark’s wonderful ability to provide loads of local flavor with an economy of words make this a brisk and entertaining novel.
As someone new to this series (The book is #5 in the Carolina Slade Mysteries), I learned that this story presents a unique, satisfying crossover for invested readers, wherein Slade joins her friend Chief Callie Morgan in a tag-teaming effort to resolve the murder case. Along the way, Slade interfaces with Largo, as has happened in the past, apparently, always with Largo being the lead. This makes sense, given his rank compared with hers. If there is anything that somewhat alienated this reader, however, it’s Largo’s perpetual tense jaw and minimal speech. The man-of-few-words character is endemic to this type of story, but I found his terse verbiage and the book’s overall “People with badges are disciplined and wise, and most everyone else isn’t” theme a bit tiresome at times.
That said, though, I enjoyed the ride. Adding regional characters, a carefully walked racial tightrope that threads through the story, and Clark’s wonderful ability to provide loads of local flavor with an economy of words make this a brisk and entertaining novel.
July 29, 2020
Salkehatchie Secret is the first book I've had a chance to review from a local author. And by local, I mean within a few miles from my neighborhood. And C. Hope Clark has written a very good regional, crime-fiction novel.
"Carolina Slade gets engaged to longtime boyfriend, Wayne Largo, the same night his new partner goes missing. Slade calls in a favor and gets her Sheriff friend, Callie Morgan, to help with the search. Soon they are deep in hemp farms, weekend militias and missing Ag Dept employees."
Very few books are set here in SC (unless it's "four girlfriends who get together to share old secrets after 20 years at the beach") So it was nice to see some crime fiction. Except that Carolina Slade is not really law enforcement. She's a SC Dept of Agriculture Special Projects person - who happens to investigate farmers who violate the terms of their crop agreements. But she does have a gun and shoots somebody. One of the deputies has a large, extended family full of funny stories. And like many small towns, this is one where the family tree is very large and broad. Makes for a great investigative tool. There was a bit of the ending left hanging, but sometimes it works when they don't wrap it up in a pretty package.
It was neat to see characters eat at a restaurant we often stop at on the way back from the beach. If you've driven through SC on the way to the Low Country, you'll recognize many of the places. And if you've ever seen a "conniption fit" you'll really like this book.
"Carolina Slade gets engaged to longtime boyfriend, Wayne Largo, the same night his new partner goes missing. Slade calls in a favor and gets her Sheriff friend, Callie Morgan, to help with the search. Soon they are deep in hemp farms, weekend militias and missing Ag Dept employees."
Very few books are set here in SC (unless it's "four girlfriends who get together to share old secrets after 20 years at the beach") So it was nice to see some crime fiction. Except that Carolina Slade is not really law enforcement. She's a SC Dept of Agriculture Special Projects person - who happens to investigate farmers who violate the terms of their crop agreements. But she does have a gun and shoots somebody. One of the deputies has a large, extended family full of funny stories. And like many small towns, this is one where the family tree is very large and broad. Makes for a great investigative tool. There was a bit of the ending left hanging, but sometimes it works when they don't wrap it up in a pretty package.
It was neat to see characters eat at a restaurant we often stop at on the way back from the beach. If you've driven through SC on the way to the Low Country, you'll recognize many of the places. And if you've ever seen a "conniption fit" you'll really like this book.
March 8, 2021
I eagerly snap up each new book in this series of crossover novels between Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan. This is a highly enjoyable crossover with the complexity of fine-aged wine or bourbon. It is not quite the summer beach read but is well-suited to COVID-related time at home. It will certainly keep the mind occupied, attention riveted and heart engaged. Subplots keep us on edge but not distracted from the main storyline. It is a very classy work of detective fiction that manages to incorporate the nuances of societal angst in 2020. Hope relates a chilling tale of murder and mayhem and includes the very human side of race relations in her region. She refrains from dictating terms to her readers as so many authors did last year. I could have hoped for a more joyful celebration of their deepening romance for Slade and Wayne but it was pleasing to see Callie drawing close as well. Hope has become a master of characterization and I love that about her books. Life is complicated after all, especially in the law enforcement "real" world. A big plus in today's marketplace is the fact that Hope is the sole creator of these stories and characters. You'll find no stamped and pressed team product here. And, the book is printed in the USA. This matters today as never before.
July 12, 2020
"Salkehatchie Secret" combines the talents of two of C. Hope Clark’s favorite series’ characters, Carolina Slade (Carolina Slade mysteries) and Callie Morgan (Edisto Island mysteries). She brings the story to Walterboro, where the suspicious death of a federal agent ties romance, murder, infidelity, friendship, and suspense into a wild ride down low-country back roads. The lines of federal, criminal, and agricultural jurisdiction are thoroughly clouded by Slade, a USDA Special Projects Representative with a plastic badge, as she investigates a farmer suspected of pocketing money instead of paying his government debts. Add in that he also owns a hunting club, and enjoys his self-proclaimed soldier of fortune status, making him dangerous, as well as loathsome. Slade is given law enforcement help from Callie Morgan, Police Chief from Edisto, out of both friendship and professional concern for her ‘badge without gun’ vulnerability. Hometown secrets, local flair, and smart writing make this a great introduction to C. Hope Clark’s characters or the perfect continuation of either mystery series.
January 30, 2021
Salkahatchie Secret is the second cross-over between master mystery writer, C. Hope Clark. Two of her series' main characters meet up again to solve the murder of an FBI rookie. Carolina Slade (Slade Mysteries) and Callie Morgan (Edisto Mysteries), are brought together in their opposite styles of sleuthing to find a cold-blooded killer.
Callie, the local Sheriff, and Slade, an agricultural agent team up with Slade's fiancé, Wayne Largo, an FBI agent to uncover who and why his new-minted partner, was murdered.
Clark's endearing style of writing about her characters and the Low-Country lifestyle make this another mystery I couldn't put down. The action, sizzle and emotions are sultry, hot and intense. She has a way of transporting you to the area and captivating your attention. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading both of theses series and always keep my eye and ear out for her next book. If you love mysteries and female heroines, you'll enjoy, if not love this book. I especially enjoyed learning about the Agriculture workings from this angle.
Even after you put it down, you can't stop thinking about the characters. Well worth your time. Thank you Hope and keep them coming!
Callie, the local Sheriff, and Slade, an agricultural agent team up with Slade's fiancé, Wayne Largo, an FBI agent to uncover who and why his new-minted partner, was murdered.
Clark's endearing style of writing about her characters and the Low-Country lifestyle make this another mystery I couldn't put down. The action, sizzle and emotions are sultry, hot and intense. She has a way of transporting you to the area and captivating your attention. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading both of theses series and always keep my eye and ear out for her next book. If you love mysteries and female heroines, you'll enjoy, if not love this book. I especially enjoyed learning about the Agriculture workings from this angle.
Even after you put it down, you can't stop thinking about the characters. Well worth your time. Thank you Hope and keep them coming!
June 24, 2020
Once again C.Hope Clark delivers a stellar story. Salkehatchie Secret is the fifth in the Caroline Slade Mysteries series. I’ve been following her from the first book where we are introduced to Slade. And I have watched her grow as her family and boyfriend rally around her making her a better person. The crimes she solves as an agricultural agent are fascinating to me as a city dweller. Having Chief Callie Morgan from her Edisto Island series join the investigation made it an extra sweet read. Readers got to discover a softer side of Callie as she played second fiddle in Slade’s investigation. And of course, Wayne Fargo, her ever-patient boyfriend had a larger role giving readers a deeper look at this hunky IG Special Agent. Loved, loved, loved visiting the lowlands of South Carolina and riding along with Slade as she pulls together the puzzle pieces and brings the mystery to a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed following closely behind Slade to discover who done it because there aren’t any concrete clues early on that gives it away.
July 10, 2020
Once again, C Hope Clark has delivered a finely tuned 'who dun-it'! For some readers, the recurring characters in "Salkehatchie Secret" are literary besties. For those of you new to Clark's writing - make room for a few new book-mates.
"Salkehatchie Secret" is a crossover between two of Clark's mystery series. Carolina Slade of the Slade mysteries and Callie Morgan of the Edisto series, join up to investigate - what else? Murder of course!
But these two female, crack investigators know, where murder is afoot, stirring the town pot is always going to turn up the heat and nobody does it better than Slade and Chief of Police, Callie Morgan.
Don't worry one little bit if you've not read any of the other books from these two series. C Hope Clark is a gifted story teller, she gives you just enough of exactly what you need to know to keep things moving right along. I guarantee when you finish "Salkehatchie Secret", the only thing you'll have a struggle with is which series to read first! My advice? Buy both of them!
"Salkehatchie Secret" is a crossover between two of Clark's mystery series. Carolina Slade of the Slade mysteries and Callie Morgan of the Edisto series, join up to investigate - what else? Murder of course!
But these two female, crack investigators know, where murder is afoot, stirring the town pot is always going to turn up the heat and nobody does it better than Slade and Chief of Police, Callie Morgan.
Don't worry one little bit if you've not read any of the other books from these two series. C Hope Clark is a gifted story teller, she gives you just enough of exactly what you need to know to keep things moving right along. I guarantee when you finish "Salkehatchie Secret", the only thing you'll have a struggle with is which series to read first! My advice? Buy both of them!
July 10, 2020
I think this is my favorite book yet by author C. Hope Clark. It could be because after reading so many of the Carolina Slade and Edisto Island mystery series I feel they are part of my fictitious family. This book was the second time we have characters from both series working together. It works really well.
The physical geography of South Carolina’s low country is so well described you can feel, smell and see it. But it’s the characters who are so endearing especially the romance between Slade and Lawman. They can invoke irritation and amusement at the same time. Callie, Slade’s friend from Edisto seemed more mature, more sensitive and more appealing in this book.
The other characters were really diverse and interesting. It could have been easy to drift into stereotypes with some of them but this did not happen.
As usual, I was unable to guess who the “bad guy” was but did anticipate one sharp twist of plot ahead of time. That made me feel quite pleased with myself.
I would love to see this and the other C. Hope Clark mysteries in a movie or television series.
The physical geography of South Carolina’s low country is so well described you can feel, smell and see it. But it’s the characters who are so endearing especially the romance between Slade and Lawman. They can invoke irritation and amusement at the same time. Callie, Slade’s friend from Edisto seemed more mature, more sensitive and more appealing in this book.
The other characters were really diverse and interesting. It could have been easy to drift into stereotypes with some of them but this did not happen.
As usual, I was unable to guess who the “bad guy” was but did anticipate one sharp twist of plot ahead of time. That made me feel quite pleased with myself.
I would love to see this and the other C. Hope Clark mysteries in a movie or television series.
January 1, 2021
Salkechatchie Secret matches C. Hope Clark’s other books in interest and mystery, often with twists that keep the reader guessing. One aspect found in Clark’s depiction of women protagonists appeals to me: The women appear strong and intelligent but still human. They solve or help solve mysteries but do not try to out-man the men in their lives They accept their need for others, use that need to become stronger.
A day that should start a period of happiness for Carolina Slade is marred when her fiancé’s new partner disappears. Slade joins Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Morgan to be close to Wayne Largo and the investigation. Although not an official-badge-wearing law officer, she often has insight that aids her personal partner in his investigations, but this case calls for emotional support, which leads her into the action more than she expects. A mystery, with twists and turns joining a romance that must wait, wraps the reader in the plot and people that seem to come to life on the page.
A day that should start a period of happiness for Carolina Slade is marred when her fiancé’s new partner disappears. Slade joins Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Morgan to be close to Wayne Largo and the investigation. Although not an official-badge-wearing law officer, she often has insight that aids her personal partner in his investigations, but this case calls for emotional support, which leads her into the action more than she expects. A mystery, with twists and turns joining a romance that must wait, wraps the reader in the plot and people that seem to come to life on the page.
March 7, 2021
I personally love to read books in a series, but I don’t like rereading all of the back history authors put in. Maybe that’s one of the many reasons I look forward to each and every book that C. Hope Clark writes. She tells you just enough in case you started in the middle of a series, but doesn’t bog you down. With this being a crossover of the Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan series, I expected more backstory. Instead, I was instantly immersed with what feels like old friends. These two characters are smart and full of spunk. Carolina and Slade complement each other, and I can’t decide who is my favorite. If you are South Carolinian, or trying your best to get here, you will feel like you are right at home reading any of Clark’s books. Salkehatchie Secret didn’t disappoint. But, do yourself a favor and start at book #1 in both series. You won’t be sorry.
C. Hope Clark
C. Hope Clark
April 13, 2022
Favorite the 5th the best
Liked the story, liked its relevance to today's racial climate we are unfortunately living in currently without all the facts, hidden agendas racism being a 2-way street and allowing the press to being the narrator's of a story they have created and are capitalizing on in order to move their agenda This book felt very relative to today's climate
Having lived thru the first civil rights movement I can't help but be amazed the dead from the time period aren't haunting those who seeks to see us undo so much good. They fought for equality not superiority and how this Country is repaying their sacrifices (a fight led by both white and black)! It shames me to see what they have turned all those good works into today. This book is worth reading for those of you who are still bigoted in both the black and white culture and see that we all don't feel the way we are portrayed as Southerners. Good book!
Liked the story, liked its relevance to today's racial climate we are unfortunately living in currently without all the facts, hidden agendas racism being a 2-way street and allowing the press to being the narrator's of a story they have created and are capitalizing on in order to move their agenda This book felt very relative to today's climate
Having lived thru the first civil rights movement I can't help but be amazed the dead from the time period aren't haunting those who seeks to see us undo so much good. They fought for equality not superiority and how this Country is repaying their sacrifices (a fight led by both white and black)! It shames me to see what they have turned all those good works into today. This book is worth reading for those of you who are still bigoted in both the black and white culture and see that we all don't feel the way we are portrayed as Southerners. Good book!
June 30, 2020
C. Hope Clark has a knack with having the characters and settings of her stories be just as interesting and enjoyable as the plot itself! This plot was for sure a long and winding road which had me changing my mind every other chapter, convinced I'd finally figured out whodunit. I was wrong on all accounts! This was my first introduction to Callie and I enjoyed her interaction with Slade and Wayne and the comic relief from Don Raysor as well. The author has a great sense of humor and knowledge of her low-country south and it shows. I thoroughly enjoyed this book which although it says #5 is also a stand-alone crossover and I'm a little disappointed that I'm finished.
February 5, 2021
It's No Secret
This is a welcome continuation of the collaboration between the main protagonists of this author's two series. It doesn't matter if you are more a Slade fan than Callie, or vice versa, both shine in this investigation into the death of Wayne's new partner. I especially liked the changing points of view between the two characters, giving us a glimpse into not only their thoughts, but their perception of each other as friends and colleagues. The plot moved along well, with some surprises. If you are looking for a new series or two to start, this is a great book to wet your whistle. You can trust Ms. Clark to carry the tune.
This is a welcome continuation of the collaboration between the main protagonists of this author's two series. It doesn't matter if you are more a Slade fan than Callie, or vice versa, both shine in this investigation into the death of Wayne's new partner. I especially liked the changing points of view between the two characters, giving us a glimpse into not only their thoughts, but their perception of each other as friends and colleagues. The plot moved along well, with some surprises. If you are looking for a new series or two to start, this is a great book to wet your whistle. You can trust Ms. Clark to carry the tune.
July 20, 2021
I thought I had read all of Ms. Clark's books. When I realized I hadn't read one of the Carolina Slade books, I quickly remedied that. I know when I start one of this author's books, I will be entertained and will have a tough time putting it down to go to bed. This one was no different.
Love another crossover that puts Slade and Callie in the same story. Very different women, very different ways of investigating yet these two have become friends. This book definitely had plenty of secrets, twists and turns. And having read both of Ms. Clark's series, each book is like visiting old friends. Can't wait for her next one.
Love another crossover that puts Slade and Callie in the same story. Very different women, very different ways of investigating yet these two have become friends. This book definitely had plenty of secrets, twists and turns. And having read both of Ms. Clark's series, each book is like visiting old friends. Can't wait for her next one.
June 22, 2020
This crossover book is outstanding. Clark kept me enthralled from beginning to end with so many twists and turns. I didn't want to put the book down. Slade and Callie combine forces to help Wayne solve an investigation in the Low Country of SC that heats up with every turn of the page. This mystery was the perfect way to start my vacation in Edisto. Clark's gift of writing leaves the reader feeling that they are apart of the story themselves. I know I'm anxiously waiting for her to write another book. This book is a must have; it will not disappoint!!!
January 2, 2021
This is book 5 in the Carolina Slade Mysteries series and while it can be read as a stand alone, I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had some background from previous stories. I have read C. Hope Clark's series on Edisto Island and enjoy her writing style. Wayne and Slade are finally engaged and Wayne has a new partner, a young eager to prove herself young woman. A mix of drugs, weekend militia and old traditions make for a good murder mystery. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Read
June 27, 2020C.Hope Clark offered up a great mystery again. I loved the character interaction and the Low Country setting. in this plot line Carolina Slade just gets engaged to her Special Investigator Wayne Largo when a wrench is thrown in when his new partner is found dead. They team up to solve the mystery with many twists and turns that include the Edisto Beach cast, militia a questionable farmer and more.
I wasn’t expecting the end and you won’t either!
I wasn’t expecting the end and you won’t either!
June 29, 2020
Slade and Callie meet up again in a gripping tale exposing the depth of corruption, the height of greed and the extremes some people turn to when in love. Rayson, Wayne and Savvy as always create a dynamic cast of characters and joining them together creates a powerful read. C.Hope Clark continues to excel, crafting relatable characters that make mistakes, fall in love and doubt their every decision- and I look forward to each new real ease with anticipation!
February 16, 2022
Tore a hole in my heart, and mended another.
The power between Slade and Wayne are palatable. Feeling their independence conflict with their commitment to each other challenged me to think of my combat days in a new way. I think a chink in my PTSD armor fell and allowed me to be less judgmental of my self. I am eternally grateful C. Hope Clark.
Salkehatchie Secret is a must read.
The power between Slade and Wayne are palatable. Feeling their independence conflict with their commitment to each other challenged me to think of my combat days in a new way. I think a chink in my PTSD armor fell and allowed me to be less judgmental of my self. I am eternally grateful C. Hope Clark.
Salkehatchie Secret is a must read.
June 20, 2020
Another wonderful book by C.Hope Clark. Kept me on the edge of my seat; a real page turner! I really like the blended stories from the two series. But this was considered a "stand alone" book. The characters are so real. They each have unique personalities that you, as a reader, can identify with. Highly recommend this and all Clark's other books.
January 5, 2021
A page-turning Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan crossover. Fans of either or both series will be delighted with this tale. Action packed and many surprises. We quickly progress from sweet engagement to a death. Accident or murder? Some humorous moments add a release to the knuckle-biting situations. Thanks to the author for providing a copy per my request.
March 6, 2021
If you love a great mystery with murder and a little (or a lot) of mayhem that is set in Low Country then Salkehatchie Secret by C Hope Clark is the book for you. I love both her series but I really love when she brings them together as she did with this story. I highly recommend to anyone wether you’ve read any of her other books or not.
June 23, 2025
I really enjoyed the 5th book in the Slade series! This book had a different setting that the others and mixed things up a bit. The ending is not really what you think it’s going to be either!! On to #6!!
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