There are several reasons I read Muller's books. First is that she writes intriguing characters and mysteries. Second, most are placed in and around San Francisco, which I'm familiar with. This book isn't part of the Sharon McCone series, and it's too bad that it will get lost in the reviews of Muller's books, because, in someways, I think it's even better. The location is on the California coast north of SF--Muller's fictional place, but being familiar with that area, I have a mental image of what is written. She even provides a map.( I love a book with a map.) I befrended Rhoda, the protagonist, right away, and hope she will be in the two other books of this small series. The plot is moved by several characters, and events that took place years before. I will definitely read the two other books in the series.

Thanks for making me a lucky winner of this book through the First Reads program and I look forward to reading and reviewing.

This one was fun. In the front of the book is a map of "Soledad County" which sits on the Northern California coast between Humboldt and Mendocino. At the north end of the County there is Oilville, obviously Petrolia, at the south end is Westhaven, the coast road is 1 and over on the inland side winds Highway 101, through the redwoods. A few familiar names like Castle Rock and Eel River, and there you have the setting.

Muller does a great job evoking the North Coast folks, including the dope growers, former hippies/commune dwellers, artists, hard drinking rednecks, etc. Oh and of course the Second Home rich folks from the City. There is a mystery with clues strewn around (I admit I was leaning toward the red herrings of the suicidal deputy and the wacko father for a time) and there is a side story of budding romance between the protagonist, a female deputy, and a writer who has come to Soledad to research some murders that took place 13 years earlier.

This one was from 2001 and I hope there has been at least one later one with the same characters. A really nice one-night stand, very entertaining.

As for what I learned? Large Print is great for reading a whole book in bed.

Eh very average mystery novel... Nothing special about it at all!

Initially hesitant to read a book about a psychic given my personal skepticism about such things, I’m so glad I took a chance as Beatrix is a fabulous character. New Orleans during WW2 provided a fascinating setting and brought to attention some interesting and shameful bits of history that are often overlooked. Strong characters with great chemistry and an element of mystery make this a great read. If you enjoy historical fiction you should add this to your list!

Thank you to @netgalley for a digital ARC.

Another Success

Marcia put together another successful murder mystery. First I’ve read in this series, so I had to learn the characters, but then I couldn’t put it down. Now I’m on to the next one!

This was such a cute story with a mythical feel to it. The author does such a great job of tailoring this to the young adult reader and the characters are so well developed and likable except for most of the adults. The description of the characters as well as the surroundings was just amazing. I could honestly feel like I was there.

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author/publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.

Not my favorite book by Muller and probably the last I'll read by her.

I enjoy Marcia Muller very much. However, this Point Deception #1, Cape Perdido Series is a difficult read. I could have been a distracted reader or it could have been a Community's despair that permeated the entire novel. Either way, the story is a sad one. Thirteen years ago, this Community experienced some horrifying murders. They have never really recovered. Now, this beaten down community has to deal with more death. As the investigation progresses, it appears some community members have lots of secrets. As I have read @ and #1 respectively and I like Muller, I will likely read #3.

I thought this had a good plot with some twists and turns but the characters seemed so depressing. I actually read the 2nd book out of order years ago but don't really remember it. It might be worth rereading them in order. However I don't think the main characters are prominent (if they are in it at all) but I believe it takes place in the same area.

would love this as a series...:)

I honestly didn't give the slightest care about any of the characters until I was over halfway done with this book. I kept reading until that point mostly out of stubbornness and a need to unravel the plot. That being said, I don't regret sticking it out. The plot was intricate, the ending was reasonably satisfying, and the characters turned out to have some depth after all, even if they still weren't exactly interesting.