Title: Painted Death: A Kira Logan Mystery
Author: J. C. Andrew
Publisher: Westwood Books Publishing LLC
ISBN: 978-1-491745-32-8
Pages: 284
Genre: Mystery Novel
Reviewed by: Jason Lulos
Hollywood Book Reviews
Whether lounging on the beach or cozying up to a fireplace in winter, everyone has their own idea of the best book to read in such a comfortable setting. For some, it might be poetry, one of the classics, or a biography. For others, nothing beats the allure and suspense of a good old mystery. J. C. Andrew’s Painted Death is just such a tale, quaint and edgy like an old Twilight Zone episode, compelling until the end when all is revealed.
The setting of this story is the stunning topography of Raven Creek, Alaska, a relatively isolated area noted for its beautiful geography, teeming wildlife, and all the endearing attributes of small-town life. Kira, an artist from Arizona, is persuaded by her friend Jackie to come to Raven Creek to design a mural honoring local mariners who’ve been lost at sea. Upon arrival, Kira is struck by the grandeur of the Alaskan landscape and the charm of the town. However, controversy arises when some of the townspeople object to the inclusion of a certain ship in the mural whose captain died under suspicious circumstances. As Kira goes to work on the mural, she befriends the locals and forges a protective bond with the children of the allegedly disgraced, deceased captain.
When a doggedly determined detective arrives, seemingly skeptical of everyone, his investigation heightens tensions among the locals, leading to finger-pointing and more bloodshed. While Kira is hard at work on the mural, she toys with potential romance and enjoys the picturesque Alaskan landscape (which is beautifully and poetically described by the author). But she is always acutely inductive in gathering information to unearth the dark secrets of this not so idyllic small town.
Author J. C. Andrews is a great storyteller. She keeps the readers in the dark but provides just enough compelling information to keep them guessing. Kira is the primary narrator but many of the other chapters are narrated by different characters. This is a brilliant tactic for a mystery novel because it provides the reader with other perspectives giving insight into many of the main players’ innermost thoughts. The narrative flows beautifully from one perspective to another, both illuminating and complicating this plot-driven mystery.
Cleverly written, suspenseful, and entertaining, Painted Death is a book you will not want to put down. The changes in narrator are masterfully done yielding great character development, but still not making the mystery easily revealed. With vivid portrayals of the countryside and inner workings of the town, the author brings Raven Creek to life. Kira is a truly winsome character in a highly entertaining story that will urge you to get other books in the Kira Logan Mystery series.