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A review by isalaur
Smoke and Murders by S.C. Wynne
fast-paced
5.0
This 4th book in the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries is yet another cleverly constructed tale. Aside from the mystery of the arsonist there’s relationship drama, and not just for Royce and Max.
As the book begins Max is dealing with watching his home and clinic burn to the ground. Royce and Max are still on the outs so it gets uncomfortable when Royce agrees to let Max stay with him. Max is trying to decide whether to rebuild and stay in Rainy Dale, another complicated decision when there is another fire. Royce is now embroiled in a serial arson case and the arson investigator is a bit too like Max in terms of his social skills (or lack thereof) which is getting on Max’s last nerve.
The author does a great job throwing around red herrings so there are several possible suspects. Adding to the town drama is an adulterous affair and the recently arrived homeopathic doctor that Max is sure is up to something. There are several irons in the fire in this book and a couple seem to be laying foundations for future books.
It was an engrossing read that I read all in one sitting. I didn’t want to put it down. I’m hoping Max and Royce stay on an even keel now as I was getting pretty annoyed with Royce. Watching Max try to conform to social mores light to be a hoot.
As the book begins Max is dealing with watching his home and clinic burn to the ground. Royce and Max are still on the outs so it gets uncomfortable when Royce agrees to let Max stay with him. Max is trying to decide whether to rebuild and stay in Rainy Dale, another complicated decision when there is another fire. Royce is now embroiled in a serial arson case and the arson investigator is a bit too like Max in terms of his social skills (or lack thereof) which is getting on Max’s last nerve.
The author does a great job throwing around red herrings so there are several possible suspects. Adding to the town drama is an adulterous affair and the recently arrived homeopathic doctor that Max is sure is up to something. There are several irons in the fire in this book and a couple seem to be laying foundations for future books.
It was an engrossing read that I read all in one sitting. I didn’t want to put it down. I’m hoping Max and Royce stay on an even keel now as I was getting pretty annoyed with Royce. Watching Max try to conform to social mores light to be a hoot.