California Redwoods

Mickey Mathews spends the final days of 1945 in California helping his wife’s cousin, Chet, to solve the mystery of the disappearance of Chet’s mother on New Year’s Eve twelve years earlier. From the beginning, the investigation is filled with danger, and the fast-paced action keeps the reader turning pages in anticipation. Adding to the realism is the depiction of the culture of the 1940s – the clothing, attitudes, an ever-present cloud of cigarette smoke, and elevators with operators who control the metal scissors doors.

The cold case quickly unravels thanks to the skilled observations of Mickey and his ability to establish trust with people from all walks of life. By treating them with deep respect (and rewarding their help with hefty tips), he gathers information that directs his investigation. Mickey exudes confidence, but never arrogance. He always works with a partner (in this case, Chet), and when needed, he enlists the expertise of others. Mickey also enjoys a few hamburgers along the way!

As Mickey and Chet follow the case from San Francisco to Eureka, the reader remains engrossed to see what happens next. A plot twist at the end opens the possibility that the mystery might be more complex that it has appeared. Some unresolved questions leave the reader wanting more – a sure sign of an excellent novel.