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The Hidden Assassinsby: Robert Wilson |
Cape Perdidoby Marcia MullerCape Perdido is not one of Marcia Muller's Sharon McCone mysteries, but rather based on one of her more personal experiences. However, thanks to Ms. Muller's excellent skill, it's a no less noteworthy accomplishment. Just how much of the story is true, with name changes and other alterations, we'll probably never know – but Marcia Muller has certainly provided her readers with a very accurate picture of what can happen to environmental issues when greed takes over!Cape Perdido was once a lumber town, but since the lumber mill shut down it's become primarily dependent on the tourists who frequent its waterways and enjoy the other beautiful outdoor wilderness activities. It's located in Northern California, near the Pacific coast. But then a North Carolina water harvesting company threatens the very livelihood of its residents. People who were formerly law-abiding and peaceful suddenly become aggressive. The 'waterbaggers' are creating havoc with the whole town, but four are especially involved, and each have their own secrets: Jessie Domingo, a community specialist from New York, Joseph Openshaw, an environmentalist, Steph Pace, who owns and operates the local restaurant, and Timothy McNear, who owns the former lumber mill. All of these characters except Jessie live in Cape Perdido and were involved in a long-ago incident that permanently separated them. Jessie has her own separate problems – she's forced to contend not only with the hostility of the town for 'outsiders' but with her own partner, a lawyer, as well. Cape Perdido has its murders, a sniper, arson, and kidnapping as well as ugly secrets brought to light at last. Those who want to destroy the environment for greed and the pleasure of others are eventually required to face what they've managed to stir up – including the unpleasant activities of some of their own people. Anybody who is a fan of Marcia Muller's Sharon McCone won't need any introduction to this fine writer. Ms. Muller is tops in her field, an adept at gradually uncovering the characters she presents from the outside in, and keeping you turning the pages until she reveals every last covert enigma. Cape Perdido is a mystery must! Alan Paul Curtis |
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