Firestorm

Anna Pigeon Mystery: 4

ISBN: 0-7887-3775-9 Order from: Recorded Books

A tense, survivalist plot is well combined with a solid mystery and likable protagonist in this novel which satisfies despite several awkward plot elements.

Reviewed by David on November 10, 2001

Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural)

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Firestorm.

Naptional Park Service ranger Anna Pigeon, the protagonist of several previous mysteries, is assisting as a medical technician at a fire camp in northern California. In the aftermath of a surprising and deadly flare-up of a nearly extingished forest fire, Anna's law enforcement rôle is suddenly required, as evidence of a murder is found.

The tense investigation in a mountain camp cut off from the bases below combines a grim struggle for survival in a small, stressed group one of whom is almost certainly a murderer.

Full Review: The novel starts with a deft portrayal of the risky but mostly routine life in a temporary mountain fire camp. When a freaky weather pattern whips the dying fire into a deadly, all-consuming conflagration, the narrative accelerates smoothly into intense, frantic race for survival. The description of the inferno, and its aftermath is vivid and involving.

The struggle to survive until help can arrive from below is solidly, if not very originally portrayed. A small group under stress, with some showing unexpected courage, and other cracking under pressure, is further challenged by a murder investigation and consequent lack of trust.

Anna's actions and internal monologue is realistic and sympathetic, while combining intelligence, doubt, exhaustion and suspicion. Several times Anna's actions seemed frustratingly unwise, designed more to extend the plot or create additional personal danger.

For the most part, the plot is satisfying, with several plausible twists. The combination of the ever-pressing environment with a solid if rather conventional murder investigation combines into another pleasant installment of this mystery series.

Overall: 6; Plot: 5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 7; Originality: 6;

ISBN: 0-7887-3775-9 Order from: Recorded Books