I like all the characters in this series, I like the setting, and especially like Robo (of course). This entry in the series has pretty good pacing and doesn't telegraph the identity of the villain. It could use a little more emotional intensity, perhaps. I was comparing the scene here when Mattie runs from the wildfire to a C.J. Box I recently read, with his protagonist doing the same, and it just doesn't have the same oomph. I also felt the plot was too contrived, having the villain need to commit his crimes in that particular location. There's a little throwaway line about how it might be ritualistic, but the plot doesn't support that. It wasn't plausible to me that the villain would go to all that trouble just for that one thing he/she was looking for. And in general, I like it better when the LEOs are solving crimes against others, not when the LEO becomes the target. But I am still liking this series and will continue with the next one.
Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
Margaret Mizushima's Burning Ridge is the fourth book in her Timber Creek K-9 mystery series, a series which relies on good strong mysteries (most of which take place in the glorious Colorado outdoors), the relationships between the characters, and exciting scenes that put readers right in the middle of the action. A theme throughout the series has been Mattie coming to terms with her difficult past, and Burning Ridge brings this theme to fruition. Not only does Mattie have to deal with her past, she also has to come to the realization that she now has people around her who truly care about her, people whom she can trust. It's how Mattie deals with these emotional questions that adds so much to this book (and the entire series).
After the last book, Hunting Hour, I was hopeful that Mizushima would steer clear of any further child jeopardy, and I'm happy to report that she did. She still delivers a tightly woven, exciting mystery that takes place in the mountains of Colorado. Every time Mattie had to saddle up a horse to head up to remote Redstone Ridge, I was reminded of some of my own trail rides. Mizushima can pull you right out into the great outdoors, which is something I enjoy. In many respects, I'm reminded of Nevada Barr's Anna Pigeon series, so if you're missing Anna as much as I am, I'd like to recommend the Timber Creek K-9 series. Good characters, good setting, good mysteries. Good stuff!
After the last book, Hunting Hour, I was hopeful that Mizushima would steer clear of any further child jeopardy, and I'm happy to report that she did. She still delivers a tightly woven, exciting mystery that takes place in the mountains of Colorado. Every time Mattie had to saddle up a horse to head up to remote Redstone Ridge, I was reminded of some of my own trail rides. Mizushima can pull you right out into the great outdoors, which is something I enjoy. In many respects, I'm reminded of Nevada Barr's Anna Pigeon series, so if you're missing Anna as much as I am, I'd like to recommend the Timber Creek K-9 series. Good characters, good setting, good mysteries. Good stuff!
