John A. and Marguerite E. W. (aliennightbird) reviewed on 5/2/2009 + 40 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

In general, I really enjoy the "Birdwatcher" mystery series, although I like the the two original books (this is the first book in the series) a little better than the later stories because they feature a true ameteur woman sleuth (in this case, a hotel owner) and her sometimes eccentric group of (for the most part) lady bird-watching friends. (The newer two books that I have read feature U. S. government rangers.) The prose in the older books also seem to be a little fresher and a bit better written.

All of the books weave into the plot things that might cause harn for wild Colorado birds. One species is featured per book. Not only are the birds, their habitats, and their activities part of the narrative itself, but the author adds a scientific page about the featured birds at the end of the book.

The stories are decently written, fairly fast paced, and holds my interest throughout. The characters are well-drawn, but could be deeper. The imagery is good, although at times, it can be a little cliche.

In this book, a young woman visits her aunt in her home in the Colorado rockies and becomes involved with her aunt's bird-watching club which consists mainly of eccentric ladies. Then, she discovers the body of a murdered journalist. This leads a complex plot and danger. And, of course, the local flock of ravens provide a major clue.

Another little bird, her aunt's mischevious parakeet who is given free flight in the house, and who has obsession with plucking hair from the heads of unwary guests, not only provides comic relief, but becomes a hero in his own right.

So, dispite a few minor flaws, this story provided a nice, quick read. I would recommend it.

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