"Deadly Devotion" by Sandra Orchard is a fast paced murder mystery that follows the heroine Kate Adams as she tries to find the murderer of her dear friend and mentor. Orchard uses the fascinating world of herbal medicine as the backdrop to this gripping tale. From the Back Cover: Kate knows the truth is out there--but if she's right, that means a killer is out there too. Research scientists Kate Adams and Daisy Leacock were on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy was suddenly found dead. Kate knows that her mentor's death wasn't suicide or a careless accident--and she's determined to do whatever it takes to unearth the truth about what happened to the woman who changed her life. Former FBI agent Tom Parker is finding it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gave him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom's just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation into her friend's death, he knows his job is at stake. But despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate may have something to hide. As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?
My favorite part of this book are the strong characters Orchard has created. This is the main thing that draws me into a good book. I need to care about these people if I am going to continue reading their stories. Kate and Tom's story is filled with wonderful tension and conflict. I love the dialogue between these two. It's sharp and witty. Orchard has done a fine job creating an interesting murder weapon as well. Using herbal medicine as the murder weapon was fascinating to me as the reader. I won't give away the ending, but let's just say it was a great twist that I didn't see coming. This is my first Sandra Orchard novel and I enjoyed it. It was a wonderful introduction to the sleepy little town of Port Aster, which I look forward to returning to in her future books.
I give this book:
3 cupcakes - I enjoyed the book and learned something and you might like it too!
You can purchase this book at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Christianbook as well as your local retailer. I received a copy of this book for free in return for my review. My opinions are my own.
