Whirlpool

by Lorena McCourtney

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Stefanie Canfield has had a rough year. While she struggled with the death of her mother, her husband, Hunter, had an affair, flaunting his mistress for all of Julesburg to see. Then came the difficult divorce. Worst of all, when the plywood mill she and Hunter still own together is destroyed by fire, Stefanie becomes a suspect. But Ryan, the arson investigator from out of town, turns out to be a childhood friend. Though he tries to be objective in his investigation, their renewed friendship becomes a crucial bond during the dark and terrifying days that follow. Before long both Ryan and Stefanie are caught up in a maze of intrigue when a Julesburg resident is found murdered. Fighting turbulent emotions as well as the arson and murder accusations against her, Stefanie wonders if faith is enough to get through the confusion, the fear, and, finally, a frightening confrontation with the killer. (c) back cover, Lorena McCourtney

This was a very well written, fast-paced book. After the first couple of chapters, I was hooked and didn't want to put the book down. The end of each chapter has a suspenseful ending so that you say to yourself that you have to read "just one more chapter" and soon you realize you've read more than one! The characters are strong and realistic. The main characters, Stefanie and Ryan, are very likable and you find yourself rooting for them throughout the story. The antagonist is very easy to dislike. The love story is sweet although it plays a definite back seat to the mystery. The mystery itself is full of twists and turns and new characters which complicate matters. I was guessing and reguessing who the real arsonist and murderer was and I was surprised by the outcome.

I was a little disappointed in the lack of a real in-depth faith theme in the story. The faith theme is present, but not given much attention or focus. I felt there could have been more of a struggle with faith going on with the main character than there was.

I was also a little disappointed in the characterization of one of the minor characters and felt the turn of events which included her, didn't have quite enough characterization support to make it real plausible. Perhaps more foreshadowing or hints of unstableness throughout the beginning of the story might add just enough depth to make her motivation more realistic. I can't say much more on that subject without giving away anything to those who haven't read this book yet! :)

Overall, it was a first rate book and I enjoyed it as much as I've enjoyed Lorena McCourtney's other books. The cover is beautiful and gives one an image to think on as you read the story. Definitely give this one a try! I thoroughly enjoyed it and anyone looking for a fast paced and interesting book will surely love it too. It is another popular Christian Mystery Romance book that seems to be blossoming in the market today!