MURDER AT BLACK LAKE by Anne Patrick

Jackson Ridge is someplace actress Jamie Riedel left behind, along with the difficult memories. Fourteen years ago, while camping with her father, they’re attacked by someone wearing a ski mask. She was wounded but her father was killed. Not long after that her mother sent her away to live with her grandma, but never understood why her mother did that. When her mother passes away, she returns to Jackson Ridge to settle her estate. It's not long before Jamie finds out, by way of a note on her door, that someone doesn't want her there, but why? Deputy Chief Gage Hansen has always had feelings for Jamie but a cheating wife and ugly divorce has made him apprehensive about opening his heart again, especially to Jamie after reading the stories about her life. But as they work together to find the truth about the past as well as the threats she's now receiving, he finds she’s very much the same girl he remembers. They also discover that their feelings for each other are still very strong. Can two people on very different paths form a future together? The road ahead will have a few unexpected curves and just might result in a 'dead' end if they’re not careful.

I have read most, if not all, of Anne Patrick's books and I can honestly say that none have ever disappointed me. Murder at Black Lake was no exception. Although this was not really an 'edge of your seat' type story, it was full of mystery and intrigue and I will say that there were a couple of places where I held my breath. All the characters were very well drawn. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Jamie and Gage. Jamie was strong yet vulnerable. She had achieved success by the world’s standards but she never felt truly fulfilled. Gage was the perfect combination of strong and tender. I liked the fact that even though he had been badly hurt he didn't become hardened by it. I loved the interaction between them. It was fun and romantic and I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of angst. It made it a pleasure to read. I also appreciated that each had a personal faith that was evident in how they lived. That always encourages me. Gage's sister Mallory was someone I enjoyed getting to know. I would love to see a story with her as the lead and find out what happens with her and Cade. As I closed the book, I was reminded that the conclusions we draw about certain situations are not always correct, so we need to be careful to gather the complete truth before making a judgment. Wow, that was food for thought. If you enjoy a good romantic mystery with a side of suspense, then I would definitely recommend a trip to Jackson Ridge. Do be careful, I hear there's been a little trouble there lately.

*This complimentary copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

For more information about this book or other books by Anne Patrick I encourage you to visit her website at: www.annepatrickbooks.com