Summer Reads: When Death Draws Near

Thomas Nelson; 336 pages; $15.99; Buy Link: Blog Tour

I've been trying really hard to have my reviews for blog tours written and posted a few days before whatever specific date is assigned to me, but that isn't the case for this one. I'm a little under the weather this week, so my review is being written today, which happens to be my blog's turn on the tour.

What am I review today?

Well, I'm reviewing the mystery thriller When Death Draws Near by Carrie Stuart Parks (You can find information about her at the very bottom of this review!). The book was published by Thomas Nelson and was released to bookstores last week (August 2nd).

The novel centers on forensic artist Gwen Marcey, who takes a temporary job in the small town of Pikeville, Kentucky. While at first it sounds like she wouldn't have much to do there, she quickly learns that the town has had several recent crimes (some accidental). Her first assignment is to draw a sketch of a serial rapist. However, before she can finish the drawing, one of witnesses disappears.

While the sheriff is looking into the incident, Gwen decides to do her own investigation that might link the "accidental" deaths to the serial rapist. Also, along with her teenager daughter, Gwen goes undercover a serpent-handling church to undercover illegal activities.

Despite Gwen's already busy life, she is a thrown a curve-ball when she learns that her breast cancer has returned.

Final Thoughts: I have a bad habit of jumping into the middle of a book series, which happens to be the case for this title as it is the third installment in the series. While it features the same main character, this is more of a standalone novel, so I had no problems figuring out who was who and what was what.

At 336 pages, with short chapters, When Death Draws Near was a fast-paced read for me. The author has a natural talent for storytelling, and her skills are shown through the wonderfully written characters, great descriptions, and witty dialogue.

Overall, When Death Draws Near is a well-written murder mystery with plenty of twists and turns to keep you turning the pages.

*I received this book free of charge for my honest review and they are 100% my own opinions. I received no compensation for this review and I am not required to give a positive review. I am also not associated with the publisher or author in any way.
 



About the Author: Carrie Stuart Parks is a Christy finalist as well as a Carol award-winning author. She has won numerous awards for her fine art as well. An internationally known forensic artist, she travels with her husband, Rick, across the US and Canada teaching courses in forensic art to law enforcement professionals. The author/illustrator of numerous books on drawing and painting, Carrie continues to create dramatic watercolors from her studio in the mountains of Idaho.

For more information, please visit the author's website at www.carriestuartparks.com.