Broken Heartland: A Mad Dog and Englishman Mystery

J.M. Hayes
Poisoned Pen Press (2007)
ISBN 9781590584521
Reviewed by Stephanie Rollins for Reader Views (6/07)


“Broken Heartland” is a quick read.  There is action on every page.  The people in this small county in Kansas believe that the sheriff election is exciting.  Little do they know that it will become an afterthought.  A school shooting leads to the discovery of hostages being held at a nearby farm.

The quiet little town only had a handful of deputies, so the sheriff’s daughters have to end up trying to keep order.   The town coroner was one of my favorite characters.  The Heather 1 and Heather 2 names are a bit too much at times, but beyond that, the characters are fascinating.

Part of the social division in the county is between the members of the Buffalo Springs Church of Christ Risen and the non-members.  The members of the church tend to be holier-than-thou.  Mad Dog enters the church to speak to a member.  The pastor makes a sarcastic comment about being surprised to see him at a church.  Mad Dog replies, “…you’ve got that big welcome sign by the front door.  I didn’t think anyone would mind.”  When Mad Dog is not made welcome, he asks, “So the welcome sign is only for show?”

There are many questions “Broken Heartland” leaves the readers wondering.  Will Heather quit law school to become a deputy?  Why did Chucky start shooting in the school?  Why are people being held hostage at that farm?  Who will win the election?

Anyone who loves a good mystery will love “Broken Heartland.”    The title does not accurately reflect the excitement of the book.  You cannot judge this book by the title.  I recommend reading this “Mad Dog and Englishman Mystery.”

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