Kona Heat

Gregory and Patricia Kishel
iUniverse (2007)
ISBN 9780595461820
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (12/07)

“Kona Heat” actually begins in the year 1553, when a red crystal, that is precious to the priests of a Hawaiian temple, is stolen.  The story then carries forward to our modern times, on the Island of Hawaii, when scientists and locals are disputing whether or not a geothermal plant should be built on the Kilauea Volcano.  Locals know that they need a cheap source of energy; however, some of the natives fear that the Goddess Pele will be angered by this.  The military and environmentalists are also involved.
          
Dr. Yonette Weber, a geologist, is brought to the island to oversee the project.  She discovers that there others that are very involved with stopping the project.  Her own life becomes endangered.  As these events are all taking place, she finds herself drawn to Brad Hudson, who is developing a resort on the island.  He begins helping her try to find out what is going on.  When the volcano is sabotaged and Yonette disappears, he goes looking for her.  He discovers that some of the Pele worshippers have other ideas for how her presence should be used.
        
“Kona Heat” is very fast-paced.  I was immediately drawn into the story.  If you have been to Hawaii, as I have, you will really be able to relate to understanding the island and the locals.  I really loved that the authors incorporated both real science and Hawaii magic into their plot.  A touch of magic weaves itself throughout the story adding to the mystery. 
        
If you enjoy a great mystery, don’t miss out on this one.  If you are going to Hawaii, you must take “Kona Heat” with you!

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