On Deadly Ground

Michael Norman
Poisoned Pen Press (2010)
ISBN 9781590586921
Reviewed by Cherie Fisher for Reader Views (01/10)

 

Who knew that Southern Utah could have a community completely at odds with each other over land development and environmental issues?  Apparently Michael Norman did in this action-packed thriller.  It has it all – murder, intrigue, lust and greed.  But be prepared, it’s a hard book to put down once you start reading it. 

When David Greenbriar of the Escalente Environmental Wilderness Alliance (EEWA) is found brutally murdered in Kanab, Utah, newly appointed Ranger JD Books is called in to help solve the murder.  His previous experience in homicide in Colorado is just what the case needs as the story unfolds with numerous twists and turns.  Recently returned to Utah from Colorado, JD is surprised at the secrets that he uncovers in his hometown. 

The suspects are numerous as the investigation proceeds and the bodies start piling up.  Is it fellow EEWA member, Lance Clayburn, who is believed to be having an affair with David Greenbriar’s wife?  Or did David’s young wife, Darby Greenbriar do it?  Or it could be the questionable Las Vegas conglomerate that is trying to build a road in the area or the opposing organization or the Citizens for a Free West (CFW).  Things go from bad to worse when a contract killer shows up to eliminate the only possible witness to the murder.  I couldn’t figure out who was behind the murders right up to the end and was very surprised at some of the twists and turns that the story took. 

The author does an excellent job describing the Southern Utah area.  I felt like I was in the mountain passes and conservation areas that he was describing.  It will make you want to plan a vacation there. 

Overall, I found this story to be a very well-written, fast-paced page-turner.  If you enjoy mysteries, thrillers and adventures, then “On Deadly Ground” by Michael Norman is probably the one for you to read.

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