Book Review: The Shadow Dancer

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Shadow Dancer     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Margaret Coel
Class/Genre:   Mystery
Series: Wind River Reservation Mysteries # 8
Berkley, Sept 2002, $22.95, 304 pp.

It has been four months since lawyer Vicky Holden left her high- powered job in a high profile legal firm to return home to the Wind River Reservation. She finally agrees to face her abusive ex- husband Ben at a local restaurant but they aren’t together a few minutes before he loses his temper, makes a scene, and walks out.

A mortified Vicky departs from her public humiliation not long after the incident occurred only to later learn that Ben was murdered. The local FBI agent knows that Vicki had motive and opportunity, but no alibi. The gun is wiped clear of finger points except for a clear one that belongs to Vicki. Unless Vickie can find the real killer, she will be indicted for premeditated murder.

Margaret Coel has written an absorbing and interesting mystery that gives readers a glimpse into the modern day west. The protagonist is a feisty determined woman and her friend catholic priest Father O’ Malley is her mirror image. Together this unlikely pair gets in and out of trouble so many times it feels as if they are stars in a Wild West epic.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner