by Kathleen Costa
Details at the end of this post on how to enter to win an ebook copy of the book and a link to purchase it.
Under A Lying MoonThe Depression covered the country like a dark cloud, and even with her talent, Madeline Moon couldn’t find unemployment. Her silver lining, though, was inheriting Moon Enterprises from an uncle she knew little about and relocated to Kentucky. Using her position and new found wealth, Mona was determined to improve the lives of those who worked for her which was not looked upon as positive by other people in her class. She did enjoy meeting important and influential people, but her wealth as well as business practices and holdings also brought unwelcome attention in the form of kidnappings, mayhem, and murder as well as angering a very powerful international government to whom she emphatically said “Nein!” She has Pinkerton agents shadowing her every move along with Lord Robert Farley, the Duke of Brynelleth. Her and Lord Bob’s relationship had issues, but ultimately nothing stopped their nuptials, albeit not for the lack of trying. So it’s now the Duke and Duchess of Brynelleth or as is necessary for security … Mr. And Mrs. Maplewood.
Mona Moon and Lord Farley are sailing to England and the Brynelieth estate where they plan to honeymoon, but before the newlyweds can board the ship, Mona receives an urgent telegram from her man on, or better yet, under the ground, Rupert Hunt:
Potential Riot at Montana Mine … Dead Miner … Possible Murder … Come at Once.
The most valuable and lucrative of the Moon Enterprises holdings are the copper mines. Mona had been emphatic about not doing business with the Germans when they came calling which resulted in several covert and overt gestures to get her to change her mind. She put her trust in Rupert Hunt to be her eyes and ears at the mine, despite knowing his scoundrel tendencies. When they finally arrive, incognito, the weather is cold and dreary, and the tale Hunt tells of the murder and arrest has overtones of mistrust, animosity, and tension among the workers, but the talk of strike angers Mona who pays premium wages in hopes to avoid such issues. Of the four mines Rupert was sent to evaluate, this one is the worst for corruption: malfeasance, abuse, threats, and murder. But, Mona witnessed Rupert searching through her belongings, and despite his report about what he’d uncovered, can she trust him now? Can she trust anyone connected to the mines? As Mrs. Maplewood, with Mr. Maplewood as support, she’s discovers some uncomfortable truths, but as Miss Mona she’ll solve a murder and set things right … then, resume her honeymoon.
Abigail Keam has again delivered the goods in this thrilling eleventh adventure in her Mona Moon Mystery series with a complicated investigation, with and without disguise, that detailed racial discrimination, embezzlement, price gouging, appalling conditions, threats, and murder … whew, what an incredible “couldn’t put down” experience! The drama continues with key witnesses and possible informants scared for their lives, rightfully so, and reluctant to share what they know, but slowly the picture becomes clearer and more dangerous since Mona and Robert see adversaries from every directions. Another murder, personal jeopardy, and a near miss assassination complicates the investigation and put me on the edge of my seat. Even though it seems the answers revealed provided some justice and changes at the mine in the works, the final twist was realistic and appropriate! Don’t miss this one … it is sure a personal favorite!
Be a Big Abigail Keam Fan!
Along with this Mona Moon Mystery series, a personal favorite, Abigail Keam pens three other diverse series sure to meet any taste: Last Chance for Love, “an inspirational series where people with problems visit the Last Chance Motel in Key Largo in desperate attempts to change their lives,” Princess Maura Tales Epic Fantasy Series, “a treat for readers who love epic fantasy, sword and sorcery tales mixed with action and a spoonful of supernatural,” and another personal favorite, the Josiah Reynolds Mystery series about “a female beekeeper turned sleuth.” Something for everyone!
Facebook — Abigail Keam, Author
Amazon Author Page — Abigail Keam
Enter to win a copy of Murder Under a Western Moon by Abigail Keam by making a comment below about potpourri of topics: (1) a visit to a western-themed event or attraction, (2) a favorite female amateur detective, or (3) have you made a trip by train?, simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line "western,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen August 5, 2023. US residents only and you must be 18 or older to enter. If entering via comment please include your email address so we can contact you. You can read our privacy statement here if you like.Check out other mystery articles, reviews, book giveaways & mystery short stories in our mystery section in Kings River Life and in our mystery category here on KRL News & Reviews. And join our mystery Facebook group to keep up with everything mystery we post, and have a chance at some extra giveaways. And check out our new mystery podcast which features mystery short stories and first chapters read by local actors! A new episode went up week.
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Disclosure: This post contains links to an affiliate program, for which we receive a few cents if you make purchases. KRL also receives free copies of most of the books that it reviews, that are provided in exchange for an honest review of the book.Kathleen Costa is a long-time resident of the Central Valley, and although born in Idaho, she considers herself a “California Girl.” Graduating from CSU-Sacramento, she is a 35+ year veteran teacher having taught in grades 1-8 in schools from Sacramento to Los Angeles to Stockton to Lodi. Currently Kathleen is enjoying her retirement revitalizing hobbies along with exploring writing, reading for pleasure, and spending 24/7 with her husband.
I went on a Scenic railway trip, steam train. I really enjoyed that. The scenery was beautiful. We were able to watch the engine get turned around on the turntable, that was fun even though we were standing outside in the sleet to watch it. I'd definitely go again. There are other scenic railways kind of local that I'd like to try out. sue.stoner72@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteMy favorite female amateur detective is Laura Levine's Jaine Austen
ReplyDeleteWe have a winner!
ReplyDeleteLorie Ham