This is the 3rd book of the Two Rivers series by Ann Cleeves. Jem Rosco returns to his hometown of Greystone. His dead body is found in a dinghy anchored in Scully Cove and Matt Venn is called in to investigate. I have read all of Cleeve's books in her Vera Stanhope and Shetland series. She wants us to pay attention to the story as the characters act it out according to their personalities. She always keeps her cards close to her chest as she only lets us know as much as we need to know as we read towards the perfect ending. I'm now looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you like secrets mixed with your mystery thrillers then you will love this book.

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From gale-force winds, rising tides, and going out on stormy seas on a lifeboat search and rescue, Ann Cleeves' The Raging Storm kept me drenched in salt water and glued to the page. This talented woman knows how to blend mystery with setting and characterization to make a compelling read.

Venn's own history and his upbringing within a religious cult have made him a loner, someone who's introspective and prefers observation instead of interaction. Through word and deed, his methods have begun taking root in Jen and Ross, the two members of his team. These two tend to be competitive, and it can be entertaining to watch them try to one-up each other.

The fictional village of Greystone is one that I would want to avoid since it is very insular and wary of anyone who doesn't live there. As Matthew, Jen, and Ross interview villagers, readers watch the three form opinions of each one. The problem is... are these opinions valid? Even the "all-seeing" Matthew Venn finds out that he can be led astray.

The Raging Storm is another masterful outing for Ann Cleeves. Long may she write, and long may I read every one of her books.

(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)

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