Paul Passoja has lived on Michigan's Upper Peninsula all of his 70-plus years and would never invite a bear attack with bacon grease around his tent--which is why Native American Deputy Sheriff Steve Martinez refuses to accept Passoja's death as a tragic accident. Plus, as he begins to question Passoja's family and associates, Martinez notices that there are too many grieving tears not being shed over the death. The history of the area also becomes a factor. The peacefulness of this forested haven is an illusion: Passoja was at the center of a history of treachery that extends back decades. Kisor, the longtime literary editor and columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, has surely read a lot of mysteries through the years. He has cherry-picked the best elements and woven them into a satisfying mystery with a clever plot, engaging protagonist, and believable dialogue. And Kisor doesn't stop there. He adds a nice love story and even tosses in a little homespun Christmas cheer. An impressive debut.

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