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Book Review of A Grave Mistake (Bayou, Bk 5)

A Grave Mistake (Bayou, Bk 5)
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New Orleans Detective Nat Archer heads to nearby Toussaint to enlist the aid of his partner Guy Gautreaux, on a leave of absence. Nat tells him someone shot and killed Pip Sedge in the French Quarter; the victim had ties to Toussaint. Guy says no as he still heals from a tragedy.

Pastry shop owner Jilly Gable wants Guy though he does all he can to discourage her even though he desires her too. He is concerned that a woman claiming to be Jilly's mother Edith, who deserted her years ago, wants to be back in her life. Edith has brought her husband antiques dealer Sam Preston with her. Guy does not trust the Prestons or their bodyguard although he admits he has only a feeling about the duo. Still he investigates because he will not allow any harm to come to Jilly, but is unaware of the link back to New Orleans.

Though the flood puts a damper on this Bayou romantic suspense thriller, readers will still appreciate this fine tale. The hero is a good guy trying not to get involved, but unable to keep out especially since he is falling in love with the upbeat Jilly. She is the more intriguing character with her need to belong to a loving family sending her willingly into accepting the Prestons and ultimately into danger. Stella Cameron provides a strong tale, but the real world provides an eerie feel to the Louisiana background.

Harriet Klausner