Endangered Species

Anna Pigeon Mystery: 9

ISBN: 0-7887-5407-6 Order from: Recorded Books

A satisfying mystery with a likable protagonist, decent characters, and an intriguing, unpredictable plot.

Reviewed by David on May 15, 2002

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Endangered Species. Anna Pigeon is a law enforcement ranger in the National Park Service. Serving on a fire crew on a Georgia island, Anna and her fellow rangers put out a fire when a small plane crashes, killing the pilot and the passenger.

The routine investigation turns exciting when evidence of foul play is found. The puzzle becomes deeper when the passenger turns out to be a last-minute substitution for Anna's boss. If this was murder—who was the intended victim? As more motives show up, and someone attacks Anna doing routine work, Anna's training in law enforcement takes over the fire suppression duties.

Full Review: A pleasant mystery in this satisfying series, the plot moves along in parallel to another, background development—the threats to Anna's sister Molly, and Molly's introduction to Frederick the Fed, Anna's long-distance beau from the FBI.

The plot is convoluted, in a good way. There are plenty of suspicious circumstances and red herrings. The end proves surprising, as several independent crimes are revealed, some deadly.

While a bit distracting with the parallel personal plot, the investigation and the solving of the complex mysteries on the island, along with evocative and skilled descriptions of nature, make this a satisfying, largely independent novel in an enjoyable series.

Overall: 6; Plot: 7; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 5.5;

ISBN: 0-7887-5407-6 Order from: Recorded Books