by
Sue Henry
ISBN: 0-7366-4664-7 Order from: Books on Tape Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
Tense and full of dog-sledding details, the rather bland heroine and lack of active investigation make this only a moderately exciting story.
Reviewed by David on July 03, 2004
Genre: Mystery (Private Investigator, Alaska)
Synopsis: Jessie Arnold raises sled dogs. Mushing, or dog-sledding, is a popular sport in Alaska, and Jessie is a competitive racer in this challenging but satisfying sport.
When Jessie decides to enter the Yukon Quest, perhaps the toughest race in mushing, she counts of dangerous weather and a test of endurance. However, she is unprepared for human malice. One of the young racers is kidnapped, and soon a murder is added to the mix. Jessie and her wonderful dog team can deal with many natural dangers, but even they are over their heads with firearms and treachery.
Full Review: The portrayal of the mushing world and the dangers and beauties of the international Yukon Quest are excellent, as is the warm portrayal of the dogs in this atmospheric mystery. The humans seem a bit less interesting, and for much of the novel Jessie remains a rather passive if anxious observer of the criminal endeavors. Much of the action happens towards the end of the book, where the heroine comes alive in the face of danger. However, the generally passive and stoic character of Jessie Arnold result in only moderate sympathy and thus moderate excitement for much of the plot.
Generally enjoyable, the book shines more by its background than by its characters.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6.5; Style: 6; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 1999, Books on Tape, 1999, Audio cassette, 7 cassettes
ISBN: 0-7366-4664-7 Order from: Books on Tape Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com