Night Mare: a Mystery

Rating:
Summary: An Entertaining Read, especially for Horse Lovers
Review: Franci McMahon's sophomore effort is again involving horses, only this time instead of distance riding, the story revolves around a newspaper reporter, Jane Scott, who shows championship horses as a hobby. Essentially a mystery and thriller, the story follows Jane and her friend Victoria, both of whom are upset about the bad treatment some of the horses in their area are receiving. With a little digging, Jane uncovers sleazy conspiracies to steal, transport, and re-sell prize show horses. When she sticks her nose in, all hell breaks loose and she very nearly loses her life.

The novel starts a bit rocky. The side story of Anne's breakup with her girlfriend is necessary to later plot development, but doesn't endear any of the characters to the reader. But once Jane actually begins investigating, McMahon's writing skill comes to the forefront and the mid-section of the book is gripping. The last third of the book effectively mixes romance with mystery and intrigue.

As with her 1994 novel, McMahon has written a colorful and engaging story, with horses as the secondary characters. The novel is entertaining and a quick read. Of particular note is the terrific-and thematically perfect-book cover by ArtByLucy which packages the book beautifully.

--Lori L. Lake, Midwest Book Review

Rating:
Summary: Exciting adventure
Review: Jane is a freelance journalist in Vermont whose relationship with her girlfriend (using the term loosely) is coming to an end. She and her best friend Victoria both have a fierce love of horses, so when a horse Victoria considered buying is brutally murdered, Jane can't help but get involved in the investigation, especially since the police aren't doing anything. All too quickly, Jane is hurled into danger. The trail takes her to Montana, where she encounters a strong woman who helps her in more ways than one. Overall, the story and characters would've benefitted from more exposition. It seemed like I was being hurried through the book so Jane could get on with things, whereas I would have much rather lingered. "Night Mare" is an exciting adventure that leaves the reader begging for a sequel.