The Clouds Roll Away by Sibella Giorello

Forensic geologist Raleigh Harmon returns home for Christmas but discovers Richmond, Virginia running low on goodness and light.

Although her exemplary service in Seattle lifted her disciplinary transfer, Raleigh lands a hometown civil rights case riddled with problems that could get her sent away again. When she helps out a fellow cop, her life goes on the line, forcing her undercover in a sting operation. As Raleigh realizes the lines are crossing and double-crossing, her domestic life starts to unravel. Her mother's mental health cracks like ice, her closest friend grows cold, and her old boyfriend DeMott comes a-calling, hoping for more than chestnuts by an open fire.

While the city glows with Christmas lights and carols, Raleigh is forced to rely on her sharpest skills to stay alive, hoping for that one clear moment when everything makes sense and the clouds roll away.

My Take: This is a well written thriller/mystery with a likeable and intelligent protagonist, Raleigh. The story is fast moving and includes twists an turns that are unexpected and add to the excitement of the story. That said, I do not feel qualified to give the story a proper review. This is the third book in a series. Although the story is one that can stand alone, many references are made to previous investigations and books. I felt like I walked into a suspenseful movie halfway through. I was lost and finally gave up halfway through.

I am not discouraged by getting lost by this book, however. The writing is good, the story is interesting, and, if I find the first book in this series, I won't hesitate to read it.

* This book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.  I have not been monetarily compensated.

Sibella’s celebrating the release of The Clouds Roll Away by giving away a KINDLE prize pack worth over $150.00!

 

One Grand Prize winner will receive:

• Latest Generation KINDLE with Wi-Fi
• $25 gift certificate to Amazon.com

To enter simply click on one of the icons below! Then tell your friends! Winner will be announced January 3, 2011 on Sibella's blog: http://sibellagiorello.blogspot.com/.