I have read all of the authors books and I was eagerly awaiting the Lucifer Chord as I was aware one of the central characters was Ruthie, and that it drew on themes also from previous books. That said this book could be read without having read the previous novels.

The book for me was one of those rare beasts that I struggled to put down. This is one of FG’s better if not his best novel so far. I was able to identify with the locations and I found the characters and plot had real depth. What I also like is that the author does not overload the reader with descriptive information. He offers just enough to paint the scene or character on the page whilst allowing the readers imagination to finish the scene. This allows the book to flow at a reasonable pace. For me this really makes a book and is indicative of a talented writer. There has been mention in another review of the authors writing style. For me it works, its fresh, has pace, is well researched and allows the readers imagination to participate in the story.

The book is a supernatural thriller but again it is measured, not gratuitous or fantastic - just enough to make you think…..

If you are in any doubt, buy it and I don't think you will be disappointed. ( )

I did enjoy this story. For me it was a plus that there was no outright screaming horror, instead it simmered beneath the surface. I liked the characters. I may have to go back and read the previous stories that are referred to in this book. ( )

4.5 stars.

The Lucifer Chord by F.G. Cottam is an incredibly atmospheric and enthralling mystery with subtle yet eerie supernatural elements. Although characters from previous novels make guest appearances, this latest release can be read as a standalone.

Children's book author Ruthie Gillespie is staying with good friend Veronica Slade in hopes of mending her broken heart. When offered a research job by Carter Melville to write an essay on much celebrated singer/songwriter/guitarist Martin Mear whose band Ghost Legion still has a cult following, she harbors a few qualms about accepting the assignment. Reassured by her friend (and possible love interest) Michael Aldridge, Ruthie cautiously begins her research into the life and death of the iconic rock star.

Rumor and speculation swirl around the death of Martin Mear in 1975. Not everyone is convinced he is in fact dead so Ruthie's first order of business to try to authenticate his death. Hoping to glean a few psychic clues, her first interview is with medium Frederica Daunt, who has a family connection to Mear. Although she is not exactly a skeptic, Ruthie approaches her upcoming meeting with Frederica with an open mind. In the aftermath of their chilling encounter with a menacing spirit, Frederica flees to Portugal and warns Ruthie to tread lightly.

Ruthie's next meetings with Mear's girlfriend Paula Tort and his daughter April are certainly less ominous and provide her with important insight into the charismatic singer. However, the band's roadie and Martin' s friend, Sir Terence Maloney proves to be much more elusive. As she traces Mear's meteoric rise to stardom, Ruthie discovers Martin's uncle Max Askew has an unexpected connection to Martens and Degrue which is really a front for the Jericho Society. Ruthie has reason to be a bit worried about this link since her dealings with the Jericho Society in the past have been rather frightening. The deeper she digs into Mear's past, the more Ruthie begins to speculate about exactly how Martin's success originated.

With some very bone-chilling encounters and all too real deaths in the present, The Lucifer Chord is a spellbinding mystery with understated paranormal phenomena. Ruthie is a multi-faceted protagonist that is well-developed with realistic strengths and weaknesses. F.G. Cottam deftly incorporates slight supernatural elements that greatly enhance the fast-paced and engaging storyline. The novel comes to a clever conclusion that completely wraps up the various story arcs. I highly recommend this suspenseful mystery to readers of the genre. ( )