John J. Delaney (1910–1985)

Prior to Jemma Thorne's maternity leave, she was the head of geology and paleontology at Swanbourne University and a trustee of Lulcombe Museum on the Dorset coast. Nemesis Sally O'Keefe, Temporary Acting Head at the university, is unhappy that Jemma is returning to work early, even if only part-time, and has a surprise in store for Jemma. That is only the beginning of events to cast a shadow on Jemma's professional reputation. All the while, a possibility that she hasn't wanted to face creates chaos for herself and her family.

Using the backdrop of scientific discovery, there is excitement and wonder, but it is the characters that captivate my attention. The relationships, the balancing act of career and family life or a student studying or having fun with friends, the differences of the balancing act for men and women, the competitiveness that can lead to jealousy, the decision of justifying revenge, and the fear of an uncomfortable conversation. As Jemma begins to react to the havoc others are creating, the suspicion becomes a gripping mystery that causes wonder how the reveal within the investigation is even possible to discover the truth.

I enjoyed Book 2 even more than Book 1, "A Dangerous Fossil." The books can be enjoyed as stand-alone mysteries. Still, I would encourage readers to read this series to fully appreciate the dynamics of the relationships and the motivations of their choices.

I look forward to continuing to read this series to enjoy more of the author's writing!… (meer)

Jurassic fan? Not this girl. A reptile fan? Not this girl. And a marine reptile in fossil form? YES! If it is a plesiosaur discovered by a border collie named Dino, and brings kudos and trouble too for Jurassic Jemma Thorne.

Jemma is the head of geology and paleontology at Swanbourne University and a trustee of Lulcombe Museum on the Dorset coast. But even her nephews know she prefers to be outside with her rucksack filled with tools for digging fossils.

A reader friend’s favorite expression to describe a good book was to share, “It draws you in.” From the first page, I was drawn into the story. I loved Jemma as soon as she promised Dino a bone from the butcher to replace his discovery. I became so engaged in the mystery I wished I had started reading earlier in the evening.

I highly recommend this well-written mystery. The characters captivate, the setting is appealing, the investigation intrigues, the former lover returns, and a secret of the past could unfurl and change everything.

Imagine reading outside your comfort zone and wondering if the author has started on Book 2.… (meer)

A Woman Clothed with the Sun considers the seven most significant apparitions of Our Lady in the past two centuries: that of the Miraculous Medal at Paris, those at La Salette, Lourdes, Knock, Fatima, Beauraing, Banneux--and also the sixteenth-century appearance of Mary at Guadalupe with its profound message for Americans. The historical background of each apparition is given, the vision itself described, and Mary's messages are quoted by writers distinguished for their special knowledge of the apparitions and their literary excellence.… (meer)