Bella Anderson, a recently retired university professor now facing the somber reality of widowhood, begins a new phase of life in the picturesque and tranquil setting of the Smoky Mountains. Inheriting her family’s charming cabin, she anticipates a peaceful existence, a gentle retirement amid the splendor of nature. This idyllic vision is shattered, however, when unexpected events thrust her into a world of crime, action, and danger, turning her once-peaceful haven into a foreboding landscape that challenges her in unexpected ways.

In High on a Mountain, author Jacque Jacobs crafts a thrilling novel that transcends traditional cabin mysteries by introducing innovative and compelling narrative techniques. The book’s opening sequence presents a colorful cast of characters, each entering the story in a way that engages the reader. This skillful orchestration creates a rich social backdrop that becomes an integral part of the plot’s intricate fabric.

Though the diversity of characters might at first seem jarring, Jacobs’s decision to spotlight figures such as a professor, a grocery store owner, and a sheriff is inspired. Each of these characters plays a vital role in the unfolding drama, and Jacobs’s deft handling ensures that all major players have a distinct voice, allowing readers an all-encompassing view of the narrative. This approach maintains the suspense without prematurely revealing the story’s secrets.

The thoughtful pace at which the mystery unravels allows readers ample time for reflection and connection with the plot’s complexities. Jacobs’s prose is finely tuned, avoiding the pitfall of stretching the story thin and risking tedium. Instead, the deliberate structure builds to a satisfying climax, providing a richly deserved payoff that leaves readers eager for more.

High on a Mountain is a wonderfully balanced novel, bringing together elements of mystery, adventure, and serenity within its pages. It is a must-read for fans of isolated mysteries and crime fiction.

Pages: 285 | ASIN : B09CG219H5