Horns Of A Dilemma

by: Jo A Hiestand and Paul Hornung

Published by: Hilliard & Harris Publishers

Reviewed by Nicole M. Boals

In a sleepy village, the town gathers to participate in its odd yearly tradition of turning the Devil’s Stone. The turning goes off without a hitch and everyone returns to the comfort of their own homes. Everyone that is, except for the mysterious newcomer who is found dead near the newly turned stone. As the skilled team of Derbyshire Constabulary starts their investigation, they have no idea what lies ahead. With mysterious strangers, shady locals, and unexpected and unexplained happenings, the investigation will keep even the most skilled inspectors guessing.

Beyond just the investigation, the personal lives of the characters play an important role. Detective-Sergeant Brenna Taylor must keep her feelings for her boss secret, all the while trying to develop a new relationship. That boss, Detective-Chief Inspector Geoffrey Graham, a well-respected and skilled officer who happens to be from the village, must balance his personal feelings for the townspeople with his duty. Additional characters keep you guessing as to who the murderer is and what the motive might be.

I had trouble with the book for two reasons. First off, I found it a little difficult to bond with the characters because of the many “mysteries” behind their personalities. I have since learned that if you start with earlier novels before reading this one, you have a better understanding of the characters. Starting at the beginning of the series would definitely add to the experience of this novel. The second reason is, admittedly, my own fault. It grows from the fact that I am American and completely unfamiliar with British lingo. My brain couldn’t register what a torch or “a cuppa” was. However, this trouble actually ended up as a surprising bonus to reading the book. After my initial frustration (I HATE not knowing the meaning of a word), it was actually fun to expand my vocabulary by looking up the meaning of the word.

This is Hiestand’s first time working with a co-author, a retired police officer.

Start with Ms. Hiestand’s earlier novels involving detective Brenna Taylor and keep the Internet handy for British-to-American translation, and you will find Horns of Dilemma to be a well-written and intricately woven murder mystery.

Armchair Interviews says: Excellent read for British police procedural fans who like interesting characters and those charming British expressions.

Author’s Web site: http://www.JoHiestand.com