Fire, Arson and Murder

In Fire at Will's author Cherie O'Boyle introduces a cast of unusual and sometimes unlikable characters. Her lead character Estela Nogales. a clinical psychologist, lives in Arroyo Loco, California, and loco the people are. We meet them at their Homeowners Association Landscaping Committee arguing over what can be planted in and around their houses. Even vegetables need approval. To cap it off there is a rule against eye rolling at the meetings. I would never survival at my own HOA meetings if it were not for the ability to roll my eyes.

The thorn (no pun intended) in everyone's side is Will Rosenblum. He does not want his neighbor to plant a magnolia tree, and when she does anyway, he drowns it to death. So it's no surprise when a fire breaks out at Will's house. But when Will's body is found in the charred remains of his home, there is concern for his wife Janet, who is not around.

This motley crew argues over everything and they eavesdrop shamelessly. When incriminating

pictures are found shoved into one of their mailboxes, some of the pieces begin to fall together. Who set the fire at Will's? Where is Janet? Whose car was parked in Delia's driveway while she was away?

Estela sets out to answer some of these questions. With some of her wacky neighbors, she discovers a set of trails behind their houses that could be significant in discovering the arsonist.

There are times when these characters are so annoying, I cannot imagine living in this community, but when one of the children is in jeopardy, they rise to the occasion and act as a unified group. The mystery is solved, but the end of the book just kind of falls flat. I'm hoping the second book in the series expands on the characters in a more positive way. I'm looking forward to reading Iced Tee.