Murder in West Virginia

In Bitter River, author Julia Keller captures the despair and poverty of the residents of the small town of Archer's Gap, West Virginia. When county prosecuting attorney Bell Elkins learns that a young woman from the town has been found dead in the Bitter River, she seeks out her friend local sheriff Nick Fogelsong to learn more.

What she learns is that although Lucinda Trimble's body was found in a car in the river, she was dead before the car went into the water. In addition the 16-year-old was pregnant. What went wrong with this young woman who had so much promise and who would want to kill her? Signs point to her boyfriend Shawn Doggett, but Bell is sure he is innocent.

When a series of seemingly unrelated events occur in Archer's Gap, Bell and Nick are distracted from the murder investigation. First a rifle shot pierces a window at Bell's office narrowly missing her secretary, then Bell's friend Matt freaks out when someone touches his shoulder, and

finally a huge explosion rips through Ike's, the favorite breakfast  place in town. Is there a common denominator in these events?

Out of nowhere Wendy Doggett confesses to killing Lucinda. Bell is sure she is covering for one of her sons, but Wendy insists she killed Lucinda.

Solving the case takes Bell and Nick in multiple directions leading to a dramatic conclusion.

Although not truly a cozy mystery Bitter River is a suspenseful story and I enjoyed it.

Can't wait to read this book, click here to purchase it.