This Romantic Suspense in the first in the Holly Anna Paladin Mystery series by Christy Barritt. I loved this book and look forward to more from this author and this series.
Holly Paladin has recently discovered she has a rare form of cancer, and has been given a year to live. Instead of dwelling on her disease, she decides to “commit random acts of kindness,” volunteer wherever and whenever she can, be a supportive friend and family member, and avoid the calls from her oncologist.
However, in usual Holly Anna style, she immediately gets herself into deep trouble. If the authorities find out where she’s been, she could be implicated with murder and obstruction of justice, to say nothing of ruining her brother’s chances for the senatorial race, and her sister’s upcoming wedding. With all this in mind, she certainly can’t tell them about her cancer.
Holly and her friend Jamie manage to hide their involvement, but when her high school nemesis shows up in town—as a police officer—the stakes go up. If only Chase Dexter weren’t so handsome…and so nice.
Holly and Chase’s investigations lead them to suspicions including friends and associates, to street kids and even the other senatorial candidate.
I listened to this book on audio, although I also have the ebook, and I couldn’t put it down. Holly’s wild antics, her loveable if flawed reasoning, and her 1960s femininity, combine to give this book flair and fun.
Note: I’ve read a couple of Barritt’s Squeaky Clean Mysteries too, and loved them.
Wasn’t it a fun read? I enjoyed the Squeaky Clean series too, although I haven’t finished it yet.
Yeah, I really liked these. I’m reading another of hers and it’s good, but I miss the crazy humour.
Well, Jan, it goes to show a writer can’t please everybody. 😉
I read this book and disliked Holly’s character from Act one. Her thinking was so wrapped up in herself — even finding a body was all about “what people will think of me.” (As you say, her flawed reasoning.)
I reread the book a year later and my second impression was more charitable. Still, Holly’s behaviour and her attitudes toward her health, her mom, her boss, the detectives and the truth all seemed so “rebellious teenager” — not what I’d expect from a 28-year-old Christian social worker.
On the other hand, Christy Barritt is a very good writer. She draws you into the story and you keep reading to find out what happens
I know, Chris. Our reviews can be very different, perhaps based on our expectations. I was looking for entertainment, and I found it. But you are more discerning than I in what you deduced from the character traits. Just like when some people say a particular movie is great, and I can’t watch it through because I’m appalled at some of the content. I appreciate your reply. Makes me think.