Proof of Life: A J. P. Beaumont Novel    by J. A. Jance Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2017 (2017) Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Now that J. P. Beaumont (Beau to those who have followed his life for years) has retired, he expected to spend his time seriously at leisure. Ah, well, the plans of mice and man oft times go astray. Beau is asked to investigate a house fire. Police are sure the fire was accidentally started by the very man who died in the blaze. Several persons believe that the fire was arson, with intent to kill while erasing all traces of the crime. Beau recognizes that after three decades of police work, he is not going to be satisfied with time on his hands. When it looks as though a very large (we're talking reeeally big, here) dog is to become a house mate to Beau and his wife Mel, he acquiesces to the huge change in their lives and the dog accompanies him on his quest for answers to questions about that fire. The dog later proves a great asset. As a reader, I have read almost everything I could get my hands on if written by J. A. Jance. I once attended a book signing of hers and was impressed by how professional but so very likable she was. A gracious lady with a marvelous sense of humor which is readily apparent in her work. You can't go wrong starting one of her many, many books. She has written at least twenty-three novels featuring Beau, at least eighteen starring Joanna Brady, and also at least eleven with Ali Reynolds as the protagonist. Mustn't forget the book of Poetry, After the Fire. Does the woman never sleep? Hate to mention this – but I will. Winter is coming. Stock up with good books to be read by the fire. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews