Things Half in Shadow    by Alan Finn Order:  USA  Can Simon & Schuster, 2014 (2014) Softcover, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Things Half in Shadow by Alan Finn takes place in Philadelphia after the Civil War. Edward Clark is living a life that suits him just fine. He reports the crime scene for the Evening Bulletin. He is engaged to the daughter of a wealthy and important man. Money is not a problem for him as he inherited a goodly sum, but he dislikes being idle – hence the reporting for the newspaper. Society is demanding at this time. There must be no blemishes connected to one's name, even if that blemish was committed by a forbear. Edward uses a false name to hide the fact that his father resides in the Eastern State Penitentiary for the murder of his wife, Edward's mother. That would not go over well with the Philadelphia gentry. Edward wants to write an article for the paper exposing all the mediums in the city. He makes arrangements to attend a séance conducted by a well-known medium. During the séance, objects fly around the room and startle the attendees. And the medium is murdered! Now things heat up. Clark determines that, to save his job, he must find the perpetrator of the dastardly deed. He is joined by a woman who seeks the same thing he does – to uncover a killer. This style of supernatural mystery doesn't usually hold my attention. Things Half in Shadow, however, did just that. I didn't miss a word or a clue. This is a very good read, and satisfyingly long. More than worth every minute I spent on it, as well as the lost sleep. Don't miss this one. By the way, Alan Finn is the pen name of an acclaimed author of mysteries and thrillers. Another good reason to obtain a copy. 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