Unforced Error    by Mike Bowen Order:  USA  Can Poisoned Pen, 2004 (2004) Hardcover     Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Someone wielding a Civil War saber in the vicinity of a Civil War re-enactment kills a romance novel editor. Must be many of these sabers around the battlefield – but none should be sharp enough to kill! In the second of a series, Rep and Melissa Bowen are drawn into the murder due to their friendship with the suspect and his wife. The action is fast-paced, excitement on almost every page. Moral issues are at stake here as well as solving a murder. A World War II scenario evolves, and a necessary-to-the-plot lesson on grain silos creates a breath-holding scene. I enjoyed the many literary references, as I found I recognized most of them. A wonderful tour of Kansas City made me put that fine location on my must-see list. The seriousness of the re-enactors cleared up a question in my mind. I know someone immersed in re-enactments and I was never sure of his dedication – whether it was a good ol' boy get-together or a chance to place oneself in that period of our country's history. History definitely won out here. Unforced Error's author Mike Bowen is a trial lawyer, who has numerous mystery novels to his credit. He seems to have combined two careers very well. 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