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A Vineyard Killing    by Philip R. Craig Amazon.com order for
Vineyard Killing
by Philip R. Craig
Order:  USA  Can
Avon, 2004 (2004)
Paperback
* *   Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth

A Vineyard Killing takes place – gasp, surprise – on Martha's Vineyard. A place I have never been and would like to visit. And after reading this book, I've placed that destination on my life list.

This is a fun cozy mystery. Easy to read. Packed with action. Think sword play and bulletproof vests. It's the fourteenth Vineyard mystery for author Craig. He knows the island – lives there. Whether he creates his characters from living, breathing islanders is a moot point. They are engaging or enraging – whichever they are meant to be.

Retired Boston cop J. W. Jackson turned fisherman / sleuth runs up against real estate mogul Donald Fox. When Fox's brother Paul is shot, Jackson is drawn into the fray. Was Donald the target and the shooter a really bad shot? Or was Paul the intended victim of a sharpshooter? Another matter puts Jackson deep into the woods of the island to track down an elusive and mysterious man.

Jackson is an endearing protagonist. He is willing to put himself out to do what he feels is right. Although he thinks of himself as lazy, he seems to put in a fairly busy day, including taking care of his two children and fixing the meals when necessary. Treat yourself to this gem. Great beach reading.

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