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The 18th installment of Philip R. Craig's Martha's Vineyard mystery series was finished shortly before his death in May of 2007. It's a fun romp and a fitting tribute.
"Vineyard Stalker" finds protagonist J.W. Jackson, and ex-Boston cop turned fisherman, all alone on the Vineyard. His wife and children, his steadying influences, have gone to "America" on vacation. He's bored and is quickly tiring of his bachelor status. So, when Carole Cohen approaches him with the job of finding out who's stalking her brother Roland, known locally as "The Monk" for his reclusive behavior, Jackson is eager to take the assignment. J.W. JacksonA number of people have a reason for getting Roland to make off of his land. It seems the property has been left to his cousin, Sally, by an aunt with the provision that Roland can live there as long as he'd like. He's made himself at home, building a sturdy, if basic, house on the land and living simply by gardening and taking odd carpentry jobs. However, the inland piece of land that wasn't worth a lot a few decades ago now could be sold for a small fortune. What's more both of the neighbors would love to snatch it up to add to their holdings. Love or GreedJackson's assignment seems like a simple one at first. Sit in the field for a night with night-vision goggles and take a few pictures of the perpetrators. However, his plan goes awry when he's discovered and stun-gunned. Still not dissuaded, he receives threatening calls and notes. Then, a body turns up on the property and Jackson knows he has to get serious and solve the case before someone else--possibly him--gets hurt. "Vineyard Stalker" is a light, but enjoyable read, with believable characters and enough action to keep you turning the pages. That Craig loved the Vineyard is unmistakable and even non-residents will enjoy the many local references. As an extra bonus, there are even three recipes at the end. About Philip R. CraigPhilip Craig was the author of 17 other Vineyard Mysteries as well as a cookbook. Raised on a ranch in Colorado, he went to school in Boston and taught English at Endicott Junior College in Beverly and Wheelock University in Boston before retiring in 1999 to his home in Martha's Vineyard to write full-time. Craig died in May of 2007 after a short battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Shirley, two children, and five grandchildren. Craig completed three novels that were unpublished at his death, including "Vineyard Stalker." Related Articles
The copyright of the article Vineyard Stalker by Philip Craig in Mystery/Crime Fiction is owned by Sandy Mitchell. Permission to republish Vineyard Stalker by Philip Craig in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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