Proud to share this editorial review of The Bone Nest from Diane Donovan of Midwest Book Review
In The Bone Nest, 1986 was the year a serial killer destroyed lives in the small town of Bluesummer, Texas. Four lifelong friends who spend their last summer together before college find themselves at the heart of events when one of their own is murdered – and the suspect might be a kindred soul.
Fast forward thirty years. Troy Terrell awaits execution on death row for his crimes, facing a final appeal before the end. Attorney Joaquin Ramos becomes convinced of Troy’s innocence. As one of Troy’s old friends, Greer, joins forces with Troy’s lawyer, the dangerous outcome of their investigation shows that the real killer may still be free.
Shanessa Gluhm crafts a powerful saga that rests its pace and attraction on evolving relationships that stem from youth and blossom under the mantle of adulthood. The dialogues and interactions between special interests build intrigue not just about past events, but present-day outcomes:
“Let me help,” Melrose said, tugging the phone from his pocket.
Joaquin shivered at her touch. “Check it for me? The Outlook app.”
“I need your thumb,” Melrose replied.
Joaquin removed his hand from the steering wheel, and Melrose took it, pulling it toward her. Was it his imagination, or did she hold on longer than necessary to unlock the phone?
From revelations about whom was last involved with their friend to motivations, drugs, relationships, and DNA testing, The Bone Nest circumvents matters of the law and heart in an astute dance. It presents three-dimensional characters whose beliefs and purposes intersect in realistic, sometimes dangerous ways.
The plot builds up connections, creating a compelling juxtaposition of personalities and actions that will keep readers thoroughly engaged and guessing about outcomes and motivations.
Librarians and readers seeking a tale of justice, truth, redemption, and friendship will find The Bone Nest a formidable, gripping saga that cements action and reaction in characters whose lives are not only realistic, but engrossingly unpredictable.
The story promises to ripple out from the murder mystery crowd into circles that base their reading pleasure on the strength of personalities and investigations that embrace growth, revelation, and connection.
-Diane Donovan for Midwest Book Review
Shanessa Gluhm 