Dollycas’s Thoughts

Haven Harbor holds an annual event, Blessing of the Fleet, which honors all those lost at sea over the centuries. While there Angie meets Ike Hamilton. Ike’s family home was crumbling down around him. The chamber wanted the property condemned but that doesn’t stop Ike, he just moves into the garage. With his disability money, the few dollars he made from bottle redemption and a little help from a few friends he made it on his own even taking in a young homeless man. But he always was afraid “the chambers” were after him.

The town was shocked when Ike was killed in his garage. The teenager, Leo, who he took in was the one to find him and the prime suspect in the murder. Angie and her friend and needlepointer, Dave Perry, a high school teacher, believe the guy is innocent. Dave even takes Leo into his own home promising he will be available for any questions the police may have. He also starts to work with Angie to find the real person responsible for Ike’s death.

Ms. Wait introduces readers to Ike Hamilton. An independent and very principled man, traits that may have played a very big part in why the man was killed. Before his death he also let us see his heart by opening up his “home” to another needy soul. I was upset that someone shortens his life. I was anxious to learn the “rest of the story” and the pages were flying. The author lays out a sad tale. A tale that took another life before the case was solved.

All my favorite regular characters were back. The Maine Needlepointers were busy finishing up orders before tourist season begins, even a couple of custom orders, one I would love for my home.  They also had time to pitch in to help Dave and Angie with their investigation.  Gram and Pastor Tom are also very involved because there are so many ties to the church as more suspects are added to the list. Even Patrick lent a helping hand. All these characters are well developed and genuine. This core group drew me in from the first book in this series and their growth continues to bring me back for more. I enjoy following along with their everyday life almost as much as the mystery. This time getting to know more about Dave Perry was so good.

The journey to solving the mystery was very well-plotted. I did have the actual killer in mind early in the story due to something I had witnessed in my own life. As the story continued my thoughts were clearly cemented and I almost cheered out loud as the reveal was made and the person got their comeuppance.

Ms. Wait also gives readers the treat of sampler quotations at the start of each chapter. I always seem to read them twice, as I am reading the book and again after I finish to make note of ones I want to save and remember.

I highly recommend this entire series!