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This is the fourth book in the Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mystery series. It is a mix of mystery, history, and the supernatural. The story follows Natalie Seachrist, a former journalist with an unusual gift: she has visions of the past and future. When she and her partner, Keoni, attend a Buddhist temple luncheon, they expect a peaceful afternoon. Instead, they stumble into a murder mystery when a wealthy donor is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As Natalie’s visions start piecing together cryptic details of the crime, she and Keoni are pulled into an investigation that stretches beyond Hawaii, touching on Asian history, art, and politics.
Natalie combines her investigative skills with her supernatural abilities. She’s sharp, resourceful, and refreshingly human, making her easy to root for. Her relationship with Keoni adds warmth to the story, offering moments of humor and tenderness amid the chaos. Their partnership adds depth to the narrative, creating an authentic and compelling dynamic.
The plot moves at a steady pace, balancing suspense, detective work, and personal reflection. Burrows-Johnson keeps readers hooked by gradually revealing new twists, ensuring the mystery remains unpredictable but never overwhelming. Instead of offering easy answers, Natalie’s visions provide intriguing, cryptic clues that she must carefully interpret. As the story progresses, Natalie and Keoni find themselves entangled in a case that is far more complex than it initially seems, involving long-buried secrets and hidden connections that keep the suspense alive until the very end.
Burrows-Johnson’s vivid storytelling transports readers to Hawaii, weaving a suspenseful tale filled with intrigue and rich cultural details. One of the story’s standout elements is its richly drawn setting. Burrows-Johnson paints a vibrant picture of Hawaii, from serene Buddhist temples to local communities. The cultural depth in the story adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the mystery feel more immersive and multidimensional. The story also offers a glimpse into the traditions and philosophies of Buddhism, adding an educational component to the mystery. The attention to historical accuracy and artistic references gives readers a deeper appreciation of the story’s setting.
Beyond the murder mystery, the story touches on the concept of fate versus free will as Natalie grapples with the responsibility of her visions and how they influence the unfolding events. The historical and artistic details make the story feel even richer, appealing to readers who enjoy mysteries with an intellectual edge. The book does an excellent job of weaving together elements of past and present, drawing parallels between historical events and modern-day mysteries.
Burrows-Johnson’s writing is engaging and immersive. Whether describing a tense moment of discovery, a ceremonial ritual, or the beautiful Hawaiian landscape, the prose brings every scene to life, striking the right balance between descriptive detail and narrative drive, keeping the story moving while still allowing readers to savor the atmosphere. The dialogue feels natural, and the character interactions add authenticity to the story, making it feel like the reader is alongside Natalie as she unravels the mystery.
Overall, this book is enjoyable and offers more than just a mystery to solve. Its rich setting, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking narrative stand out in the cozy mystery genre. Readers who enjoy stories infused with history, culture, and a touch of the supernatural will find this story particularly rewarding. Burrows-Johnson has crafted a compelling, multilayered mystery that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review