Review: Another Favorite Lanyon Mystery
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 5, 2014
Josh Lanyon's new mystery is already on my favorites list. "Stranger on the Shore" is for those of us who love mysteries with a dash of romance – a real Who Done It with well written plot (plus twists). Well written is what I can count on when I read something by Josh. It's not written in a hurry and filled with plot holes or gratuitous sex or inane dialogue.  It is instead a solid story with interesting characters that have depth and a sprinkling of Josh’s trademark humor.  There are essential elements in a good mystery: characters, setting, plot, problem, and solution. These elements are critical to the story and Josh Lanyon adheres to these fundamentals thereby keeping the reader engaged, following the plot, and picking up on clues, so when the solution is ultimately revealed we are not frustrated by implausibility.“Stranger on the Shore” drew me in from the moment Griff, one of the main characters, describes the Arlington mansion as “white Italianate faade of the villa, graceful columns, punctiliously flat roofs, balconies with black wrought iron railings” Every word is chosen to convey the beauty of a grand manor that can be seen vividly in our imagination and emphasizes the wealth of its occupants.  This is the setting that gives us insight into the lifestyle of the very rich inhabitants whose safe haven was breached when four year old Brian was kidnapped twenty years earlier.Another trademark feature of Josh’s writing is his developed characters. Early on we know that Griff is young, thoughtful, and determined, but carrying some past baggage which causes him anxiety.  Pierce Mather, Arlington family friend and attorney on the other hand, exudes confidence, arrogance, and the pit bull like determination you want in a good lawyer.  The interaction and chemistry between the two main characters is classic Lanyon – two strong individuals whose personalities offer interesting dynamics in conflict and collaboration as well as romance.  An example of the undercurrent is an exchange between the characters when Griff and Pierce meet at dinner:“What is the right word?” Mather inquired.Yeah, definitely an ironic glint in his light eyes.That unwavering regard was making Griff self-conscious.As it was probably intended to do.“Stranger on the Shore” has a definite plot/story that begins with Griff arriving at the Arlington’s estate to research and write about a kidnapping. However Griff’s course is not going to be an easy one, and family members do not want to cooperate with his efforts.  Josh smoothly moves the narrative along keeping the reader involved from start to the big reveal at the end.  I did not finish the book questioning the logic or wondering if the plot altered midway or read a different story altogether. Josh writes well and cleverly without the need to show off or distract his audience with unnecessary over the top action, endless droll dialogue and gratuitous sex designed to fill the page rather than add to the story.“Stranger on the Shore” is a classic mystery with main characters I could invest myself in and care about the outcome.  I loved the story. I loved the characters. I will read it again and again, which is why I rate it five stars.