Alaska Gray

by Susan Froetschel

Jane Mcbride is starting over. Leaving bad memories in Boston, she has come to the Alaskan island of Sitka to take a job as finance director for the Native-controlled Katmal Shoe corporation, only to find that the position no longer exists and that she is expected to leave. The harsh, magnificent land is compelling, however, and Jane is determined to make a success of her new life. Ignoring the somewhat sinister incidents occurring around her, Jane finds work teaching two business courses at the local college and befriends some of the townspeople, including psychiatrist Michael Benoit, reporter Bob Denson, her landlady Francesca LaQuestion, and Francesca's troubled son Bojack. Then a young woman is killed and Jane lands in the middle of a dangerous situation - with no one to trust but herself.

Genres: Mystery

256 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 1, 1994

About the author

Susan Froetschel is the author of five mystery books. The most recent is Allure of Deceit, set in rural Afghanistan, about how charity can have a hidden agenda and lying is a form of self-defense.

Reviews

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked Jane McBride's character and I liked the influence of the Native Alaskan culture. I thought the setting of Alaska- how removed it is, how dark it gets - was perfect for a creepy mystery. The prologue wasn't necessary but it tied in nicely once the murder happened. I thought that the gentleman being arrested at the local campus was part of the story but it never came up again.

Are there more Jane McBride mysteries from Froetschel?

[Jeff Dickison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fair little mystery of a woman moving from Boston to Sitka for a job that is no longer there. She gets a job teaching finances at a local college and realizes that someone is faking and stealing priceless native objects. Recommended to mystery fans.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this when it first came out and I still remember how gripping the story is!

[Pat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Separated woman, Jane, moves to Sitka, Alaska after her son is killed to take a finance job that dissolves.
She stays and finds the town mystery, forged art work.
Good.

[Peggi Warner-Lalonde · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good start, a satisfying mystery, and an interesting look at Alaska.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent mystery story set in Alaska! It really gives you a feeling for life in the harbor towns and the smaller villages.