The Elixir of Yosemite

by M.C. Behm

Woody Jackson wants to scream, “I saw you. You pushed Aiden off.” But with his fellow free-soloists and would-be-girlfriend clinging to the tabletop apex of Cathedral Peak, he buries the impulse alongside so many other second-guesses. 
What was it that the Stuart had said before shoving most the famous rock climber on the planet to his death? It was some wild rambling about Yosemite and a long sought after achievement. How had he been able to stay hidden? It must have been the cavernous shadows thrown by the full moon against the mountain’s craggy façade. Where would it be safe to tell the other climbers that their friend was not just some dirt bag stone-master, but a mercenary?
Answering these questions leads Woody and a misfit Park Ranger on a 24-hour race up and down the granite walls and deep into the backcountry of America’s first protected land. As they chase the killer, dodging bears, bullets, and a forest fire, Woody and Rick learn that the clock ticking behind the scenes was put in motion 100 years ago by the forefather of environmentalism, John Muir. Racing to stop the carnage disguised as eco-terrorism and trying to save the lives of their friends and colleagues, the unlikely duo unearth a century’s old subterfuge scamming publicly-owned power from the holiest of protected American wonders.

478 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2017

Reviews

[Jacqui Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elixir of Yosemite (Book 1 of the Vertical Murder Series) is a fantastic and worthwhile work of art. This adventure is full of modern mischief, courage, and a cast of interesting characters, set in the heart of Yosemite and the rock climbing community. MC Behm's dynamic plot keeps your curiosity piqued, alongside thought-provoking literary wit and hearty descriptions that will beyond satisfy and bring you towards a greater appreciation of nature.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was fascinating. You could tell the writer had experience with rock climbing. It was quite an adventure. I wanted to read it since it was written by the grandson of Marian Coggen Behm Miller who I knew growing up and who lived just down the street from where I live now. The book was left at my Bed & Breakfast. Who left it wrote in the front of the book the name of the author who chose to write under a pen name. Right away I knew that name. One thing I liked about the book was "short chapters". It went back and forth a lot but not so much that you couldn't keep up with what was going on with whom. Also, their was much truth in it as the author identified in the back of the book notes & bibliography concerning Yosemite and John Muir. There is also a glossary for words unfamiliar to those who don't go rock climbing. I believe it would make a good young adult book since the main character was a teen. But, it was still a high adventure mystery. I've been reading mysteries since my teens. Reading almost every Nancy Drew at that time.

[Julia Russell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the elixir of Yosemite. I loved learning more about Yosemite in a page turning thriller book. The characters were relatable and I was entrenched in the story line. I loved the rustic setting and the climbing spills and thrills.