Johanna Hudson is used to researching clients’ family trees—not tracing live relatives. But she also knows how loss can fuel a longing for one’s roots. So she hopes her fledgling genealogy company can help troubled Eloise Manley find the father she never knew. Ellie’s world was shattered when her mother went to prison for killing her abusive stepfather. And her father’s offer of a large inheritance will help Ellie find her lost daughter, Ruby, and finally make a better life for them both.
But it isn’t long before someone starts threatening Johanna, and then Ellie is stabbed to death. To find Ruby, Johanna must go up against powerful heirs and rattle any number of gilded cages to reveal one family’s twisted truth—and flush out a vindictive murderer…
Johanna Hudson is a genealogist who researches family trees and helps people find their ancestors. What a love Johanna has for her job. She goes through some hazardous situations of discovery of her clients at times, but she loves her career, and by reading the story, you get the sense that it is accurate and not fiction. This is a different kind of mystery and is very well crafted. R. Franklin James has a gift for writing. The plot is very unique. Well done, Mrs. R. Franklin James. I can't wait to read more of your catalog.
This was the first book I read by RF James. I am a fan. So far this is my favorite book of 2021. The writing was clear and concise. The characters were relatable and unique. Her premise of a genealogist should make for an interesting series. The ending was a surprise, her conclusion satisfying. I will be checking out some of her prior books. This is a strong recommendation. Enjoy.
Interesting story concept but disconnected. There are unknown characters and without reason they are found out and named but you don't know how or why. Time line seems off. Takes place in current Era probably 2020- 2021 time frame but main character spends hours or days doing research or tasks that a simple Google search, phone call or excel spreadsheet could occomplish.
In a day that too much deceit and greed have encompassed our lives, there were parts of the book that was simply frustrating. The story was good. The crime modern day America. It came to a good conclusion. The book is written very well but I breathed a sigh of relief when it ended.