The Track of the Cat

Anna Pigeon Mystery: 1

ISBN: 0-7887-1778-2 Order from: Recorded Books

An entertaining mystery set in the beautiful and harsh high desert, this first novel in the popular Anna Pigeon series features a likable protagonist, involving plot and engrossing setting.

Reviewed by David on March 17, 2002

Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural)

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Blood Lure.

Anna Pigeon is a law enforcement ranger in the National Park Service. Her job fits her well, providing frequent isolation from the crowds and allowing her to savor nature. A sudden death of a fellow ranger, apparently killed by a rare mountain lion, starts Anna investigating the circumstances. Despite the complacency of her superiors, Anna finds a number of suspicious discrepancies, which eventually lead her to both the truth and deadly danger.

Full Review: This first Anna Pigeon novel shows the strengths that made the series so popular. First, there is the main character—intelligent, flawed, somewhat misanthropic and quietly passionate about nature. Second is the well-described and fascinating nature of the national park settings, harsh and beautiful. And finally, perhaps less well portrayed, are the realistic, although not altogether sympathetic surrounding characters.

The investigation is well-paced, with clues and suspicions revealed to keep suspence without frustration. The resolution is suitably tense and dangerous, with fear, anger and courage.

This is a strong, entertaining book in an enjoyable series, recommended both for its mystery and its description of the American Southwest.

Overall: 6; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 5.5;

ISBN: 0-7887-1778-2 Order from: Recorded Books