A Death in Eden: A Sean Stranaham Mystery

In McCafferty’s enjoyable if flawed seventh outing for wilderness guide and PI Sean Stranahan (after 2017’s Cold Hearted River), Sean rafts Montana’s scenic Smith River with a TV reporter and two local men, childhood friends turned foes who represent opposing views of a copper mine proposed for the area. Meanwhile, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation agent Harold Little Feather and his 17-year-old son, Marcus, embark on a canoe trip in search of a mysterious man who has left scarecrows and anti-mine messages along the river. What appears a harmless, creative form of protest assumes sinister implications when Harold, Marcus, and the scarecrow-maker cross paths and later confront a murderous duo. McCafferty’s passion for his wilderness setting, knowledge of fishing, and understanding of local issues combine to create a rich sense of place. Unfortunately, an array of both minor and significant continuity errors, from changing ages to inconsistent chronology, mar this entry. Fans will hope for a return to form next time. [em]Agent: Dominick Abel, Dominick Abel Literary. (July) [/em]