Format: Kindle Edition
This book is very well written. I couldn't put it down until I'd read the last page. Ms. Adair has a marvelous gift for words and uses descriptive language that paints vivid pictures. She developed the characters in such a way that I felt I knew them, shared their happiness and their sorrow. The book showed in a very real way the life of old-time cowboys, the hard work, the meager pay, the sometimes difficult living conditions. The easy banter and good-natured teasing between friends and brothers made me laugh. It was just a very enjoyable book, and I recommend it. I'm hoping for a sequel!
By Rcbrown on April 30, 2015
Format: Paperback
This is a real love story that could take place in any time or place. I could really relate with the characters and when I was not reading it, I found myself thinking about Heck and Ruth and wondering what direction their lives together would go. Liz's discriptive writing style takes you deep into the old West and you can almost smell the branding irons and working cowboys. She describes the sights and sounds of the ranch. I felt very deeply the loss and love that the characters experienced. I would highly reccommend this book and I'm anxious to read what happens to Ruth next.
By Owen B Walker on May 7, 2015
Format: Paperback
Heck Benham might be one of my grandfathers brothers,all cowboys from the same time period and the same part of the southwest. I love the way Liz Adair looks into the core of her characters and allows you to see the unspoken feelings of both the male and female members of the cast. I am a very emotional man and was raised with the same moral code that Heck was raised to follow. "Doing the right thing" is always the overriding motive and guiding light, and also the thing that can cause the most grief and pain, and I guess guilt. Counting the Cost was very good, but somehow unsatisfying. I feel in spite of the tragedy this story comes to the proper conclusion and left me satisfied, and reexamining my own relationships. I will be a better communicator!
Reviews of Trouble at the Red Pueblo:
From Meridian Magazine:
Liz Adair's new Spider Latham Mystery, Trouble at the Red Pueblo, captures the mystery and splendor of the red rock country
and modern spirit of the west. In a style similar to that of Tony Hillerman and
Clair Poulson, she mixes a solid mystery with a modern western....
Adair does a great job of bringing this setting alive as part
of the story, making visualizing the magnificent scenery easy yet a natural
part of the story....
The plot moves at a deceptively relaxed pace, drawing the
reader in with interesting tidbits and wonderful dialog, until the reader is
surprised to discover how quickly the action is moving....
Check out the whole review at Meridian Magazine.
Multiple-award-winning author Carla Kelly says:
My favorite escape reading is crime fiction. I like the tough stories (Robert Crais, Michael Connelly, Craig Johnson), but I have a growing affinity for the cozy-but-edgy mystery (Ruth Downie, the excellent Steve Havill). Joining that latter group is Spider Latham, Liz Adair's hard-working, honest Nevada deputy sheriff. Spider stumbled into lawmaking because the mines closed in his small Nevada town and he was unemployed. Reluctant he may be, but Spider has a flair for crime-solving. Spider and his wife Laurie do things their way, the kind and honorable way. Liz knows what to do with characters because she writes tight and she understands human nature. "Trouble at the Red Pueblo" takes the reader to the Kanab/Fredonia area of Utah and Arizona, as Spider attempts to help a museum in trouble with an opportunistic lowlife who has a greed for land - someone else's. Spider's help comes from characters that we hope show up in additional novels, particularly Karam Mansour, a Palestinian who teaches American History. Events are in no particular hurry in Spider Latham's world, but I doubt you'll care, as you sink into a place of red earth, kind people, and justice that triumphs. I'm hooked on Spider Latham. Write faster, Liz Adair, ok?
This review is posted on Amazon
Award-winning author Tanya Parker Mills says:
This is a lovely cozy mystery, southwest style. If any of you are already a fan of Adair's "Spider Latham" mysteries, you're going to welcome his return, except now he's in Southern Utah and northern Arizona. And not only does he have several mysteries to solve (all in the attempt to get to the bottom of his assignment), but things are a little rocky with his wife. The author shines with her usual flair for description and interesting characters. There's a particular nice touch with a Palestinian supporting character. I can't help but feel he may play a part in future mysteries. At least, I hope so.
This review is posted on Amazon
Reader Linda says:
I can hardly wait for each new adventure Spider goes on & his careful dissection of circumstances as the mystery he is solving unravels.
At the beginning of chapter one when Spider & his wife spot the unique orange Yugo with flames on the front end, you know the Tremain's are once again in need of Spider's well honed abilities!
Liz has written another great mystery, showing a side or two of Spider's personality we haven't seen. I loved the way she introduces Karam into the story, very typical and believable in tourist friendly Kanab!
I hope Liz has more stories to tell because every one I read leaves me wanting more!
This review is posted on Amazon
Reader Monique Luetkemeyer says:
Liz Adair is back with a new Spider Latham book! This one is set in Kanab, UT. As always Liz uses her expert skills to weave historically accurate details and local folklore together to create the Southwest charm that makes you feel as if you're riding in the truck next to Spider. I've never been disappointed with a Liz Adair story and this one does not disappoint. I highly recommend it.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Bonnie Harris says:
This was a great mystery. I enjoyed the laid back yet serious attitude of Spider and the trouble he found himself in. It was interesting to see how he worked his way through different situations. And you can't beat the beautiful setting. It made it fun to know exactly where Spider and Laurie were tromping. I would recommend this book to any mystery lover.
Reader Nayna Christensen says:
Red Pueblo is a great read, that is set in the beautiful red rock country of Southern Utah. As a quilter, I was thrilled that the "prized quilt" saves the day. I am a fan of Liz Adair and love all of her Spider Latham books. I am excited to welcome Spider back.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Susan Dayley says:
Liz Adair revisits the detective skills and noble character of Spider Latham in her latest book, Trouble at the Red Pueblo. When he’s called in to help solve the reason behind the threats against the owners of a museum in Kanab, Utah, Spider soon realizes the plot is more sinister and involved that anticipated. It is not a good time to be a single woman with connections to large land holdings. Aside from the fact that I found it hard to believe how often people gave things to Spider (seriously, just gave him expensive, if sometimes ugly, items), the story snared me into the lives of the people with their troubles and heartaches. Spider’s new friend, Karam, is delightful. I especially appreciated how much Spider loves his wife, Laurie. All in all, a great book. For those who are not already Spider fans, this story is sure to convert you.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Rachel Anderson says:
This is my first reading of a Spider Latham Mystery and I am hooked. I will be reading the rest of the series while anxiously awaiting the next. Liz writes such beautiful descriptions I feel I am right beside Spider as he tackles his demons. Lovely writing.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Braden Bell says:
I really enjoyed this book! I found Spider to be both believable and likable. He jumped off the page for me. There were parts of the book that made me laugh out loud. Liz writes with warmth and wit. I am going to be downloading the rest of the Spider Latham books tonight! I'm excited to have a new series to read.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer J. Adams says:
I have always been a fan of Liz Adair's stories, but I never read one of her Spider Latham Mysteries until now. I was still able to get into the story despite not reading the others. Trouble at the Red Pueblo - A Spider Latham Mystery Book 4 is a fun -and at times intense- cozy read set in Southern Utah. Spider is kept busy solving cases and working on his home life. I don't want to give anything away, but there is plenty going on to keep you glued to the story. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
This review is posted on Amazon and on Jewel's World
Keralee says:
When I got started reading the Spider Latham books I absolutely fell in love with the Spider stories. I read all of the first three hardly putting the books down. Then I became a beta reader for book #4, "Trouble at Red Pueblo". Wow, I was amazed to find it better than even the first three. I loved the way the different story lines were inter woven and then brought together in the end. I really like the continuing love story between Spider and Laurie and how their marriage continues to grow.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen says:
This book is a fun read with an intriguing mystery, but it also has one of my favorite elements--a husband & wife duo who love each other, are concerned about each other, and work well together.
This review is posted on Amazon
T. Deighton says:
Trouble at Red Pueblo continues in true Spider Latham style. Spider takes wife Laurie along to Kanab, Utah to get to the bottom of the financial problems of the Red Pueblo Museum. Law suits are threatening the future of the museum, and former employer, Brick Tremain, has asked Spider to find out who is behind the trouble. Of course, someone ends up dead, and Spider must solve the murder, too. Along the way, Spider is forced to reexamine the things he loves most, his wife, his home, and his job. Be warned, just when you settle into the story, something will happen to shake things up. Adair knows how to keep the pages turning and your mind working. Aside from figuring out whodunnit, you'll find yourself pondering interpersonal communication, racial profiling, family responsibilities, and, possibly, vacationing in Southern Utah.
This review is posted on Amazon
Writer Julie Coulter Bellon says:
The Trouble at Red Pueblo has all the things that set Liz Adair's books apart---great setting, memorable characters and a twisty mystery that will keep you turning pages to see how it all turns out. Trouble at Red Pueblo is set near the Utah/Arizona border with the beautiful red rocks and exquisite mesas. . . . The thing that makes this book stand out, however, is definitely the setting. So well-described, it's as if you are there. And the twists this book takes bumped it up from an afternoon read to an every=second-I-get-I'm-trying-to-finish this read.
So, if you're looking for a fun mystery that will keep you guessing,Trouble at the Red Pueblo is the book for you!
Read Julie's whole review posted on Julie's Blog
COLD RIVER
Nancy says: "You will warm to the many-faceted characters in this story and be surprised when the end comes, believe me! This is a definite “read by the fire” kind of tale for a snowy day and night. Enjoy!"
Read Nancy's full review at:
http://cherylsbooknook.blogspot.com/2011/12/cold-river-this-is-definite-read-by.html
Margot Hovley says: :...I really liked this book. The writing is skillful. I admit, I’m a grammar snob, and adverbs and point-of-view shifts get my knickers in a bunch. None of that stuff here. I was left to enjoy the unfolding of the story without such distractions."
Read Margot's whole review at: http://www.margothovley.com/2011/12/10/cold-river-book-review/
Read Susan's full review at:
http://susandayley.wordpress.com/2011/12/09/cold-river/
Alisha says: "Liz does a great job of describing this small town in the heart of my homeland (I've lived in the Pacific Northwest my whole life). While I've never been to the particular area described in the book, it feels like dozens of tiny towns we've driven through."
Read Alisha's full review at:
http://coopedup.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-review-cold-river.html
Wendy says: "... Mandy is a very strong character who is complex and riveting as her situation unfolds. The plot is solid, keeping this reader up late turning the pages as the antics of the small town unfold with that creepy feeling lurking in the corner. Liz Adair writes a superb suspense and I can't wait to read more from this very talented author!"
Read Wendy's whole review at:
http://mindingspot.blogspot.com/2011/12/cold-river-by-liz-adair-tour.html
Lynnea says: "I liked this book. Mandy gets a job for a SMALL school district and thinks that everything is going to be great. She has her degree, she worked for a large school district in New Mexico so she knows what she's doing. Right? I loved how not everything works out perfect"
Read Lynnea's whole review at:
http://lalasbooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/cold-river-by-liz-adair.html
Rebecca says: "Once I picked this book up, I just didn't want to put it down. I finished this 324 page book in about 3 days. That is amazing considering I have an almost 2 year old that runs around like a crazy mad woman! This is one of those books where you grab your soft blanket, cup of coffee or warm tea, and just read by the fireplace on a cold evening. This book will keep you guessing!"
Read Rebecca's entire review at: http://ifonlylifecouldbethatsimple.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-review-cold-river-by-liz-adair.html
Eva says: "If you like a good story that will keep you guessing with a bit of romance and mystery thrown in, you are sure to enjoy this book." Read Eva's full review at: http://vampirekiss1967.blogspot.com/2011/12/review-of-cold-river.html
http://imsofunny.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-review-cold-river.html
Queen Autumn says: "Attention grabber for sure! There's no way you're putting this book down unless you're dead tired. At least that's what happened to me. If you like a great mystery novel, like me, you'll want to read this fantastic novel. And not only is a mystery, there's a 'lil bit of romance too, which is always great!"
Read Autumn's whole review at:
Danica Page says: "This book was a cute read that had me laughing out loud in various points. I liked Mandy from the very beginning. She was a character that I could relate to from page one. I liked that the romance and mystery were slowly built up until the finale of the novel."
Read Danica's whole review at: http://danicapage.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-review-cold-river-by-liz-adair.html
Laurie Lewis says: "Award-winning author, Liz Adair, delivers a crisp, delicious read with her recently released romantic suspense novel, Cold River. Once again, Adair draws from locales and events dear to her heart—this time it’s the northwest timber country—to create intricate, realistic settings and characters with an endearing quirkiness."
Read Laurie's whole review at: http://laurielclewis.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-nook-review_03.html
Jenny Moore says, "Oh honey, if there's one thing I love, it's a good romantic suspense. I love the wondering--will they? Won't they? Come on! Can't you see that he's perfect for you? Lives in peril, Prince Charming coming to her rescue, the smoldering glances, trembling kisses, That sort of thing.... Liz Adair nailed it."
Read Jenny's whole review at: http://shesgotthewritestuff.blogspot.com/2011/12/cold-river.html
Julie Coulter Bellon says: "The thing I liked best about this story is that it was such a slow burn with the mystery and the romance. It all starts out so innocently, but the warmer we get to figuring things out, the hotter the plot seems to burn." Read her whole review at: http://www.ldswritermom.blogspot.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-book-reviews-cold-river.html
Holly says: "Cold River was an entertaining read, but something was just missing for me and I had a hard time taking the premise seriously. I liked it, I didn't love it. There are some great, quirky characters, but I would have liked to see more depth and back story." Read Holly's complete review at: http://2kidsandtiredbooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/cold-riverreview.html
From Amazon.com:
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read, October 24, 2011
By Debbie - See all my reviewsThis review is from: Cold River (Paperback)
This book draws you in right from the first page. The setting is the Pacific Northwest and is described vividly in all its dripping wet, beautiful, verdant glory. The characters are believable and expertly presented, and the plot is well conceived and fast-paced. I couldn't put the book down, and still have images of this eclectic community dancing in my head. Highly recommended.
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4.0 out of 5 stars Strong Writing, Quirky Characters, October 16, 2011
By Wendy A. Jones - See all my reviewsThis review is from: Cold River (Paperback)
The back cover copy reads: Mandy Steenburg thinks her doctorate in education has prepared her to run any school district--until she tangles with the moonshine-making, coon-dog-owning denizens of a tiny district in Pacific Northwest timber country. She's determined to make a difference, but the local populace still looks to the former superintendent for leadership. When Mandy lands in the middle of an old feud and someone keeps trying to kill her, instinct tells her to run. And though she has to literally swim through perilous waters, she finds a reason to stay and chance the odds.
I bought this book and read for an hour one afternoon while my daughters were at piano lessons. When I got home, I couldn't find the book anywhere. It was incredibly annoying. I looked in all the usual places, but it did not reveal itself. I read two other books over the next few days, but in the back of my mind I was gnashing my teeth. "What happens to Mandy? Does she fall in love with Vince? Does Grange get over his grudge?"
I found it that weekend (on the bookshelf, of all places!) and happily plowed through the rest of the book to reach the satisfying conclusion. And then I had to go back and read it slower so I could savor the good parts.
Adair has drawn a large cast of likable, quirky characters. She captured the feel of the Pacific Northwest perfectly (I should know--I live here. So does she!) and kept the mystery going right up until the end.
Cold River is a great read, with wonderful characters and several unique twists (steel drums, for one) in the plot. I enjoyed it very much.
From Deseretbook.com:
Rating: 5 stars
A Clever and Charming Romantic Suspense , November 14, 2011
By Laurie, MD
When life in Albuquerque becomes complicated, twenty-nine year-old Dr. Mandy Steenburg finds escape in her newly earned doctoral degree. Two remote school districts need a new superintendent badly enough to take a chance on this enthusiastic newbie—one is in Alaska, the other is Limestone, Washington. So, Mandy packs up her life and ships it north.
Tossing her doctoral degree on the back seat, she exits the big city in her sassy Miata bound for Washington State and a small town of residents descended from North Carolina depression-era settlers. The only thing smaller than Limestone is the residents’ gene pool. The climate change was expected, but the chilly reception Mandy receives from this community makes it clear she’s unwelcome as the replacement for Grange Timberlane, her beloved, but facially-afflicted predecessor, who is now her frustrated assistant.
Welcome or not, Mandy is determined to make a difference in this seemingly undisciplined school system despite the tangled web of feuding families, suspicions, and secrets. Headway is slow, and friends are hard to come by — that is except for Fran, the manager of the Qwik-E-Market, and her wickedly handsome boss, Vince Lafitte, who just happens to also be the head of the local school board. Tangled as five coon dogs in a fox hole, right? Well, hold on.
Vince and Grange share unpleasant history as well, and the more Mandy comes to care about each of these two men, the more accidents and near-death experiences she seems to have. Toss in some moonshine, some magnificent Bluegrass music, and the unexpected arrival of Mandy’s teenaged sister, and Adair has concocted an intriguing romantic suspense that will leave you smiling, snarling, and page turning until the satisfying end.
It’s no surprise that Adair was the 2009 recipient of the Whitney Award for Romance. She is a master storyteller who does her research, creating books that breathe with realism. Adair spreads enough guilt and motive around to keep the reader nail-biting and guessing about the conclusion until the end, while injecting the read with delicious moments of humor.
Walnut Springs is the fortunate publisher of this charmer. I highly recommend Cold River for readers who love a good suspense novel, a tangled romance, or both.
