Last Scene Alive

After thirty-one years of being single, practically a spinster to the townsfolk of Laurenceton, Georgia, Aurora "Roe" Teagarden is finally getting married. Her fiance is Martin Bartell, a newcomer to the area, who works for the town's most powerful and largest employer. Although not much is known about Martin's, Roe refuses to worry about any secrets he may be hiding. She loves the man too much and rejects family, friends, and the minister's request to pry into Martin's past. Friends of Martin, the Youngbloods, arrive and take residence in the new garage apartment. Soon their actions make Roe wonder about their true agenda as they scrutinize her every move and act more like wardens then tenants. Martin's explanation about his relationship with the Youngbloods fail to reassure Roe. Instead, she begins to question what kind of man has she fallen in love with. The answer may cost Roe more than just her heart, it may cost her her life. Although the first half of this novel seems more like a romantic relationship drama than a mystery, it includes gothic overtones that set the stage for a brilliant switch into a more traditional mystery. Roe is a delightful character, who will capture reader sympathy even as they pray that Martin does not turn out to be a sinister being. Part love story, part cozy, and part psychological suspense, The Julius House is a treasure to slowly savor for its crossover appeal to more mainstream readers.Harris, Charlaine is the author of 'Last Scene Alive', published 2006 under ISBN 9780778323648 and ISBN 0778323641.