Book Review: Tandem

The novel, Tandem, by Tracey Bateman was nothing like I expected. When I read the synopsis, I was intrigued by the idea of a mystery novel. And, like most murder mysteries, I was hooked from the very first chapter.

Abbey Hills is just a small town in the Ozark country when strange murders begin to take over their peaceful town. Lauryn McBride is trying to get by with money from her family's auctioning company to take care of her father who is declining rapidly due to Alzheimer's. After a wealthy man of the community passes away, Lauryn tries to unravel the secrets of his home as she prepares his rare and valuable antiques for auction.

Amede Dastillion is a woman desperately trying to find her sister when she receives an unexpected package from the deceased man's estate in Abbey Hills. With this as a key to her missing sister, she sets out on a journey that will risk her life. More murders happen as she stays at the only inn in Abbey Hills, and she becomes a prime suspect for the murders.

Amede and Lauryn become wrapped up in the mysterious nature of the murders as Lauryn learns the secrets of some of the dark residents. Both women struggle with the concept of God and sin. Where do you draw the line, and does He even exist? Abbey Hills is no longer safe, but what is Lauryn to do when she has a father to look after?

From the very beginning, Bateman draws in the reader by using a mysterious point of view. The entire novel takes place from the point of view of Lauryn, Amede, and a mysterious woman being tortured by a madman. I have to say, that I did not figure out this who-donnit until the very end. I had my suspicions, some of which turned out to be correct and others that were completely off.

I couldn't put this book down once I started. I was a little disappointed in the ending because it seems like everything just was nicely arranged. Let's just say, I thought it was just too hunky-dory and an unrealistic ending to such a secret being revealed. But, overall, I was pleased with how Bateman portrayed the characters as well as their believability.

I would recommend this book to anyone with a love for mysteries. I was surprised, but I shouldn't have been. I think Bateman gives enough clues to be able to figure it out, if only you pay attention carefully. Good luck figuring it all out and happy reading!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review and received no monetary compensation. I just do this for my own enjoyment. If you feel you might be interested, visit their website, Blogging for Books.