Review of Blood Moon by Sandra Brown
Ah, Blood Moon. This title caught my eye not only for its intriguing premise but also because it came highly recommended on Edelweiss. I wasn’t familiar with Sandra Brown before diving into this novel, but the buzz surrounding her latest release was hard to ignore. Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of suspense and a compelling mystery threaded through the allure of a total lunar eclipse. However, as I read on, I found myself wading through familiar waters, navigating themes and character dynamics that, while engaging, left me wanting.
At the heart of Blood Moon is Beth Collins, a determined and ambitious television producer. Her latest project hinges on the unfolding mystery surrounding a series of murders connected to an ominous Blood Moon. Enter Detective John Bowie, the classic brooding male lead whose intense desire for Beth is apparent from their very first encounter. I couldn’t help but feel a wave of déjà vu, reminiscent of Nora Roberts’ novels, especially in how John’s dominant demeanor towards Beth felt just a tad overdone. The dialogue sometimes struck a comedic note, reminiscent of those B-rated crime movies from the ’90s—think quirky characters that interrupt the tension with oddly timed humor. John’s internal struggle to resist Beth’s allure often had me laughing, though I sensed this tone might have been intentional.
The mystery itself, while captivating in concept, didn’t quite deliver the satisfaction I craved. Brown introduces the idea of sociopathic killers who crave acknowledgment yet orchestrates the unraveling of the plot in a way that left me feeling somewhat disconnected. I wanted to be on the edge of my seat, uncovering clues alongside Beth, but instead, the revelations felt a little lackluster. A quote that particularly resonated with me was, “Isn’t raising questions in our job description?”—this sentiment encapsulated the detectives’ role but fell short in creating a sense of urgency or engagement.
Yet, there were moments I cherished. The chemistry between Beth and John, especially in their investigative bickering, added a spark to the narrative. And let’s not forget Mutt, John’s dog, who undoubtedly stole the show! Their friendship, along with the dynamic between John and his colleague Mitch, provided levity I appreciated.
Despite its flaws, Blood Moon does have a certain charm, particularly for those who enjoy the blend of romance with mystery. The ending surprised me in a way that turned my initial frustration into a more hopeful appreciation of the journey. It’s clear Brown has a fanbase that appreciates her distinct style, and while this particular read might not fully resonate with me, I can see why many are enchanted by her storytelling.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of romantic thrillers with strong, dominant male leads and appreciate a glint of nostalgia reminiscent of ’90s crime dramas, then Blood Moon might just be your next read. While it didn’t hit all the marks for me, it certainly sparked discussions about storytelling in contemporary mysteries and left me reflecting on what draws us into the pages of a novel. Sometimes, it’s not just about the destination but the winding journey of discovery along the way.