Robin Hardy Reviews

Page Seven

Added May 25, 2009

Unknown Name Unknown Number

A Wimsey Reader Mystery

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: Available Now
Genre: Fiction/Christian/Contemporary/Mystery
Format: Trade paper
Price: $15.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-9347-7602-5
Author Email/Website: www.robinhardy.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Unknown Name, Unknown Number sets up a solid connection with readers. Author Robin Hardy dials into a new genre with this cozy mystery, the first in the Wimsey Reade series. A clever combination of story and suspense moves this novel along, scattering clues and keeping both the characters and readers busy trying to figure out the murderer's identity.

Wimsey Reade, recently divorced from a high-powered CEO, moves to a retirement village for some peace and quiet. But when one of the first people she meets is murdered, Wimsey uses both her people and her peeking skills to catch the killer. Events soon escalate to a showdown, but is a slightly senior woman able to slow down a murderer with a message?

As a fan of both Robin Hardy and cozy mysteries, I enjoyed every moment of this book. Wimsey Reade is a character I want to see again. Wimsey's cleverness and confidence wrap this story up like a gift, with each page revealing a little more of her personality and abilities. The setting in the retirement community introduced a variety of characters that ranged from sociable to slightly strange, but I would like to ring all of their doorbells to get a chance to know them better.

The suspense and mystery elements were well done, with a dramatic and unexpected ending. In fact, the conclusion even shocked Wimsey and made her wonder a little more about the unseen spiritual forces that are present in this world. It's safe to assume that the Old England Retirement Village on Lake LBJ in Texas' beautiful Hill Country will never be the same, now that Wimsey Reade is a resident. And as a reader, I can't wait to see what will happen next.

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Added November 17, 2008

Games of God and Men

The Latter Annals of Lystra

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: Available now
Genre: Fiction/Christian/Historical/Fantasy
Format: Trade paper
Price: $15.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-9347-7601-8
Author Email/Website: http://www.robinhardy.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Games of God and Men play for keeps! As readers return to the palace at Westford in the sixth book of this series, they immediately sense an undercurrent of political intrigue. A mysterious court jester has taken residence in the great halls, but his tricks may offer more duplicity than delight. When the Surchataine Nicole's position is threatened, she enters this contest determined to win. A battle of wills and wiles ensue, with the final result hinging on one perfect ruse.

Fans of this series will comfortably take their seats at the grand table next to Surchatain Ares, Nicole, Renée, and the rest of these beloved friends in Lystra. Robin Hardy seamlessly joins each book, making it seem that only moments have passed since last visiting this realm. New readers may enter the gates of Westford at any time however, because each novel can stand on its own.

The addition of the court jester lends a lively air to the dinner proceedings, but his falseness leaves a bad taste. His appearance in Westford is as interesting as his eventual disappearance, which will satisfy readers' curiosity and compassion. On a parallel plot line, as Henry matures into a man of moral convictions, a single act of loyalty changes the course of his life. Although his fate and his future will be determined in the next book, his actions intersect and dramatically affect the political stalemate. Sighs and gasps will escape readers' lips, as a genuine emotional attachment to these characters develops and draws them close.

Underpinning the plot is Robin Hardy's gentle portrayal of Christian values and beliefs. Important decisions made by key characters highlight the power of truth and mercy to pave the right path. The Games of God and Men is about winning within the rules, and ruling the heart within.

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