Murder of a Snake in the Grass
A Scumble River Mystery, No. 4
By Denise Swanson 

      Skye Denison has been back in Scumble River for almost three years now. She left to go to a bigger town and make something of herself, but her plan backfired. After Skye's valedictorian speech, putting down her small hometown and its people, she wasn't sure if she would be accepted back, but she has managed to make up for her thoughtless remarks. Her work in the school as a psychologist has helped many children and, on the side, Skye has also solved many murders, keeping Scumble River safe.

     Now there is another murder and Skye wants to know why. Gabriel Scumble, descendant of the Scumble River's founding father, has come to town to celebrate the town's Bicentennial. Unfortunately, he is found dead with a pickax sticking out of his body. Since Gabriel does not live in Scumble River, Skye is curious why someone would kill a stranger. Perhaps he isn't the perfect stranger that everyone is making him out to be. On the personal side, Skye is perturbed because her former fiancée is back in town, and wants her back. Skye's life is filled to the capacity but somehow, she manages to find time to entertain the reader with her sly wit.

     Murder of a Snake in the Grass is the fourth entry in the Scumble River series. This book is filled with unpredictable, exciting and humorous scenes. I love the dynamic between Skye and her students. Her compassion and willingness to help is what makes her such a three-dimensional character. While reading this book, I recommend that you keep an eye out for Junior Doozier, who will make you laugh and tug at your heart in the same second. Murder of a Snake in the Grass is a winner!