Customer Reviews

Mania

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In Mania, Wentworth M. Johnson continues the story of Bill Reyner, to whom readers were first introduced in Fiend's Gold, chronicling his investigation of a murder that has gone unsolved for twenty years, prompted by the discovery of a human skull in the woods near his house. What ensues is a suspenseful mystery, which Reyner amusingly touts the "Heads Up Mystery," delivered to readers by master of the genre, Wentworth M. Johnson, whose prowess for mystery writing has consistently enthralled and captivated readers.

Gran and readers' favorite detective in training, Bill, becomes intrigued by the news story about the unearthed skull, identified by dental records as belonging to Mary Bean, a fifteen year old girl who disappeared on her way home from church, and decide to do some investigation of their own. Although a 20 year-old case is often hopeless, the duo is fresh off their success in solving a 200 year-old case in Fiend's Gold, encouraging them to tackle a seemingly impossible case. As they search through the insurmountable amount of research at the library and interviewing the people of the community, Reyner and Gran make acquaintances and friends along the way, most notably that of North East, known to everyone as Newf, a young man with a speech pattern that is "unusual" and "at times difficult to understand," who offers his help.

As Bill investigates, the name TOD keeps appearing, making him curious as to what exactly the TOD is. Newf informs him that it stands for Temple of Dominance, a cult-like church that reads from the "Book of Mania," has vestal virgins, high drama, and bizarrely ritualistic order. As Bill infiltrates their ranks and learns more disturbing secrets about the TOD, readers are left breathless as suspense and tensions mount. Mania leaves readers eager for the next installment in the Bill Reyner mystery adventure series, Edinburgh Cuckoos.

Another fabulous episode in the life of Bill Reyner. This is the second book in the series. I love these well-written adventure-mysteries. The language used is clean and perfect for young adults and those with a mind to solve a mystery and to enjoy some action-adventure with the well-formed principal character, Bill Reyner. The suspense is sufficient to keep the reader's mind activated and constantly looking for clues. A great read for all ages. I can't wait for the next one!