Michael Gruber’s second book in his Jimmy Paz trilogy contains one of the most harrowing journals I’ve ever read. A woman named Emmylou Dideroff is accused of murder, but Detective Jimmy Paz thinks something is wrong with her story. Emmylou asks to write her confession and she fills three notebooks with her incredible story of sexual abuse, survivalist plots, and African politics. The novel ends with an explosive ending that left me drained. Valley of Bones reminds me of a roller-coaster ride with its change of pace from slow to fast, from up to down. GRADE: A-
I totally agree with you on this one, George. Emmylou’s narration of the “African” story is incredible and harrowing. I’ve always liked books that use journals, letters and the like in telling a story and this is one of the best.
Another one I’d recommend is by Ruth Rendell, Anna’s Book as by Barbara Vine.
You’re right about ANNA’S BOOK, Jeff. Emmylou’s narration made my hair stand on end! VALLEY OF BONES is a terrific novel!