Beware the blackbirds…
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room—and she knows just the place: Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library.
There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for—and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune—if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place—and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend.
Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
Why Should You Read This?
“Home at Night” by Paula Munier is a riveting mystery novel that masterfully blends elements of Halloween, haunted legends, hidden treasures, and danger. Set in the enchanting Vermont countryside, the story follows Mercy Carr, who finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and deceit as she ventures into Grackle Tree Farm, an alluring yet sinister place.
The book opens on a spooky note, with winter creeping in and the allure of Halloween festivities in the air. Mercy Carr, her two dogs, and a cat are crammed into her small cabin, leaving her yearning for more space. Her wish comes true when she discovers Grackle Tree Farm, a vast estate with a mysterious history and a haunted reputation. Despite its dark past, Mercy is irresistibly drawn to the place, even when her dog Elvis discovers a lifeless body in the library.
What follows is a roller-coaster of events that involve hidden treasure, cryptic codes, and murder. As the story unfolds, Munier weaves a complex plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The discovery of a coded letter on the victim opens up the possibility of a fortune buried somewhere on the property, adding an element of thrilling treasure hunting to the narrative.
Mercy’s partnership with Captain Thrasher is central to the investigation, and their chemistry adds depth to the story. However, their hunt for the treasure takes a dangerous turn when they encounter a masked assailant, leading to a life-threatening confrontation. The subsequent events leave Mercy and her loyal dog Elvis injured, Captain Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, and the pursuit of justice becomes a race against time.
The strength of “Home at Night” lies in Munier’s skillful storytelling. She expertly balances moments of tension, emotional depth, and surprising twists, making it a gripping page-turner. Her vivid descriptions of the Vermont setting, especially during Halloween, bring the story to life and immerse readers in the haunting atmosphere of Grackle Tree Farm.
Mercy Carr is a compelling protagonist. Her determination to uncover the truth, coupled with her compassion for animals and loyalty to her friends, makes her a relatable and admirable character. The supporting cast, including her partner Troy and the dogs, contribute to the heartwarming and engaging dynamics throughout the story.
The novel also delves into the theme of greed, as the pursuit of the hidden treasure brings out the worst in people, leading some to commit heinous acts. This exploration of human nature adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers questioning the motives of every character involved.
Although the book excels in storytelling and character development, at times, the pacing may seem slightly uneven. Some sections of the story move at a rapid pace, while others are more reflective, which might not suit all readers’ tastes.
In conclusion, “Home at Night” by Paula Munier is a thrilling mystery that seamlessly combines the allure of Halloween, the chill of haunted legends, and the excitement of treasure hunting. With its well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and atmospheric setting, the book is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts. Paula Munier has once again proven herself as a talented storyteller, and readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages until the satisfying and unexpected conclusion.