Dead Letter (Meddlin' Madeline Mysteries, #4)

by Chautona Havig

[phyllish]

When does the cause justify the means?

As Madeline heads off on her first undercover assignment with the Pinkertons, her disguise is so perfect even Russell doesn't recognize her. Transforming herself into the fashion-challenged and somewhat simple Jane Sempleton, she heads off to solve the mysteries of the world. Or at least the Wintherwood, Ohio bank world.

It was fun reading the details the author included to show the transformation Madeline made to become "Jane". And despite Madeline's great abilities, she was not perfect at it at first. It was especially fun to see how she was able to take a beautiful woman and make her less than attractive using only powder and an overzealous sense of style.

But Madeline wouldn't be Madeline without going through a spiritual crisis in the process. Does the cause justify the means? Is it okay to deceive in the name of right? How does a Christian who seeks to walk in a manner pleasing to the Lord reconcile this? (Hint - I'm not going to tell!)

A whole new town of characters opened up for the reader's pleasure as Madeline used her powers of observation in an attempt to sort out the evil from the good. I enjoyed the story-telling through letters that were employed throughout, though the one she had to burn was heartbreaking.

My favorite part of any book by Chautona Havig is the way her heart for the Lord shines through so clearly, and how she unfolds spiritual truths so clearly. Dead Letter did not disappoint.

The story was filled with intrigue and heartbreak. While the ending made it clear another story is in the works, there was a (mostly - by design) satisfying ending. If you have not read the first three books in the series, I recommend you do read those before this one.

There were a few points that were raised which seemed to still need an explanation. The version of the story I read was not the final one, and so it is entirely possible they were resolved in the version offered here.


Read my full review with a Preview and Guest Post at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.