Started and stopped this book several times. Finally gave up because I couldn't get into it. It's too verbose and the main character keeps on solving mysteries instead of "judging". This is just not my kind of book. DNF. I declare "uncle" on the series. ( )

Up to now, I have only read Maron's series staring Lieutenant Sigrid Harald which features a much grittier atmosphere. While there is sudden violence and a number of murders, the North Carolina setting seems to give an overall atmosphere that is gentler and more romantic.

Judge Knott has just married her life long love Sheriff's Deputy Dwight Bryant and life seems to be going well. Then Dwight receives a call from his 8 year old son that he needs him to show up at his school the next morning which entails a several hour drive. Once there he soon discovers that his ex-wife appears to have abandon his son and he begins a search for her. In a short time he finds her murdered and his son is missing and the hunt is on for the murder and kidnapper. A reasonably complicated plot kept this reader turning pages. ( )

Deborah and the Majorare married, one month, but still a team for solving mysteries. This one involves Major's former wife and son.as well a haunted mansion. ( )

The latest (as of mid-2007) in Margaret Maron's enjoyable Deborah Knotts series.

Now married, Deborah and Dwight face several challenges, including a murder Dwight must investigate in their small North Carolina town. While involved in that investigation, the pair find out that Dwight's ex-wife, Jonna (mother of his young son Cal) has gone missing. Dwight -- and eventually Deborah -- must travel to his ex-wife's hometown to search for Jonna, and soon, Cal as well.

Very enjoyable and suspenseful novel. ( )

Dwight Bryant recieves a call from his 8 year old son Cal and when he traveks ti hus home in Shaysville, Virginia Dwight discovers that Cal's mom is missing. Dwight's new wife Deborah Knott travels up to help when Cal also disappears. Meanwhile Dwights team in North Carolina is investigating the shooting of J.D. Rouse who was hot while driving. A suspensful read that kept me going wanting to know what had happened to Cal. ( )