The Devil's Hearth

Rating:
Summary: Multi-layered brilliance
Review: DePoy has become my favorite author with his two books in this series. I know a bit about folklore and the people of the mountains and they are portrayed accurately and with great compassion here. The mystery is a real one, the characters alive and complete, and the insight into a hidden world -- the world of shape note music, Melungeons, hidden travelers, and front porch conversations -- make this book a warm, inviting place to be. I can't wait for the next one.

Rating:
Summary: Chirping crickets and a body on the porch
Review: Rich characters and setting are enriched by, well... rich writing and imagery, which only occasionally becomes a bit too flowery and overly descriptive. I enjoyed being dropped into an area of this country not done to death in other stories; the Georgia Appalachian region is a very interesting place. The mystery story itself is pretty good; like a lot of good mysteries, the story effectively ties the mystery story into the history and dark secrets of the story's setting. The diverse characters and the colorful banter between them are also very enjoyable.

Rating:
Summary: A Most Tedious Tale
Review: This story offers many challenges to those who would read it. The opening pages are turgid with inconsequential prose. You may enjoy it if you can get past the first 50 pages. I didn't, for lack of energy.