Murder Under Redwood Moon

Murder Under Redwood Moon by Sherri L. Dodd delivers a captivating blend of supernatural mystery and psychological thriller set amidst the majestic redwoods of California. At eight, Arista Kelly’s parents bring her to a small, isolated town in California redwoods, and disappear right after that. She grows under the care of her great-aunt Bethie, developing a deep connection with herbs, nature, and crystals. At twenty-one, her serene life is disrupted when the body of a girl she has known is discovered in the river. She is disturbed by the strange visions featuring a tattoo and the ghostly activities in her home. When more bodies start showing up, she knows it is the work of a serial killer and something more. She must confront her fears and unravel the mystery that surrounds her. Can she stop the killer before it is her turn?  

Sherri L. Dodd’s novel features a chilling atmosphere, and the suspense is infused into the writing through the paranormal, somewhat magical experiences of Arista. You have the feeling that something awful might happen at any moment, and indeed, something horrible does happen. This ingenious use of premonition permeates the narrative and elevates the entertainment potential of this book. The characters are richly drawn, from Ian’s protective desperation to Arista’s intuitive magickal abilities. Keira, Ian’s wife, is a mother torn between love and fear for her daughter’s safety. The mysterious Fergus reveals the peril of resurrected dark arts, contrasting sharply with Aunt Bethie, a wise elder wielding ancient relics and Ouija boards to uncover truths. The setting—a quaint mountain town nestled among towering redwoods—provides an atmospheric backdrop that captures the serenity of nature, which contrasts with the disruptive forces of evil about to tear the city. Murder Under Redwood Moon opens with an intriguing premise and offers pacing that is measured. Sparkling dialogues and terrific descriptions punctuate the exquisite writing. This tale of murder and magic captivates with its atmospheric writing, the finely drawn setting, and the unforgettable characters. I look forward to reading the second book in this trilogy.