Windswept

Windswept is the third, captivating entry in A Digger Doyle Mystery by Rosalie Rayburn, intelligently blending mystery, political intrigue, and personal conflict within the backdrop of New Mexico's landscapes. The story unfolds as investigative reporter Digger Doyle deals with the suspicious death of State Representative Carmen Lawlor, who is discovered at the base of a wind turbine—a site symbolic of the environmental battles in the region. Lawlor's tragic past, intertwined with the unresolved case of a missing girl, Julie Mondragon, becomes a haunting motif as Digger investigates the layers of deception surrounding both women. Digger must face her wife’s political ambitions, fears of recurring loss, and a community rife with hidden agendas and rivalries as she digs deeper into the mystery.  

Rosalie Rayburn is a master storyteller with a gift for character. Digger Doyle is depicted as a tenacious journalist haunted by the specter of her parents’ tragic death in a car accident. This loss fuels her instinctual drive for truth and justice, making her flawed and relentless. Maria Ortiz, Digger’s wife and a rising political star, represents an intersection of personal and public life, often leading to tension between them. Their relationship provides an emotional depth to the narrative as Digger's fears for Maria's safety coexist with her admiration for her wife's commitment to public service.  

The contrasting settings—from the bustling streets of Albuquerque to the serene yet ominous landscape of the wind farm—evoke a sense of isolation that mirrors Digger's internal struggles. The conflict arises between the powerful forces of corporate interests in fossil fuels, represented by characters like Danny Murphy, and the environmental advocates who align with Maria and Carmen’s vision for a sustainable New Mexico. Windswept captivates readers with its thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, grief, and the quest for truth amidst political and environmental tumult. Rayburn’s prose elevates the genre, knitting together the threads of mystery and emotion into a compelling narrative that leaves readers questioning the extent to which individuals will go to protect their interests, and at what cost. It is one of the best crime mysteries I have read since the beginning of the year.