No Rest for the Wicked: A John and Sarah Jarad Nantucket Mystery

The uneven third book in Reed’s John and Sarah Jarad Nantucket series (after The Nature of the Grave) delves further into Sarah’s background. Det. John Jarad, recently demoted, is called to a Nantucket Island dump, where two archeologists have uncovered a 1920s steamer trunk that may contain evidence about a notorious cold case—the Baby Alice Spenser kidnapping. Meanwhile, John’s pregnant wife, Sarah, realizes with horror that a painting of hers was entered into a local competition without her knowledge, has won, and is being promoted with her full name online. Sarah worries that it may bring her abusive ex-fiancé Mason right to their doorstep. John must defer to new Deputy Police Chief Anetta Nunn, who is skilled but not a Nantucket native, during the high-profile investigation while also making sure his family is safe from Mason. Reed’s writing is smooth and the story lines are easy to follow, but the setup isn’t as fleshed out as it could be; the ending feels rushed and plot points are left unresolved. There are suspenseful moments and ample twists and turns, yet none are especially thrilling. (BookLife)