cover image In the Cradle Lies

In the Cradle Lies

Olivia Newport. Shiloh Run, $12.99 trade paper (256p) ISBN 978-1-68322-995-7

In the alluring second installment to the Tree of Life Series (after The Inn at Hidden Run), Newport returns to Canyon Mines, and Nolan and Jillian Duffy, who work together to uncover the secrets of a wealthy skier. Nolan combines his abilities as a lawyer and mediator with Jillian’s genealogy tracking skills to determine what is driving Tucker Kintzler, a mysterious millionaire who befriends them, and has made himself known about town by spending his money and boasting that he intends to ski the dangerous “Hidden Run.” As the remarkably nosy and inquisitive duo begin sleuthing to uncover what tight-lipped Tucker might be hiding—he is the son of a well-to-do St. Louis family—an unexpected visitor reveals details that pose more questions than answers. Interspersed are scenes from the mid-20th-century Missouri of Tucker’s grandfather, Grandpa Matt. His favorite Bible verse was “The truth will make you free,” but the investigation begins to reveal Grandpa Matt to have been hiding more than his quote suggests. After Tucker opens a long-sealed envelope and learns of his family’s dark business practices, he must decide whether he has the courage to admit the truth his beloved grandfather spent a lifetime hiding. While faith elements are light, Newport’s enjoyable slalom will appeal to fans of Susan May Warren. (Nov.)