Yen for Murder - Book Review

Yen for Murder by Jeanne Burrows-Johnson is the fourth installment in the Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mystery series—a mesmerizing blend of mystery, history, and the supernatural. The story once again follows Natalie Seachrist, a former journalist with an extraordinary gift: the ability to experience visions that reveal glimpses of both the past and the future. Set against the vibrant, culturally rich backdrop of Hawaii, the novel masterfully intertwines intriguing clues, local heritage, and Natalie’s unique abilities as she unravels a fresh and compelling mystery. Ideal for readers who crave suspense, cultural depth, and a touch of the paranormal, this book offers an immersive and unforgettable journey.

The novel begins with Natalie experiencing a haunting vision of a woman’s murder in an unfamiliar setting. Is it a chilling premonition of a future tragedy she’s destined to become entangled in, or simply a fleeting, harmless dream born of her imagination? Her boyfriend, Ke'oni—a former homicide detective turned security consultant—offers comfort while probing her about the vision. He knows all too well that her visions often manifest in reality or serve as vital clues in unraveling mysteries.

Shortly after, Natalie and Ke'oni look forward to a peaceful afternoon at a luncheon held in a serene Buddhist temple. Surrounded by the calming presence of the community, their day takes an unexpected and dark turn when a woman’s body is discovered. The victim, Reverend Ayameko Koha Fujimoto, a respected female minister, is found with a single gunshot wound to the head. As if the tragedy isn’t shocking enough, the crime escalates when a rare and valuable Buddha statue is brazenly stolen, adding another layer of mystery to the unfolding events.

As Natalie’s visions unveil cryptic details about the crime, she and Ke'oni are pulled deeper into an investigation that only grows more complex. Their search for answers extends far beyond the islands, unraveling hidden ties to ancient Asian history and priceless stolen art. With each discovery, Natalie’s visions become increasingly vivid and unsettling, leading them to startling revelations while placing them in ever greater danger.

An auction catalog reveals the upcoming sale of Buddha statue strikingly similar to the one that was stolen. Ke’oni’s former partner begins an undercover investigation at the event. A startling connection is uncovered—the Kiyohara family. They are not only involved in the auction but are, in fact, the seller of this particular statue. This raises pressing questions: How did the family acquire the statue? What was its dubious origin? Amid the growing suspicions, the item is ultimately withdrawn from the auction.

Throughout the story, Natalie experiences numerous vivid visions that leave her feeling deeply unsettled. One particularly harrowing vision involves a little girl by a riverbank. In this vision, Natalie helplessly watches as the girl, full of life and innocence, slips into the river's water. Despite Natalie’s desperate urge to act, she is unable to intervene, but is forced to witness the tragic scene unfold. The river pulls the girl under, stealing her life as Natalie feels the weight of her own powerlessness. Visions like this lingers with Natalie, leaving her questioning their meanings and grappling with the emotions they stirs within her.

Curious about the cat gracing the cover? Meet Miss Una, a delightful feline who’s more than just Natalie’s cherished pet—she’s a trusted companion and a wellspring of inspiration. With an uncanny knack for appearing at just the right moment, Miss Una’s inquisitive nature infuses an extra layer of charm into the sleuthing adventures. Whether perched gracefully in her favorite spot or shadowing the action with quiet curiosity, she brings a subtle yet enchanting presence to the story. After all, what’s a good mystery without a cat by your side?

This book is more than a murder mystery—it’s a journey through Hawaii’s vibrant landscapes, a glimpse into its rich history, and an introduction to the Buddhist religion. Drawing from her years of living in Hawaii, the Arizona-based author infuses the story with vivid descriptions of the islands' lush scenery and cultural traditions. Burrows-Johnson not only immerses readers in the beauty of Hawaii but also educates them about its deep heritage, seamlessly blending storytelling with her insight.

Featuring an engaging protagonist, a vivid cultural backdrop, and a close-knit community uniting to solve a gripping case of murder and robbery, this story masterfully blends intrigue, warmth, and discovery. Set within a richly detailed cultural tapestry, the narrative brings to life the traditions, challenges, and triumphs of a community bound by a common purpose. The result is an immersive and heartwarming tale that leaves a lasting impression on readers.