The Man Who Had 9 Lives; A Murder on Skis Mystery - Book Review

The Man Who Had Nine Lives, by avid skier Phil Bayly, is the fifth and latest in the author's captivating  Murder on Skis series.  Whether a novice skier or enthusiastic ski bum, mystery lover, or history aficionado, the beauty of the setting in the mountains of Colorado will dazzle the reader. The novel's title and cover art will entice bookworms to flip to the back cover quickly. The teaser states that a skier has been extracted from an avalanche, and the rescuers are told that he had died.

In the first chapter, details of the doctor's rescue and the various rescuers' reactions introduce characters who appear later in the novel. Dr. Hunter Anderson survives his ordeal with injuries and an unbelievable death philosophy. The rescuers' dialogues give pertinent information about snow skiing conditions, skiing risks, avalanches, and rescue procedures.  Ski terms will delight skiing enthusiasts and inform armchair adventurers. 

A murder is introduced, but the act and consequences are left hanging.  Is this a red herring?   The novel includes the economic investment and development of a new, fictitious ski resort.  TV reporter JC Snow and his photographer are sent to cover the resort's opening and to discover why this unique resort has been able to overcome the financial challenges of failed start-ups. The area's history is a backdrop for much of the setting, as are the mountains and ski trails. JC, the photographer, and his assistant and romantic interest, Robin, are on hand when mysterious murders occur. 

Dr. Anderson stated that he had used up eight of his nine lives when he was rescued from the avalanche. This way of thinking permeates the minds of others. The snake-headed Hydra had nine heads. Cats are believed to have nine lives. Has Dr. Anderson used up his ninth life? After several more murder victims are found, JC Snow contemplates the connections. At Colorado's newest skiing hotspot, who is the cold-blooded killer?  With all the turns, twists, and dangers of a slalom ski race, the tale comes to an abrupt, unpredictable, but satisfying conclusion. 

Author Phil Bayly has been a snow ski racer most of his adult life. He has a love for the sport and the associated culture. Professionally, he is a retired TV reporter/journalist and news anchor. Bayly adheres to the writer's creed "write what you know" with his newest novel in the series. What will the melting snows uncover next spring?