Julie's Journal : Unspoken by Dee Henderson

I think it is clear by now that I read voraciously in a variety of genres.  I enjoy bestsellers, classics, mysteries, science fiction, juvenile and young adult fiction, and nonfiction. 

One of our most popular sections here at Franklin County Library is the Inspirational Fiction section.  These books are written from a Christian point of view and are usually light escapist romances.  They are great reading for a cold, rainy, dreary day!

Inspirational Books cover both sides of this shelf!

However, occasionally, I find an author who's works are deeper and more intriguing than the norm for the genre.  Lately, I have been thoroughly enjoying everything by Dee Henderson, especially her more recent books.  Of her three more recent titles, Full Disclosure, Unspoken, and Undetected, I think Unspoken is my favorite. 

It begins with businessman Bryce Bishop closing up shop at the end of a long day.  He is the owner of an exclusive coin shop, dealing in rare and valuable coins.  He is reflecting on the success of his business and the fact that he is bored at work.  As he leaves, an intriguing woman introduces herself as Charlotte Graham and invites him into the shop next door.  She has set up a coin store rivaling his in every way.  She offers him an ultimatum - either he buys her out, or she opens up as a competitor.  Feeling as though he has no choice, Bryce agrees to buy her out.  Charlotte tells him that she has another group of coins that she will offer him for purchase in a few weeks and disappears.

Over the next months, Bryce gets to know the mysterious woman and finds out that she was once at the center of the most famous kidnapping case in Chicago's recent history.  She has changed her name and moved on with her life, but disposing of an inheritance, of which the coins are only part, has brought her back to Chicago.  Bryce finds himself intrigued both by Charlotte herself and the many secrets she holds close to the vest.  He is certainly not bored anymore!

I enjoy Ms. Henderson's style of writing.  She researches her books well, so that every scenario is believable.  Her characters have deep backgrounds that are slowly revealed.  At the end of each book, I feel like the characters still have depths left unplumbed.  Many of her books deal with members of the police, FBI or military, particularly the Navy. 

I highly recommend any of her books.  I hope she puts out something new soon!