Where There's a Will by Amy K. Rognlie

"Where There's a Will" is the second book in Amy K. Rognlie's 'Short Creek Mystery Series.' Who wouldn't enjoy a book about a missing will and a town called Short Creek? I stumbled upon this author and her series when I received a free review copy via a cozy mystery group I belong to. Kudos to Rognlie for creating a Christian cozy mystery series with diversity and a focus on living a better life through faith. In this book, Callie gets a call in the wee hours of the morning from her aunt noting that a friend is in trouble. When Callie checks on the friend, she's okay. But she's not the next day! As the story progresses, we learn about a missing family, a ruthless real estate agent, a couple of cases of hidden identities, and a much sought after will. Who inherits? Who really knows what happened years ago when the family disappeared? Who is in cahoots with whom to find the proverbial gold at the end of this rainbow? The mystery is strong, almost too strong! It took a lot to keep track of of few merging story-lines, but I like the complexity. Rognlie has created a wonderful setting with a very strong religious theme. If you enjoy mysteries but also reading bible verses, learning how to be a better / kinder person, relying on Jesus to help protect and support you, and share prayers, this is the book for you. The author weaves together a collection of Short Creek inhabitants who rely on their religious beliefs to get them through each day, even when it includes murder. Just like other cozies with themes, you need to have an interest in Christianity and prayer to fully understand and absorb this book. It goes to show how faith can help people get through a tough situation. I haven't read many books in this sub-genre / theme, but it seems to be a good example of it. The characters are well-drawn and the writing is good. It should find a great audience. Thanks for sharing it!