I’ll admit I didn’t know quite what to expect when I read Palmetto Poison by C. Hope Clark. This is the third in her Carolina Slade series.
I’ve followed Clark’s blog and newsletter for writing advice for some time now. So, when she offered a copy of the book for review, I jumped at the chance. I’m glad I did.
In Palmetto Poison, Clark weaves together a story of suspense and political intrigue. But she does so in a way that keeps the reader engaged, always wanting to know what will happen next. Carolina Slade is a South Carolina agriculture investigator who gets thrown into a case that’s far above her pay grade, and yet, she delivers. Clark keeps you turning the pages by continually forcing you to ask “what else could possibly go wrong?” Then you find out.
Palmetto Poison is well written and a comfortable read. Clark’s conversational style writing helps the reader to feel as if Slade is a long time family friend. You learn to care about her, and her family.
Clark takes the reader into the seamy side of South Carolina politics all wrapped up in the archetypal southern family. Southern charm, it seems, can cover a multitude of sins. And never, no never, mistake the genteel style of a southern matriarch as a sign of weakness.
Palmetto Poison is an enjoyable read. I think it’s time to go back and read the first two.
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I’ll admit I didn’t know quite what to expect when I read Palmetto Poison by C. Hope Clark. This is the third in her Carolina Slade series.
1 comment
Much thanks for the great review Michael. Slade is as much fun to write as she is to read.