Cliff Hanger (A Maggie McDonald Mystery)

Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz is the fifth A Maggie McDonald Mystery. Maggie McDonald along with her two boys, Brian and David are heading to Monterey Bay for the summer. Maggie has been hired by the management of the Heron Beach Resort to help the new complex manager, Renee Alvarez organize the office and the payment includes a condo for the summer. David and Brian notice a downed ultralight aircraft pilot and quickly contact emergency services. The distraught family lashes out by filing a lawsuit against the boys and has them the target of an investigation by local law enforcement. The family rallies their resources and begins a deep dive into the victim's life. After noticing some suspicious activity at night, Maggie believes there is some foul play afoot. I thought Cliff Hanger was nicely written, moves along at a steady rate and is just the right length. While Cliff Hanger is the fifth book in the series, it can easily be read alone. The characters are established, and I find them relatable. Maggie has a good relationship with her two kids, and they have gotten the sleuthing bug from her. The complex crime was not what you typically find in a cozy mystery (I do not want to share too much and spoil it for you). It is multifaceted with a handful suspects and misdirection. The family certainly came up with some unique theories regarding the crime. The action kept the story moving forward toward the conclusion. There is a good wrap-up that ties up the loose threads. I enjoyed the authors vivid descriptions especially those of Monterey Bay and the sea life (a blue whale and dolphins). It was interesting to learn about ultralight aircraft and the regulations for them. I enjoyed Maggie's handy tips at the beginning of reach chapter to help people prepare for trips. I thought they were clever, helpful and easy to implement. Cliff Hanger has an uplifting adventure with two teenage sleuths, stunning sea life, a malodorous condo, disorganized records, and one weary and worried woman.