Robert’s Rules: Book 3 of the North of the Tension Line series

J. F.
Riordan
Genre: 
Contemporary

Fiona Campbell, former Chicago reporter, has been elected Chairman of the Town Board on Washington Island, besting the universally disliked Stella Desrosiers. But Stella always has another scheme and as budgetary issues loom, her campaign of distrust and character smearing begins to wear on Fiona’s resolve. When Peter Landry, the mysterious love of Fiona’s life, leaves after an argument, she’ll have to find new reserves of strength and courage.

Fiona’s story isn’t the only drama playing out on this small island. Young Ben struggles against a cruel bully, while a fire chief wrestles with impossible responsibilities. A loveable curmudgeon deals with unexpected – and unwanted – popularity, while an elderly woman rediscovers a long-forgotten joy, and a stuffy, quirky young man learns how his rules apply to real-life situations.

Author Riordan crafts a charming, gentle world of small town life, love, and strife. The characters and situations are loveable and familiar without being tired. The prose flows like a river and all story lines (and there are many) are tied up in a satisfying manner. If there’s one draw-back, it is that there are so many characters and stories that a new reader may find it difficult at first to keep track of who is who. With a light touch and a gentle take on the human condition, Ms. Riordan provides a welcome break from the real world. Lovers of Tom Bodett’s ‘End of the Road’ series will appreciate this. 

Janice Martin