As the sorority sisters and their plus ones convene to reconnect, socialize, and partake in outdoor activities, old rivalries surface, and the anger of past betrayals is reignited. This is an accomplished group, with varied careers and life experiences, including a popular novelist, a therapist, a science teacher, and a successful scientist about to launch a new IPO for her product. When one sorority sister is shot dead in the pool during an early morning swim, Olivia and Aubrey have their work cut out for them to track down the killer and keep the host from any harm.  Will they accomplish their task? Or will a murderer walk free?

THE FORTY-YEAR GRUDGE is the second outing in this mystery series and is truly enjoyable. Aubrey Merritt is a world-renowned detective dedicated to her vocation and less inclined to frivolous or emotional endeavors. Olivia is young, newly married, and eager to learn, making her a great sidekick for Aubrey. Olivia does most of the detecting at Aubrey’s direction, and the results are sometimes disastrous and sometimes highly effective. This is a closed- circle mystery where the characters are all brought to a secluded location, umping the ambiance and heightening the level of suspense, including the scorpion encounters. The plot moves along nicely, with interesting character interactions and smart, well-placed clues. The motive and final reveal are well- crafted and easily plausible, making this a mystery that is satisfying and pleasing.  THE FORTY-YEAR GRUDGE delivers an entertaining mystery that will delight mystery readers who like the pairing of an older, refined detective, working alongside a younger, less experienced sleuth.