Black Forest Reckoning, revised 2nd edition

Revised 2nd edition: Dark secrets and events unfold in a Black Forest castle setting----In Hardy Durkin’s third book, Black Forest Reckoning, we find Hardy and company hiking various venues in the Black Forest, including a day in the luxurious spa town of Baden-Baden, while experiencing the historical legacy, cultural heritage, and sumptuous foods of that region. Their host is Baron Haeflin, owner and lord of the Schloss they call home during their stay. Also resident at Schloss Haeflin is a waif of a girl, the baron’s niece, Zsu-Zsu, who has never spoken, due to emotional trauma at an early age. When another co-ed from the University of Freiburg is reported missing, the third, so far, members of the hiking group realize they are at ground zero for a possible serial killer. Once the suspicion that Baron Haeflin has stolen the identity and money of the real Baron Haeflin becomes a certainty, Hardy’s concern for Zsu-Zsu’s safety is aroused and the game is afoot. Hardy is convinced that Zsu-Zsu holds the key to it all, but she’s not telling anyone. While investigating the baron’s true identity, Hardy suddenly comes up missing. Ultimately, it is Hardy Durkin who untangles the web of deceit, madness, and murder in The Black Forest Reckoning.

Bluette Matthey is a third-generation Swiss American, an avid lover of Europe and its cultures, and a keen reader of mysteries. Her love of travel is shared by her husband, who formerly owned a tour outfitter business in Europe. Bluette maintains a mental list of hikes and pilgrimages she still wants to do throughout Europe. She currently lives in Le Locle (NE) Switzerland with her husband, and band of loving cats.