The Gold Standard

The Gold Standard Lisa J. Lickel 2009 Barbour Heartsong Presents ISBN 978-1-59789-525-5 Genre: Fiction/Cozy Mystery Reviewed by Cindy Loven Judy Winters is overwhelmed and sad, her aunt who raised her, has died suddenly, and it appears to be murder, instead of an accidental death. The sheriff is waiting for the toxicology report, to find out what poison has killed Aunt Louise. The reading of the will, reveal conditions, that seem baffling to Judy, conditions if unfulfilled will transfer the family land to a group called KOWPIE a grassroots organization that calls for the protection of natural areas. The story unfolds as Judy, a school teacher, comes to the farm for the summer to make up her mind about what she wants to do about the farm and the conditions of the will. Strange occurrences begin happening as Judy hires out some minor remodeling, making her suspicious of everyone around her. Her faith sustains her and carries her past her suspicions and doubts. Add in a handsome neighbor and the set up for love is in the air, although there is a wrinkle with a casual boyfriend who suddenly thinks marriage is in the air and will not take no for an answer. Sudden appearances from the former boyfriend adds in complications to an already complicated mystery. Romance, from years gone by, and hidden treasure, a "lost" bomb shelter, and a found letter from years and years ago, rekindle the romance between Judy's aunt's friends, leading to a late in life marriage. This story was a wonderfully written cozy mystery, it caught my attention from the first page, to the final page. Ms Lickel wrote a wonderful story full of faith, love, and mysteries. This book truly deserves the 4 star rating I gave this book. 251 pages $6.95 US