The Hidden Branch is the fifth in the Alex and Briggie mystery series about two genealogists who solve murder mysteries. I haven’t read the previous books in the series, but references to previous books in the series only piqued my curiosity, without giving away anything that appeared crucial to previous plots. After I got through the first few chapters, I found myself drawn into the story, and my attention was riveted. It isn’t high suspense like those that grab you by the throat and make you hold on while your pulse bounds wildly in your throat. It is, however, very engrossing and well worth a read. I’m definitely going out to search for earlier books in this series. Here’s the back cover copy:
Paul Mardian is a shining example of the American dream. The grandson of an Armenian immigrant who fled to the United 
States during the genocide of 1915, Paul is a self- made industrial tycoon and one of the most eligible bachelors in the country. But the dream is shattered when Paul turns up dead and his valuable collection of ancient Armenian artifacts goes missing.
Hired to find the murdered man’s heirs, professional genealogist Alexandra Campbell and her sidekick, Briggie, are brought to the swanky beaches of Southern California and a community of Armenian relatives who all seem to be hiding a secret.
When another family member is suddenly murdered, Alex discovers there is more at stake than an unclaimed fortune or missing antiques, but piecing together Paul’s complicated family tree may be more dangerous than she ever anticipated. Author G. G. Vandagriff combines mystery, suspense, and romance in this page- turning thriller!
Vandagriff has four other books out which are unrelated to this series, which you can learn about on her website. She also has a blog she updates regularly. Her books are available everywhere LDS books are sold.
Deseret Book sent me a review copy of this book but it in no way influenced what I said about the book.
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I had a great signing in Beaver earlier tonight, and I have a few more this week. Friday evening I’ll be in Nephi at Mt Nebo Thriftway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Saturday I’ll be at Kent’s Market in Ephraim from 10-2 and Manti Market from 3-7.
What a unique idea. Thanks for sharing your review. =]
Heather! Thanks for the review! I think you would really enjoy the rest of this series. You can go on my website to read a digest of each of the plots. Let me know which one you want most and I will send it to you for Christmas! Be sure to include your snail mail address! You would also like Arthurian Omen, I think. It is psychological suspense and DOES grab you by the throat.
I've read a couple of the previous books. They were very engaging. I'll have to get my hands on a copy of this one. Great review!
Sounds like a fun read. Thanks for reviewing it.
This book looks great! It has all the elements I love.