The Drowning Tree

As always, Carol kept me guessing till the end. Right when you think you know how things will end she twists the story into yet another beautiful windy road.

This was a wonderfully crafted, wonderfully written novel. Every character real and well-drawn and an original story line. So great to have a mystery that doesn't require CSI-type gore to advance the pages. What beautiful parallels to mythology in this story. This is my second favorite novel of all time - The Shadow of the Wind being my first. I read a lot and this book is a pure jewel for being original and well-written... Read Full Review

Carol Goodman is a talented writer of what is commonly known as literary thrillers, a genre that precariously straddles serious literature and throwaway thrillers. Her highly literate style of writing, interest in Greek mythology and art, and her preferred choice of setting for her stories - often girls' schools and institutes of learning - lend a certain aura of female respectability to her mysteries. Those who have read... Read Full Review

I am so glad to have discovered this author! She's created a multi-faceted, intriguing story which, although not entirely plausible, is a witty and smart read, perfect for the summer. The plot weaves together art history, unrequited love and relationships, mythology, a generations-old mystery, and a modern-day murder, using as a backdrop the Hudson Valley and incorporating everything from Dante and stained glass technique... Read Full Review

Some mystery writers just like to throw out the characters and weave them into a plot without frills. But Carol Goodman takes the mystery up a level or two and carves an entertaining but thought-provoking book in the process. Ms. Goodman likes mythology and classic literature and art. She moves the plot along by using parallels from mythological tales such as Baucis and Philemon, two ancient lovers turned into a tree by Zeus... Read Full Review