Shots in the Dark (Mack's Bar Mysteries)

Shots in the Dark by Allyson K. Abbott is the fourth book in A Mack's Bar Mystery series. Mackenzie "Mack" Dalton owns Mack's Bar in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Her boyfriend, Duncan Albright is a homicide detective, but they have had to keep their relationship under wraps. Duncan got into trouble with his superiors for using Mack's ability on a few cases and because of the letters. Someone does not believe in Mack's synesthesia (a neurological disorder where she experiences every sense in two ways). They are now sending her letters that are puzzles. If she does not figure out the clues before the deadline, someone she knows and cares about will die. Mack was unable to meet the last deadline because of a car accident and Gary Gunderson was killed. Mack broke her leg in the accident and is still in a cast. The Capone Club is approached by Sandra Middleton. Sandra would like them to look into her brother, Ben's case. Ben was convicted of killing his wife, Tiffany and Sandra does not believe he committed the crime. The Capone Club decides to take the case after making sure Sandra understands that their investigation could uncover that Ben is guilty. Sandra just wants the truth. Mack is glad the group is busy with another case while she handles the mystery letter writer. She does not want another friend to die because she could not figure out a clue in time. Who is behind these letters? It is obvious they do not believe in her skills (her synesthesia). Each letter with its clues are getting increasingly more difficult. Will they be able to find the person responsible before there is another victim? Is Ben Middleton innocent or guilty? Join Mack, Mal, Duncan, and the Capone Club as they set out to get answers.

Shots in the Dark was an engrossing novel. Mack is a unique character. Her synesthesia is an interesting disorder, and I like how it used to solve the puzzles. The mysteries are complex and twisty (just wonderful). Shots in the Dark is well-written and goes a good pace (fast). I give Shots in the Dark 4.5 out of 5 (I more than liked it). There was some repetition of information (about Mack's disorder especially). I believe that the love triangle between Mack, Duncan, and Mal needs to be resolved (soon). I hope Mack picks Mal (I like him better than Duncan). I thought it was odd that Mack would "sleep" (euphemism) with Duncan when she is falling for Mal. This book, like the previous one, ended with the mysterious letter writer case still unsolved. I am hoping this case will get wrapped up in the next book (how long can it drag on). This is the fourth book in the series, but it can be read alone. The author rehashes the previous books right away to bring readers up-to-date. I am looking forward to reading the next book in A Mack's Bar Mystery series to see if I am on the right track with the mystery letter's writer identity.

I received a complimentary copy of the novel in exchange for an honest evaluation. The comments and opinions expressed above are strictly my own.