Cactus View Book Club: Murder in Surprise

Cactus View Book Club is set in an active adult community in beautiful Surprise, Arizona. After a new member joins the ladies' book club, members soon become entangled in a murder investigation that continues to escalate. As the bodies pile up in this gripping novel, Detectives Baxter and Begay are charged with unraveling the secrets and mysteries hidden within the club. Multiple deaths and suspects emerge as club members create a web of lies and betrayals. With its intriguing plot, secrets, hidden agendas, action, and desert setting, Cactus View Book Club (Murder in Surprise) will keep readers engaged to the end.

Excerpt: After the club members had finished discussing John Grisham's novel "The Reckoning," the conversation drifted into the happenings of their personal lives and the surrounding community. The Cactus View Book Club was as much about socializing as it was about books. Several members refilled wine glasses and sampled the snacks from the kitchen counter.

Katy Cullen drifted over to the newest member, Emily Settlemire. "Judy is having a tough time," Katy whispered.

"You mean about the affair?" asked Emily.

"Yes."

"That's sad. Judy is such a beautiful woman, and she seems nice enough."

"I've met her husband, and he comes across as a jackass if you ask me."

"Judy said they were trying to work things out," Emily reminded her.

"She tries to hide it, but I believe he is having another affair."

"Has Judy told you that?" asked Emily.

"You can see the signs. Judy has gotten more sullen over the last couple of weeks. She mentioned something about him not being able to control himself."

"Well, there's a simple fix to that. She should kick his ass out."

"Judy won't do that," insisted Katy.

"Why not?"

"She needs the money. She was a stay-at-home mom for most of their marriage. When she finally found a job, it was in retail. I believe she worked at Kohl's."

"And her husband is a surgeon," replied Emily. "They must have a lot of money. She is entitled to at least half of it."

"Well, Judy worries he would fight her and tie up the money for years. She's also afraid he would get the main house in Washington because that's where his primary practice is. That would leave her the house in Cactus View. She's not sure she would enjoy living here full time."

"If Judy needs advice on getting out of an awful marriage, send her to me," said Emily.

"What can you do?" asked Katy.

Before Emily could answer, Linda Riggs walked over. "We are delighted to have you in our club, Emily."

This is Mark Beckner's fifth book in a line of thrilling murder dramas. Previous titles are Behind the Lies; Death From Desire; Naked Evidence; and Silent Waters.