Every region of our country has stories of the first families that held land, cherished it, and would do anything short of betraying family for that land. They were pioneers, bootleggers, poachers, smugglers, doing what they had to to survive and rise. The novels always seem to be about Appalachia, Deep South, Texas or the like. This one is set in Michigan, my home state. “Up north” in Michigan is the northern lower peninsula, not the upper peninsula as a non-Michigander would guess. Well written with believable characters. A far-fetched tale that I found believable, oft told conflicts told in a new way.

This story of a colorful and eccentric family takes place on the lake shores of Michigan. Those very same shorelines provided the livelihood for the Sawbrook family for generations.

Years have passed; developers have circled and have landed, wanting the land; and the family is running out of time and of money. Will they be able to keep their valuable heritage, or will it become more golf courses and condominiums?

This novel takes the reader on a wild ride as the youngest grown daughter, Jewell, tries to cash in on some quick money to aid her family in their quest to keep their land.

It's a story of what one will do not only for love of land, but more importantly, love of family.

This novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page.

Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for this family saga mystery.