Shruthi Jayaram Jayaram itibaren Pravokhettinskiy, Yamalo-Nenetskiy, Cónaidhm na Rúise, 629745
“Deadly Treasure” is a new LDS mystery novel by first-time author Jillayne Clements. Set against the backdrop of the Lost Rhoades Mine, the story combines legends from the past and a contemporary setting. Lexi Rhoades is heartbroken when her grandfather dies. He called her a few days before and left a message on her cell, telling her he wants to talk to her. But by the time she gets the message, it’s too late. While clearing out her grandfather’s things, she comes across a trunk filled with old belongings, one of them being a locket. Lexi finds herself drawn to the locket and decides to keep it as a memento of her grandfather, only to learn that the locket holds the key to a mystery that has been in the family for generations. The Lost Rhoades Mine was something of a family legend, the story passed down from parents to children. Lexi knew she was descended from Thomas Rhoades, the man who was supposedly chosen by the local Indians to come into the mine and take what was needed for the good of the Church, but she was never sure if the story was true or not. Her grandfather always believed it was and intended to prove it. As she goes through his things, she wonders if that’s why he tried to contact her before his death. Her curiosity sparked, she decides to go on a treasure hunt of her own. The story combines mystery, suspense and romance in a way that makes for an enjoyable read. I did feel that the mystery could have been introduced a little more naturally, and I also felt that the dialogue became a bit preachy toward the end, but those two small criticisms aside, I recommend “Deadly Treasures” for a light afternoon’s read.