The Virgin of Small Plains by Nancy Pickard
Review by Susan R. (Sue-in-AZ)
Synopsis
The story highlights life in small town Kansas. But this isn’t just any small town. In the graveyard lies the body of a young, unidentified girl who was brutally murdered years ago – the “Virgin” from the title. The town gave her a funeral and a tombstone – and now they believe the Virgin helps people with their troubles. If you need help with you love life, finances, health – or even if you just need someone to talk to – just go see the Virgin in the cemetery. Word of the Virgin’s abilities to heal the sick have spread over the internet, and people come from far and wide to experience the Virgin’s special abilities.
As the story unfolds, we learn that the Virgin is not completely unidentified. There are people in town who not only know who she is, but may have intentionally covered up her murder. And they may be willing to kill again to protect themselves.
The town sheriff, just a high school kid when the Virgin was murdered, is now faced with growing pressure to solve this old case. And what he uncovers could tear apart friends, families, maybe even the whole town.
The story is told from the point of view of three best friends (two boys and a girl) whose lives have been deeply affected by the murder of the Virgin. The story line bounces back and forth in time – between the time when the Virgin was murdered and 17 years later in current time.
My Review
Very well written. I thought I knew who did it about 2/3 of the way through, but in the end I found out I guessed wrong. The author did a great job of laying out clues to follow, but didn’t tip her hand until the end of the story.
There are a few love triangles in the story. Lots of regret and redemption. Sad and happy moments. There’s even a giant, destructive tornado (what story set in Kansas would be complete without a tornado?). All the story threads come together in a very satisfying conclusion.
This book was nominated for quite a few awards*, and after reading I can see why. Definitely a good read.
*Finalist 2007 Edgar Award for Best Mystery Novel
*Finalist 2007 Agatha Award for Best Novel
*Finalist 2007 Macavity Award for Best Novel
*Finalist 2007 Anthony Award for Best Mystery Novel
