Book Review: 'Artifacts' by Mary Ann Evans

Faye Longchamp has a lot of problems. Recently detached from her fiancé, her biggest worry now is a great deal of money owed for property taxes. While working on an archaeological dig, 2 college kids are murdered. Add the endless risks she’s taking by illegally selling artifacts & Faye is in a downward spiral. As if 2 dead students aren’t enough, Faye unearths a skeleton. These aren’t fossils and Faye needs to tie the pieces together quickly. The police are dumbfounded so it’s up to an archaeologist to save the day. Is someone intentionally killing scientists? Faye’s already full hands now must dig for clues. Along with an eclectic bunch of locals, she fights towards truth. Is there more on the island than trees & sand? With a grand slam plot & a perfect heroine, Ms. Evans blends history with suspense & thrill. Faye is loveable & an endearing underdog. I kept guessing at the murderer’s identity until the ends. Delving with Faye to the roots of her heritage was as exciting as the main plot. Tales of her lineage were historically accurate for fiction. The topic of slavery is a hard one to blend. However, it is tastefully done. Faye Longchamp appears frequently in Ms. Evans books. They’re identified accordingly. I love that she isn’t trying to be a detective. She simply ends up as such. For the most part, it’s clean. The few language issues & adult scenes are an explanation of Faye’s family history. I’m glad I discovered this literary treasure- 5 of 5 stars.