Beryl Rullman
Fiction 1992 | 406 pages
Some of you know this book, I am certain. Others may wonder why I am reviewing a 30-year-old out-of-print book. (And breaking all my rules by giving it eight hearts!) April 1, 2022 was the thirty-year anniversary of this murder mystery, written by my husband. Though I spent untold hours (and hours) editing this book, that was about 31 years ago and I did not, frankly, remember much if it. I thought I would honor the novel and the author by rereading it at this time.
Yes, I am biased. AND, this is darn good writing!
A psychopath is using bows and arrows to murder hikers in Pacific Crest National Park, inciting fear, terror, trepidation. Stan, the Park Superintendent, must search for the killer, knowing that it is highly likely it is one of his staff, a park ranger. He is joined by the FBI, bounty hunters, dog trackers, military personnel and others who are skilled with tracking and weapons, to uncover the murderer. Eventually, the park is closed to all tourists, but still the havoc occurs, and more people are killed.
While this sounds gruesome and horrifying, the author has a wry sense of humor, a surprising amount of knowledge about both National Parks and archery, an amazing Springer Spaniel named Cassie (the only true-to-life being in the book), and a fondness for falling in love. The Ranger, while a murder mystery at its core, will entice you into page-turning through the vivid descriptions of the wilderness, and the tenderness of relationships between and among many of the characters.
Yes, absolutely, read or reread this book! You won't be able to find a copy, in all likelihood. And this afternoon I just bought the last used copy I could find on the Internet. So, if you wish to enjoy this bit of fantasy (which is surprisingly imbued with many reminders of my own personal history), I will loan you a book. I have a few sacred copies in my home library.
I would be honored if you read this work by my deceased husband, Beryl Rullman, which I recommend highly.
Thank you, Thom, for your eagerness to read The Ranger, and for inspiring me to read it again.
April 2022