Buried Diamonds

Claire Montrose discovers an engagement ring that has gone missing for 50 years. Did the young woman who owned it really commit suicide? One of Claire's elderly neighbors harbors an old secret—and will kill to keep it hidden. Past and present grow more entangled when neo-Nazis target Claire's Jewish roommate. Henry's trademark mix of quirky characters, humor, and vanity license plates also explores the persistent shadows of the past.

A Portland mystery writer continues her rising career with an engaging tale set in motion when her irrepressible protagonist, Claire Montrose, discovers a diamond ring in a stone wall and sets in motion a hunt into its surprising history.

Danger increases in this no-holds-barred novel of suspense, as hate crimes abound, and friends of Charlie's from the time of Liz's death meet with critical injuries. Cozy trappings, from Claire's ditzy mother's antics to developing romantic relationships, effectively contrast with chilling glimpses of Charlie's concentration camp days and interludes of seemingly unrelated modern-day hate-crimes in Portland. A vivid cast of elderly characters, including Frank, whose newfound popularity can be traced to his ability to drive at night, and Nova, who continues to live as recklessly as ever, will especially please senior fans.