The Clouds Roll Away

February 15, 2010
FBI forensic genealogist Raleigh Harmon's behavior got her exiled to Seattle. Now that she's returned home to Virginia, she is hoping for some normalcy when she gets caught up in a civil rights case and is forced undercover in a drug investigation. Problems with family, friends, and an old flame further complicate her life. VERDICT Giorello's third Raleigh Harmon novel (after the Christy Award-winning "The Stones Cry Out" and "The Rivers Run Dry") is a gritty, suspense-filled page-turner that will appeal to those who prefer their forensic thrillers with a moral theme.

Copyright 2010 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from March 15, 2010
Someone in Richmond, Virginias elite historical neighbornood wants rap star RPM to leave their little slice of paradise, and they let him know by burning a cross in his yard. FBI agent Raleigh Harmon, a forensic geologist transferred back home from the Pacific Northwest, is tapped to investigate what seems to be a hate crime, but soon discovers its more than that. As Raleigh dedicates herself to solving this case, going undercover for a dangerous sting, her former boyfriend, DeMott Fielding, wants to rekindle their relationship. Pulled in too many ways by ostracism at work, DeMotts renewed need for her (and her time), and her widowed mothers increasingly worse mental condition, Raleigh is on the edge. Beautifully written with exquisite descriptions, Giorellos mystery also features well-developed characters, such as a rapper who plays classical music on a cello to relax. The themes of redemption and faith rediscovered are subtly integrated into the story. This is the third title in journalist Giorellos excellent Raleigh Harmon series, following The Stones Cry Out (2007) and The Rivers Run Dry (2009). Libraries will want all three.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)