Fans of police dramas will enjoy this one set in New Orleans. A company who creates elaborate live game challenges with escape rooms has a surprise feature: a murder. Things get complicated as the victim is the ex-wife of the game creator.

This story was an interesting one, with a complex plot gradually building the suspense and drama through police interviews, some flashbacks, and eventually an action filled climax. There were so many people who could be the murderer that it surprised me when finally revealed. It was well written, creating a lot of character depth with meaningful dialogue and some heavy topics, with added faith. Grayson is a man who struggles with forgiveness understandably, and shows a lot of grace to others though the circumstances are difficult. Loved the conversation he had with Monique, as he wrestles with the "what-ifs" of his failed relationship; I found a lot of wisdom and encouragement in that. Others who care to "speak the truth in love" to him, like his colorful assistant Pam, were sources of inspiration too. Ultimately knowing that God can create something good out of our mistakes is a comforting thought.

Recommend to readers who enjoy crime mysteries with some action and faith elements. No romance here though the topics of marital problems and divorce are discussed.
4.5 stars

STRATAGEM BY ROBIN CAROLL is a fascinating read, full of suspense and hard to put down. The story takes place in New Orleans where a psychologist, Grayson Thibodeaux, makes games for corporate companies, mostly as team building excercises. These games often show up people's fears and failures, in many cases making them deal with them and leading to healing in those areas.
Recently divorced, his wife Anna Belle takes part in a game that he has specially designed for the company she works for, in order to choose the best candidate for a big promotion.
When she is murdered during the game, Grayson, being the ex husband, is the number one suspect. We can feel his emotions as he tries to make sense out of a senseless murder and also as so much is revealed about the woman he thought he knew, and who he still seems to love in spite of everything.
It is a most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by Barbour Publishing Inc from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.