I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
City Under One Roof by Iris Yamashita Published by National Geographic Books on January 10, 2023
Genres: Fiction, Mystery & Detective, Police Procedural, Suspense, Thrillers, Women Sleuths
Pages: 304
Format: Hardcover
After remains are found on the shore on the small village of Point Mettier, Alaska, law enforcement from Anchorage is brought into investigate. Point Mettier isn't exactly a destination location; all of the villagers live in one building, a true city under one roof.
Once the Anchorage Police leave, one detective remains. Cara's interest in the case is personal. She hopes to get all the information she needs before the weather changes and the tunnel, the only route out of Point Mettier, is impassable.
The odds aren't in her favor; an avalanche blocks her only exit. Now she's trapped in Point Mettier, potentially with the one responsible for the remains. She soon learns that she's not the one holding back on the truth. It seems like most of the residents of Point Mettier are running from something.
Interesting factoid: the setting of the city in one building is actually based on the city of Whittier, Alaska. I learned about this city one one of the weekend news programs. When I learned about this title and the setting, I couldn’t resist.
Just the concept of the building-town is interesting! Everything contained within one building! A grocery store, school, church, health clinic. No need to ever leave, right? More like no one would really want to stay, or even visit. The perfect location for people to hide. Now, add a potential murder and you have 200 potential suspects!
Cara’s character is one you have a difficult time gauging at first. She’s at a crime scene under false pretenses. She’s an outsider, so the locals really don’t want to let in. She has a devastating backstory. Despite all of her faults, she’s the character I connected with the most.
All in all, this was a truly intense read! The setting, the characters, the environment, all of these combined formed an incredibly engaging thriller! I can’t wait to read more from this author! Cara’s character is not one I’m ready to let go of yet! I’m definitely going to need some more. Highly recommended!
