From the very first page, The Blue Hour, had me in its thrall. The retired detective Tim Hess and his crusty young partner Merci Rayborn are delightful, though flawed, characters. My heart breaking thing all the way through the story Because The ravages of cancer treatment were poignantly detailed. Merci's unbelievable understanding of Hess's struggle and her empathy were endearing. The mystery itself was a top-notch thriller, but the character development really makes this book worthy of recommendation. I loved every word on every page - until the very last and then I cried. That must mean something!