The Internet can be a perplexing thing, especially for older people who have not previously been exposed to it in a professional capacity. The descriptions of J.W.'s indoctrination are neither pedantic nor are they trivialized. Experience has given me a respect for the intimidation and frustration levels experienced by J. W. in the face of his children's reckless abandon online. J.W. inadvertently solves the mystery of the Silencer by talking to his six-year-old about an Internet search done for his homework: kismet!

      The crimes are less important to this story than the setting, family life and relationships on Martha's Vineyard. The attitude voiced by most of the relatives and acquaintances at large was close to the opinion that the victims needed killing. As a plot device the murders probably didn't have to occur. They only serve to show how manipulative and heartless the murderer is, a fact that is sufficiently revealed through other actions in the story.

     It is hard not to be jealous of J.W. Jackson. There is a sensual mix of love and play between the Mr. and Mrs., two delightful children, a quiet and relaxing lifestyle on the fringe of a select American island community, and all the bluefish he can eat. Murder at a Vineyard Mansion is an interesting story based on unique aspects of a real American community. The most interesting part is that no matter how unique the people and the setting, the story is as old as sin itself.