I have several stacks of books in my apartment that beg to be read and long lists of books to purchase and read. Some are historical and genealogical in nature, and others are for relaxation time. I have now added several more books to my list. A few weeks ago, my mail included a review copy of The Foundlings: A Genealogical Crime Mystery. Author Nathan Dylan Goodwin has created a new devotee of his main character, Morton Farrier, Forensic Genealogist. This is the ninth book about this clever family man and genealogist. Now I have eight more to read. These books can be read in any order and that always makes me happy.

When I first saw this title on Twitter, I thought maybe the title, “The Foundlings,” had a mistaken “s “at the end of the work. Oh, it’s plural all right. Written by an English author and set in England, I wondered if it would be an easy read. After a few pages, I realized I was so into the story that the setting and a few phrases commonly used in England didn’t matter.

Abandoned babies, DNA connections, Farrier’s own family connection, concerns with painful information discovered, and a story that easily changes between the current time and a few decades back. Another connection to Farrier’s own family arises and I was more intrigued. Then there’s a fourth abandoned baby, a new and loved baby, and a connection to a bird. I had a few tears, some laughs, and read more pages one afternoon than I had planned. All of these twists and turns are fully connected.

The ending? Not to be shared here, but I like the way the issues were addressed. Author Goodwin handles facets of DNA testing and the way the outcomes can affect families in a clear way in the story. He does not preach, but the story itself provides enough explanations.  

Suggested book? Definitely. Yes, these books are available in Kindle editions, but I am still a lover of a book I can easily hold. 

Check out the author’s website for ordering details no matter where you reside. https://www.nathandylangoodwin.com/

© 2021, Paula Stuart-Warren. All rights reserved.

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