Canyons of Night by Jayne Castle

          Canyons of Night by Jayne Castle is the third book in a trilogy.  I have not read the previous two.  However, I am impressed enough with this one, that I’ve added them to my list of books to request from the library. 

          The story takes place on an island that would seem quite normal if it existed just off either cost of the U.S.  There are a number of differences though. The primary one being that many folks have psychic, or psi, abilities, and we’re not talking telepathy or precognition.  Those abilities can be focused and used by the possessor through the use of amber crystals.  And some, especially talented individuals can use their psi energy merely by focusing their minds. 

          We begin with a new sheriff in town, a man who has been in a severe psychic accident and is apparently losing his very strong powers. He is paired with the owner of the local antique shop, whose talent, while strong, is considered virtually useless.  The first thing that happens is the shop owner finding a dead man in her shop. 

          As the sheriff’s investigation into the man’s murder progresses it becomes increasingly evident that something is very wrong on the island.  It also becomes increasingly evident that the sheriff and the shop owner were meant for each other. 

          This book is billed as the third of a trilogy, but at the end, it becomes clear that not all the mysteries have been solved.  Perhaps the tale will continue.