Victim or perpetrator? That's what New Mexico's favorite public relations maven, Sasha Solomon, can't figure out about her favorite niece. The daughter of Sasha's overbearing sister, Gabi is a grad student at Socorro's New Mexico Tech, where she's studying explosives technology. In town to help boost area tourism, Sasha looks forward to spending time with the young woman. But the PR pro never imagined it would be in the hospital, where Gabi lands after someone rigs her mailbox with a nasty surprise. Jewish with an Iranian surname, Gabi could be the victim of a hate crime. But as details emerge about her work and personal relationships, she begins to appear less as a victim than as a threat. Meanwhile, Sasha learns that the family of her client, town patriarch Papi Sanchez, is riddled with secrets and scandal. At once a topically flavored whodunit and a realistic portrayal of the way families join together--or don't--in a crisis, "The Socorro Blast" is a blend of mystery and domestic drama, with the flawed but always engaging Sasha Solomon on center stage."Lucky readers who enjoyed Pari Noskin Taichert's first two Sasha Solomon novels don't need to be told she's a first class writer. But they're going to find "The Socorro Blast" is even better. It's full of wit and sociological insights."--Tony Hillerman"PR sleuth Sasha Solomon takes us on yet another rollercoaster read. Fans of Noskin Taichert will love the unexpected twists right up to the shocking conclusion. "The Socorro Blast" is her best work yet, as Sasha whips her way through one of New Mexico's most diverse landscapes."--Barbara Richardson, First Lady of New Mexico""The Socorro Blast" is indeed a blast, andliterally opens with one. The narrator, Sasha, is one feisty lady and has a mouth on her to rival the best of the Irish spirit. The mystery is compelling and New Mexico is conveyed with a love and poetic eye that is truly evocative. The dynamic or dysfunction of families is captured brilliantly."--Ken Bruen, multiple award-winning mystery novelist