Praise
Across and Down in the Desert blew me away, I ended up completely caught up in the crossword clues, hidden maps, and strange history buried in the Arizona desert. Phyllis Doran is such a refreshing lead because she’s smart, capable, and quietly stubborn without ever feeling overdone. The desert setting adds so much to the story, especially once the clues start connecting to old mines, missing people, and long-buried secrets. I also loved how the crossword puzzle element kept unfolding in clever ways instead of feeling gimmicky. This is one of those mysteries that’s easy to sink into for hours, especially if you enjoy puzzles, archaeology, and small-town desert intrigue.
Fascinating story!
I really enjoyed this short read! You really get to know the characters and I can’t wait to read the next one to see what they encounter next!
This cozy mystery has such a unique setup. The crossword clues woven through the story made the mystery feel interactive, and the Arizona desert backdrop gave everything an extra sense of danger and isolation. Phyllis Doran was easy to root for, especially with her archaeology background and sharp eye for detail. I really enjoyed how the story balanced puzzles, suspense, and hidden family history without losing momentum. Fans of clue-driven mysteries and desert adventures will likely fly through this one.
An archaeology story with heart
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2026
Format: Kindle
I absolutely loved this book! I was so appreciative of being part of the author's ARC team. This book couldn't have been a better fit for me. I'm a fan of cozy mysteries and the crossword puzzle angle is such a fun way to approach the story. I have loved archaeology settings for as long as I can remember, especially "Indiana Jones" and have always said there's simply not enough fiction set in the archaeology world. This was the perfect fit for me. It is a fun romp with fleshed out characters that grow and learn, and it's enjoyable to see the process. I learned a lot about archaeology and nature from this book as well. The author was inspired by his mother for the wise and warm female protagonist. Please don't hesitate to check it out! I think it's something unique and heartwarming and well written. More Phyllis, please!!!
4.0 out of 5 stars Across & Down
Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2026
Format: Kindle
I was gifted this book as an ARC, and I was so excited to read it.
This story captured my attention right away, I was eager to know what was happening and wanted to always know what was happening next. I couldn't put it down. This isn't a normal genre for me, but the information was very fascinating. The details really are what kept me hooked. I look forward to other books in this series, it really left a great opening for other peoples lives and stories to be explored.
This cozy mystery has such a unique setup. The crossword clues woven through the story made the mystery feel interactive, and the Arizona desert backdrop gave everything an extra sense of danger and isolation. Phyllis Doran was easy to root for, especially with her archaeology background and sharp eye for detail. I really enjoyed how the story balanced puzzles, suspense, and hidden family history without losing momentum. Fans of clue-driven mysteries and desert adventures will likely fly through this one.
Crossword puzzles have never looked this dangerous. One dead traveler, one retired archaeologist, and one desert full of secrets turn Across and Down in the Desert into a wild ride through hidden mines, coded clues, and trouble waiting behind every rock formation. Phyllis Doran doesn’t back down, even when the puzzle starts pointing directly at her. The mix of dusty desert trails, old legends, and brain-teasing clues makes this mystery ridiculously fun to read. If you like your cozy mysteries with more danger, more puzzles, and a heroine who can outsmart almost anyone, grab this one fast.