The 25th installment in the series is the first I've read. It was pretty good (not spectacular). I'd probably rate it 3-3.5. I may read another in the series. ( )

I love Marcia Muller's books -- especially the Sharon McCone series. I've just started this one but expect it to be as good as all the rest!...and it was!

Sharon McCone takes a break suffering from severe burn out, but can't resist being drawn into a new case - one of the workers on her husband's ranch is worried about a relative who looks to be in trouble. Perhaps not a favourite in the series, but a very good fast read. Probably more enjoyable for those who've followed the series. ( )

Sharon McCone has retreated to the ranch at Tufa Lake to deal with her severe depression and to decide her direction for the future. She is suffering from burn out, is remotely managing her private investigation firm in San Francisco and becomes involved in solving the murders of her & Hy's ranch manager's sister and niece, Miri and Hayley Perez. ( )

I always look forward to a new Marcia Muller novel, whether it's a Sharon McCone or a stand alone. "Burn Out" was OK, but others in the McCOne series have been better or much better, e.g. the last one "The Ever-Running Man".
"Burn Out" may be a transition for McCone. The title is an apt one; during most of the story it is unclear whether she will stay with her investigating, or maybe go into her husband's security firm, or do something altogether different. For the first third of the book there is a definite cloud over her that become a bit tedious. Fortunately as she gets into the mystery the story picks up and makes the book a worthwhile read.
There were plot developments with some of the characters and perhaps they will take a larger role in the next McCone mystery. ( )