Wordsmith World has announced the release of Hawaiian Wildflower, a new murder mystery novel by West Texas author Betty Johansen. The book stands out for its clean language and incorporation of Christian values, appealing to readers seeking suspenseful fiction without explicit content.
The 282-page novel tells the story of Maylea Kanaka, a young woman from Oahu, Hawaii, whose arrival in Lubbock, Texas, sets off a chain of events that culminate in a murder investigation. Central to the plot is accountant Dillon West and his wife Nettie, whose lives are upended by Maylea’s presence and the dark secrets she brings with her.
Since its release, Hawaiian Wildflower has received positive reviews, including a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Readers praise Johansen’s ability to craft a gripping mystery while upholding moral themes. One reviewer commented, “I enjoyed it so much that I could hardly put it down until I finished it. I was unable to guess who the killer was.” Another said, “It was action-packed and I wasn’t able to figure out the ending.”
Betty Johansen, a retired educator and native of West Texas, has dedicated her writing to creating fiction that entertains while reflecting strong ethical principles. She emphasizes that mystery novels can be both thought-provoking and faith-affirming without resorting to graphic or explicit material.
Publisher Wordsmith World supports this approach, noting a growing demand for Christian-inspired mysteries that offer readers a blend of suspense, justice, and moral clarity. Hawaiian Wildflower joins this niche market by weaving a tale that contrasts the lush beauty of Hawaii with the stark landscapes of West Texas, all while exploring themes of hidden truths and redemption.
Hawaiian Wildflower is available now in e-book and paperback formats. For more information about Betty Johansen and her work, visit bettyjohansen website.
