In the midst of a merciless blizzard, shoe-a-holic tow truck driver, Delaney Morran, finds herself in a race against time—and her own sanity. After discovering a dead woman buried in a snow-locked vehicle, she barely escapes an avalanche that obliterates all evidence of her shocking find. Distrust shadows her every move, as the police suspect she hallucinated the whole thing, and friends joke about her "body count." Fueled by guilt and a fierce determination for justice, Delaney plunges into a perilous hunt for the truth. Solving the crime would be a nice I-told-you-so, too. Can she discover the killer before becoming the next victim in this comical who-dun-it?
Friday, 18 July 2025
Fear in First Gear - Karen C. Whalen
In the midst of a merciless blizzard, shoe-a-holic tow truck driver, Delaney Morran, finds herself in a race against time—and her own sanity. After discovering a dead woman buried in a snow-locked vehicle, she barely escapes an avalanche that obliterates all evidence of her shocking find. Distrust shadows her every move, as the police suspect she hallucinated the whole thing, and friends joke about her "body count." Fueled by guilt and a fierce determination for justice, Delaney plunges into a perilous hunt for the truth. Solving the crime would be a nice I-told-you-so, too. Can she discover the killer before becoming the next victim in this comical who-dun-it?
Tuesday, 17 June 2025
Wistful Whispers - Kaylene Winter

Wistful Whispers
Kaylene Winter
(Charming Irish, #3)
Publication date: June 9th 2025
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Wistful Whispers is an irresistible battle of the wills where surrendering to forbidden temptation could cost them everything.
I never promised forever.
A good time? Absolutely.
Heartbreak? Only if they got too attached.My reputation as a quiet playboy precedes me—women talk, and my ‘talents’ follow me wherever I go. But I’ve always been upfront. No commitments. No expectations. No complications.
Marcella Delgado is nothing but complications. Brilliant. Fierce. Eight years older. And the attorney trying to take down my boss in a malpractice case. She should hate me on sight—hell, she does. But that doesn’t stop the heat between us from igniting the moment we meet.
She’s heard the stories about me firsthand, right there in the depositions. She knows exactly what I’m good at, and even though she fights it, I can see the temptation in her eyes.
One night. One line crossed.
Now my future’s unraveling—and she might be the only thing I don’t want to let go.For the first time, I want it all.
And I’ll fight like hell to be the man she can’t leave behind.
Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks

Author Bio:
When she was only 15, Kaylene Winter wrote her first rocker romance novel starring a fictionalized version of herself, her friends and their gorgeous rocker boyfriends. After living her own rockstar life as a band manager, music promoter and mover and shaker in Seattle during the early 1990’s, Kaylene became a digital media legal strategist helping bring movies, television and music online. Throughout her busy career, Kaylene lost herself in romance novels across all genres inspiring her to realize her life-long dream to be a published author. She lives in Seattle with her amazing husband and dog. She loves to travel, throw lavish dinner parties and support charitable causes supporting arts and animals.
Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / TikTok
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Thursday, 22 May 2025
Death at the Highland Loch - Lydia Travers
Scotland, 1924: When Lady Poppy Proudfoot travels to the Highlands for a midsummer party, the last thing she and her fellow guests expect is for a body to wash up beside the loch.
Despite protests that it could have been an accident, Poppy is convinced it’s murder and decides to dust off her law degree and hunt for clues. But when the police arrive, the grumpy Inspector MacKenzie dismisses her evidence, insisting a crime scene is no place for a Lady. The nerve!
With the help of her trusted Labrador, Major, Poppy begins to unpick the case. But she soon has two mysteries to solve, as her host Lady Constance Balfour claims a diamond and emerald bracelet has been stolen. Could the two cases be linked? Was it Freddy the footman, a favourite of her ladyship? Or American actress Miss Cornett, with a keen eye for jewels? Or with such a dazzling guestlist, was someone from the local village tempted into the grounds by the party?
When a woman bearing an uncanny resemblance to Poppy is attacked, she realizes that someone wants her off the case. Someone connected to Balfour House is a murderer and a thief, but who? And can Poppy solve the mystery before she, too, washes up beside the loch?
A warm, unputdownable page-turning historical whodunnit, perfect for fans of Helena Dixon, Verity Bright, T.E. Kinsey and Catherine Coles.
My Review:
There are plenty of twists and turns in this book and it certainly kept me guessing, although I had figured out one or two things by the end. I wasn't keen on the way that Poppy decided she was a detective on the strength of solving one mystery. Most amatures are a little less keen to label themselves straight away.
There are mentions of characters from a previous series I believe, I haven't ready any of the books, so didn't really understand who they were, but fans of Lydia Travers other books might well appreciate them.
This was an entertaining read and a good start to a new series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Author Bio:
Lydia also writes as Linda Tyler and her first novel under that name, Revenge of the Spanish Princess, won a 2018 Romance Writers of America competition for the beginning of an historical romance. Her second novel The Laird's Secret was Commended in the 2021 Scottish Association of Writers' Pitlochry Quaich competition for the beginning of a romantic novel. Mischief in Midlothian won the 2022 Scottish Association of Writers' Constable Silver Stag trophy. She has had a number of short stories published in magazines, journals and anthologies in the UK, the USA and Australia.
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Wednesday, 21 May 2025
Their Mended Hearts - Angie Cole

Their Mended Hearts
Angie Cole
(Cardinal Creek)
Publication date: March 25th 2025
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
He’s a firefighter haunted by tragedy; she’s a nurse who never stopped loving him. Jon and Katie find themselves drawn back together, bound by shared history and the promise of healing and hope.
Jon Clemmons, a devoted firefighter, carries the heavy burden of guilt from losing his sister in a tragic accident. His pain runs deep, and he’s learned to keep others at a distance, afraid to let anyone see his scars.
Katie Deluca, a compassionate nurse, and Jon’s first love, has her own wounds, but she’s never stopped caring for him. When they’re reunited at a family wedding, old sparks reignite, and with them, old hurts that need mending.
As Jon and Katie draw closer, Jon’s troubled past, family secrets, and a volatile temper threaten to unravel the bond between them. Katie’s unwavering love gives him hope, but fears of reliving their painful past linger.
Will they find strength in each other to break free from the grip of old grief, or will their love slip away once more?

Author Bio:
My journey as a romance author is deeply rooted in my personal experiences of love, loss, and resilience. The profound impact of the losses I have endured, including the passing of my grandparents and my parents, has shaped my perspective on life and love.
My own love story is one of healing and finding joy after heartache, and it mirrors the themes I explore in my novels.
As a survivor of grief and a believer in the power of love, I channel my experiences into crafting stories that resonate with the complexities and triumphs of the human heart. My writing is a testament to the idea that love can emerge from the most unexpected places, offering hope and healing. The one thing that can be learned from grief is that it’s a very personal experience and isn’t the same for every person.
My Review
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Wednesday, 23 April 2025
Between Today and Someday - Ann M. Trader
Prim Vreeland is an emergency department nurse, and after a string of disappointing relationships, her own heart needs life support. On a leap of faith, she moves home and is surprised when her brother’s best friend—and her secret childhood crush—has the same idea. As attraction sparks, she finds her usual steady footsteps treading on quicksand.
Sportfishing media influencer Chase Bova realizes it’s time to swap life on the road for hometown roots. When he crosses paths with Prim, she tangles his line, tying it in knots. Her charm reminds him why he’d steered clear of her years ago…and should probably do the same now.
As their irresistible connection turns into romance, questions of honesty and commitment linger. Will Prim and Chase dig deep for the courage to face their past and together, discover what really lies between today and someday?
My Review
Between Today and Someday is the second book in the Wonder of Wildflowers series. This time, hard-working nurse Primrose finds herself back in the company of her childhood crush and brother's best friend, Chase. Prim isn't the only one who has harboured feelings for Chase. He always found himself drawn to her, but felt that he wasn't good enough.
I really liked these two as a couple. They were well matched and made sense as a couple. As a rule, I'm not that keen on romances between a player and someone less experienced, but it worked in this case, possibly mostly because it wasn't as though Prim was completely inexperienced.
I do enjoy romances between people who have been friends for a long time and this certainly falls into that category. I also liked that Chase had to figure out who he was and what he wanted before he could properly get his woman.
This was a second great installment in this series and I'd be keen to find out what is going to happen next for this family with wild flower names.
Tuesday, 15 April 2025
Washed up at Sea Oats Beach - Karen C. Whalen
surfer washed ashore. As the reality of her grim find sinks in, a movement in the water catches her eye—a chocolate Lab perched on a surfboard. Did the dog belong to the surfer or someone else? With no answer to that question, Breanna fosters the traumatized canine and learns about the incredible world of dogs who surf—an unexpected yet fascinating sport.
What began as a tragic encounter quickly escalates into a homicide investigation when the authorities determine that the woman’s death was no accident. Driven by her desire for justice for the woman, and healing for the Lab, Breanna sets out to connect the lost dog to his people and unravel the secrets hiding in the tide. Will she discover the truth, or will it remain as mysterious as life under the waves?
Dive into the sequel to the award-winning Mystery at Sea Oats Beach featuring a colorful cast of characters including the island town of Sea Oats Beach itself. Sit back and relax, unwind, and escape to the shore!
My Review

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love a good cozy murder mystery and Washed up at Sea Oats Beach certainly fits that criteria. Bree hasn't lived near Sea Oats Beach for long, but she seems to have found herself in the middle of a mystery for a second time (although I haven't read the first book as yet). She finds the body of a woman on the beach, as if washed up from a surfing accident, but with strangulation marks around her neck, showing this is anything but an accident.
I loved the setting of this book, as Bree tries to find her way in this new community, juggling her own insecurities and her brother's issues, as well as trying to get to the bottom of this murder. She also takes care of a dog who was at the scene and seems to enjoy surfing and skateboarding just as much as some of the locals.
On a slightly different note, I also hadn't heard of 'sea oats' before, but they clearly belong to the same family as other dune grasses such as toi toi and I can see how they got their name with their almost feather like seeds. What a great name for them and this beach community.
This was a light hearted, but gripping read, although I hadn't a clue who was responsible by the end. It all added up and made sense though and I really enjoyed this read. I think I may have to go back and read others in the series and I'm looking forward to what happens next for Bree and her friends.
View all my reviews
Saturday, 12 April 2025
Death at Inishmore Castle - Lucy Connelly
Historic Inishmore Castle is opening its doors for the first time, hosting a charming weekend of whiskey tasting and soda bread baking. Sisters Mercy and Lizzie McCarthy are badly in need of a break, but their relaxing trip takes a decidedly unrestful turn when Mercy finds fellow guest Father Brennen slumped over the desk in the library… Did he have one glass too many or did someone want him dead?
Even more curiously, Mercy swiftly learns that the priest was no priest at all. So why was he searching through dusty old journals? Can the legend of Inishmore’s lost treasure possibly be true?
Mercy’s suspicions of foul play are confirmed when another of their party is found drowned in the lake at the edge of the manor’s estate. It can’t be a coincidence! Someone in this idyllic Irish castle is up to no good and Mercy is determined to find out who’s behind it, accompanied by her reluctant fellow sleuth and beloved dog Mr. Poe.
With a host of frightened guests and worried staff, and a storm closing in, Mercy soon has more suspects than bedrooms in the castle. Could it be the unconvincing nun, the busybody birdwatcher, or are the owners hiding something sinister? When Mercy realises there are secret passages in the walls, she thinks she might have cracked the case… but will she track the killer down, or will Inishmore be her resting place forever more?
A completely delightful Irish cozy mystery, full of warmth and wit. Fans of Agatha Christie, Carlene O’Connor and Faith Martin will love Mercy McCarthy!
My Review
This time Mercy and her sister Lizzie are visiting Inishmore Castle when a murderer strikes and writer Mercy finds herself investigating yet again. She also seems to be getting even more friendly with local Garda Kieran (and I'm hoping that's going to develop even further in future books).
I didn't manage to solve this one, but I was so caught up in the story that I didn't really spend a great deal of time trying to get to the bottom of it. Great read though. I was a little surprised for a raccoon popping up the story, but apparently google tells me that they can occasionally be found in the wild in Ireland. I can't imagine that they are a regular occurrence though, but who knows, sometimes these things quickly establish themselves.
I can't wait to find out what happens to Mercy, Lizzie, Poe the Dog and Kieran next...
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
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Thursday, 10 April 2025
Death in an English Village - Fliss Chester
1926, Sussex. The Honourable Cressida Fawcett is delighted to return to her parents’ rambling mansion to introduce them to her pug Ruby’s puppies. But when the pups go running off with Cressida in hot pursuit, they lead her to a bubbling stream – Hell’s Ditch. And the body of Bob the gardener is floating there, his outstretched hand clutching a soggy cheese and pickle sandwich.
Everyone assumes Bob died of natural causes. But when Cressida finds a glittering gold coin grasped in his other fist, she realises this is part of the long-hidden Saxon hoard. Was Bob struck down by the gold’s ancient curse? As Cressida interviews the colourful members of the local historical society, she learns that Bob had been boasting of new-found wealth, much to the annoyance of his wife, and perhaps deadly jealousy of the other members…
Luckily for Cressida, eminent historian Sir James Colston, friend of the family, arrives at the mansion with tantalising information on the whereabouts of the rest of the Saxon gold. He promises to tell all, but the very next day he collapses into his morning porridge…
To Cressida’s horror, Marian – Bob’s widow and her parents’ cook – is accused of poisoning both the porridge and Bob’s sandwich and is carted off to jail. But Cressida is sure the answers are buried in the past. Just how far would a history boffin or a hard-up local go for an ancient pot of gold? And can Cressida dig up the truth before poison worms its way into her family’s kitchen again?
An absolutely addictive, warm and witty whodunnit that will keep you reading late into the night, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright.
My Review
This is the seventh book in the Cressida Fawcett series and while they are stand alone mysteries, that would work just fine if you hadn't read the others, I think that you're missing out if don't start at the beginning. Cressida, Alf, Dotty and of course pug Ruby are such great characters and I've loved following them as they solve these mysteries. I'm loving watching Cressida's relationship with Alfred grow through each book. He's such an understanding chap and a great match for her.
The murder this time is tied up in a missing Anglo-Saxon hoard after the victim is found clutching a gold coin. Has he been killed because he has found the money, or is there more to it than that? Even though the police are on the case, Cressida seems to have the skills to get to the bottom of everything.
I'm sure that it won't be too long before Cressida finds herself in the midst of a mystery again. I can't wait to read it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Saturday, 5 April 2025
Dark Hearts Aflame - Amber Daulton
Bristol Rieger, better known as Thorn, left his criminal life behind for a fresh start in Mexico. Flying under the radar of the government and the cartels alike, his best-laid plans go awry when a woman from his narco days discovers his whereabouts. Carmen Lozano, however, is no longer the innocent girl he remembers.
Carmen escaped the chains of her tiara and her abusive marriage to join a group of resistance fighters. The last thing she expected was the now-retired capo setting out to seduce her with his wicked touch. Embracing the blood on his hands is easy, but his secrets wear on her patience.
When their enemies close in, Bristol will have to summon his inner monster to protect her. But can that monster be tamed again?
– Book one in the dark romantic suspense series, the Lozano Cartel. All the books can be read as a standalone, but are part of an interconnected series.
– Scenes featuring torture/violence, kidnapping, attempted assault, drug use, and suicide (discussed) may be uncomfortable for some readers.
– No cheating and HEA guaranteed!

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Dark Hearts Aflame follows the story of Carmen and Bristol. Carmen is in hiding from her husband and family. She meets Bristol by accident, who is also on the run from his criminal past. They were both very attracted to one another when they were younger and now, meeting again, it's impossible to deny their attraction.
Unlike many characters in similar books, Carmen is a strong woman who isn't afraid to get what she wants and from who she wants. I'm a bit sick of these virginal, quiet types, so this certainly made a welcome change. Bristol is a good match for her and I thought that they worked really well together.
It did amuse me that to hide his identity, Bristol changed his second name, but stuck with Bristol. I don't think I've ever heard anyone with that as their name before. But perhaps that's simply because I'm in the UK and naming people after British cities is something we don't really do.
This was a gripping and satisfying read and I'd recommend.
View all my reviews
Friday, 14 March 2025
A Village Theatre Murder - Katie Gayle
There’s nothing quite like a night at the theatre. But Julia Bird is expecting a night of sweeping drama, not an onstage murder!
Graham’s wife Jane collapses in a puddle of tears as Oscar is comforted and led away from the stage. But days later when Julia spots prim and proper Jane kissing Oscar, she wonders if the grieving widow’s tears were fake. Graham served Jane divorce papers the day of the tragedy – was he killed before he could spill the beans on his wife’s affair, and sully her perfect reputation?
Meanwhile, the aptly named director, Roger Grave, wants the show to go on. The play is up for a local award, and this might just be Roger’s big break. But when failed actor Hector is not assigned the lead role he assumed he’d get, the mood among the cast quickly turns sour. Could Hector have killed Graham out of jealously for the leading role, Julia wonders?
Then another member of the crew is found dead and Julia discovers there’s a dark secret at the heart of Berrywick’s local theatre society. But who would kill to protect it? Can Julia find the murderer before it’s curtains for another victim?
A totally gripping, charming cosy mystery set in the English countryside. Fans of M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin and Betty Rowlands will absolutely love the Julia Bird Mysteries.
My Review
In addition to the mystery, there's always the subplot of Julia's life and that of her friends and family. In previous books, we've met significant people from Julia's past, her ex-husband and daughter. This time we get to meet Sean's son Jonno. As a mystery, it doesn't need these extras, but it just adds to the enjoyment and depth of the read.
I was way ahead of Julia on this one, but I will admit that was probably down to a lucky guess on my part. It was still lots of fun to follow Julia's investigation.
I really enjoy this series. I hope that we shall return soon, no doubt there will be yet another murder in this sleeply little village that Julia can get caught up in. She seems to have a nack for it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Author Bio:
Friday, 7 March 2025
Murder at the Loch - Dee MacDonald
Before she knows it, Ally finds herself wading into the middle of a new investigation. Who was the mystery woman and why was she killed? Her enquiries take her all over the village: from the corner shop and the nearby hotel to the turreted castle, home of local earl Hamish Sinclair where preparations are underway for his upcoming – and much gossiped about – wedding.
The body in the loch soon has the rumour mills buzzing. But then Elena, the earl’s new bride, is also found poisoned to death the morning after her marriage! With two deaths to investigate, the police appear to suspect almost everyone in Locharran, even Ally herself…
Determined to uncover the truth and clear her name, Ally finds poison at the home of one of her suspects and thinks she might be on the right path to solving both murders. But with a killer on the loose in the Scottish Highlands, can Ally unravel the clues before the next person in a watery grave is her?
A completely addictive Scottish cosy mystery from bestselling author Dee MacDonald. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Clare Chase.
My Review
The storyline heavily features local Earl Hamish, who has always had an eye of the ladies. Despite his advancing years, he hasn't let this slow him down on the romance front and that is certainly tied up in this lastest outbreak of murder.
The setting for these books is the beautiful highlands and Ally's guest house that I would love to go and stay in. It all sounds so lovely. Maybe not if people are going to keep getting themselves murdered up there though!
I was a little ahead of Ally on this one at every step, although only just ahead if I'm honest. I really enjoyed this read and I'm looking forward to heading north again soon and joining Ally, Ross and Flora the dog again in the near future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Author Bio:
She has worked in Market Research, Sales and at the Thames TV Studios when they had the franchise.
Dee has since relocated to Cornwall, where she spent 10 years running B&Bs, and only began writing when she was over 70!
Married twice, she has one son and two grandsons.
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDeeMacDonald
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Tuesday, 21 January 2025
Daring Destiny - Kaylene Winter

Daring Destiny
Kaylene Winter
(Charming Irish, #2)
Publication date: January 13th 2025
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Daring Destiny is a sweltering saga of billionaire intrigue, opposites-attract, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers with an unexpected life-changing twist.
Before I founded my AI tech company, I spent my high school years silently pining over Astrid Gustafsson, the unattainable ice-blonde beauty. Fast forward a decade and I’m shocked when she asks to collaborate on a secret project. The opportunity is too enticing to pass up.
Our newfound friendship quickly ignites into a wildfire of desire, and my passion for Astrid intensifies, leaving me eager to risk everything for our future. The challenge is, relentless demands of my high-stakes empire threaten to smother the flames of our burgeoning romance.
When fate dramatically intervenes, will a life-changing twist dare us to embrace our destiny?
Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks

Author Bio:
When she was only 15, Kaylene Winter wrote her first rocker romance novel starring a fictionalized version of herself, her friends and their gorgeous rocker boyfriends. After living her own rockstar life as a band manager, music promoter and mover and shaker in Seattle during the early 1990’s, Kaylene became a digital media legal strategist helping bring movies, television and music online. Throughout her busy career, Kaylene lost herself in romance novels across all genres inspiring her to realize her life-long dream to be a published author. She lives in Seattle with her amazing husband and dog. She loves to travel, throw lavish dinner parties and support charitable causes supporting arts and animals.
My Review
I really enjoy Kaylene Winter's books; they offer something a little beyond your usual romance. Having read all of her Less than Zero books and then the following spin-off series, I knew that I was going to enjoy Daring Destiny, and I wasn't disappointed.
This is an old friend reconnecting and then becoming something more romantic. It also has the added level of featuring a character who is neurodiverse. This gives him a different way of looking at life and also makes him a very different but still very desirable romance hero. In many ways, he is perfect for Astrid, and the two of them make for a perfect balance.
I really enjoyed this romance and couldn't put it down, getting through it in just over a day. I loved the different levels that Kaylene Winter brings to her stories; this is no exception. All of her books are interconnected, but you don't need to read any of the others to enjoy this one (I recommend that you do though) you don't even need to have read the first in this series.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the Charming Irish series, which I think will feature younger brother Seamus.
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Saturday, 18 January 2025
Prelude to Murder - Erica Miner
Young, prodigious Metropolitan Opera violinist Julia Kogan, having survived her entanglement in an investigation of her mentor’s murder, and a subsequent violent, life-threatening attack of a ruthless killer, is called upon for a key musical leadership position at the Santa Fe Opera. But at the spectacular outdoor theatre in the shadows of the mysterious New Mexican Sangre de Cristo Mountains, she witnesses yet other operatic murders, both onstage and off. Dark and painful secrets emerge as, ignoring warnings from her colleagues and from Larry, her significant other, Julia plunges into her own investigation of the killing. Ghostly apparitions combine with some of the most bloody and violent operas in the repertoire to make Julia question her own motives for searching for the killer. But this time the threat to her life originates from a source she never would have imagined.
Excerpt
Places, everyone. Now, Emilia—that is, Lulu...”
Emilia faced Salman with a disparaging look.
“You are Garbo, Dietrich, Louise Brooks. Your formidable
psychic force causes you to destroy everyone
in your path. Those who fall in love with you suffer or die. You have undone Dr. Schön, but you don’t know that Goran is Jack the
Ripper.”
Emilia remained silent.
Salman turned to Goran. “The so-called ‘Whitechapel Murderer’ cut his victims’
throats before he eviscerated them with medical precision, showing knowledge of
human anatomy.
Thus, the parallels
between Jack and his alter
ego, Dr. Schön.
Jack’s music is less harsh
than Schön’s but more
menacing. The man Lulu murders is the one who murders her. And still present
after his death.”
Matt leaned
over and whispered to Julia. “Kind
of like John Crosby, right?”
Julia shuddered.
“Marin,” Salman said,
“You must convey
the distressed attributes of the countess.
When you sing ‘Im Ewigkeit’ after Goran stabs you, it
is your Liebestod, your tragic love
death.”
Julia, elated to see her friend appear onstage, waved in Marin’s
direction.
“This music is difficult enough
without your being
distracted, Julia,” Stewart
snapped. Julia heard a soft chortle from behind her and snuck a
peek at Lenny, smiling crookedly.
Maybe Matt is right. I’d better watch out for this guy.
Emilia whispered to Goran. “She sings too loud. Always
tries to upstage
me.”
Marin frowned. “I heard that, Emilia. In case you’ve
forgotten, I’m your lesbian lover. Try to be a little
kinder, would you?”
Salman suppressed a groan. “Let’s
just sing, shall
we?”
“Das ist nich deine schwester,” Goran sang to Emilia. “Sie ist in dich verliebt.” [That’s
not your sister. She clearly is in love with you.]
“You could have fooled me,” Marin muttered
under her breath.
“What did you say?” Fuming,
Emilia turned to Salman. “You see? She is sabotaging me.” “Could we continue, please?” Salman begged. “Lulu and
Jack, offstage, final dialogue.” Emilia’s nostrils flared, but she allowed
Goran to shepherd her off into the wings.
“Nein, nein!” [No, no!] came Emilia’s bloodcurdling cry. “Lulu, mein engel!”
[Lulu, my angel!]
Marin rushed offstage, then returned, slowly
backing up, eyes wide in horror, as Goran stalked
onstage wielding an oversized stage knife, which he plunged into her.
Then he washed off the knife with wine from a bottle
on a table, wiped the knife on his coat, and sang: “I am just the damned luckiest
of men!”
Salman was ecstatic. “Excellent, excellent.”
Julia couldn’t
take her eyes off the action until
she caught Stewart’s disapproving glare.
Meanwhile,
Emilia had returned
to the stage. “Hours wasted
because of his terrible incompetence,” she shouted. “Murder must be onstage!”
Salman finally lost his patience.
“It’s the way John Crosby conceived it,” he growled.
“Take it up with
him.”
“But John Crosby is dead.” “Precisely,” said Salman.
“Oh!” cried Emilia. Fuming, she marched toward the wings,
where she ran into Magda. “How am I supposed
to stand in these shoes for three hours? They pinch my feet!” Emilia
shrieked at the costume
director. “Where are shoes you were supposed to order from Italy?”
“I am sorry,
Emilia. They still
have not arrived.
I will check with wardrobe
director.” Emilia gritted her teeth. “See that you do. Nézd meg.”
Julia was surprised
to hear the Italian soprano
speak Hungarian, but when she looked up at the podium,
she was mortified to see Stewart glaring at her.
“It seems you find the stage more interesting than your music,”
the conductor said. Julia heard a soft snicker behind her. Ignoring Lenny,
Julia kept on playing.
Salman was furious.
“Your attitude will make you even more enemies than you already
have, Emilia!” he shouted.
Turning on his heel, he stomped offstage in the opposite direction.
“Harold,” Stewart called out, “Tell Emilia if she shows up at the dress rehearsal less than thirty minutes
before downbeat, she will be replaced. Where is her understudy? Deborah!”
An attractive young woman sitting
a few rows back stood
up. “I am here, Maestro.” “Be ready to jump in in case
Emilia does anything else stupid.”
Deborah’s smile radiated
hope and anticipation. “Yes, Maestro.”
Harold stood rooted to the stage, his expression helpless.
My Review
Prelude to murder is the second Julia Kogan mystery. I haven't read the first one, but this does work as a standalone story. Julia has recently arrived in New Mexico to be part of the orchestra for an Opera company. She usually lives and works in New York, so this is quite a change for her.
I have to admit that my knowledge of opera is slim to non-existant, but I still enjoyed the reference to the various operas that the company performs over the course of the season to be interesting. Julia, a violin player, is key to the orchestra and to have this role seems to be quite an achievment.
The mystery itself is one that I completely failed to solve. There were numerous clues along the way, but somehow I missed them all and had no idea who was behind it all when it came time for the big reveal. I wasn't entirely convinced that the local police would have enlisted Julia's help. I also didn't really understand her boyfriend Larry's role or how their relationship worked. I think that might be simply because I haven't read the first book though.
Overall this was an engaging and interesting muder mystery and I'd be interested to read any future books in the series.