A DEADLY DEDICATION

A writer of gothic novels continues her second-act stint as an amateur detective.

After writing a bestseller, Penelope Parish developed writer’s block, which she overcame by moving from New York to Upper Chumley-on-Stoke, England, to serve as writer-in-residence at the Open Book bookstore. There, she turned out a second bestseller, made a host of friends, and gained a love interest by helping to solve several murders. Now the residents are roiled once more when Simeon Foster, who owns a chain of gourmet food shops, announces his plan to open one in Chumley, making instant enemies of shopkeepers and purists intent on preserving the town’s Old World charm. At the town council meeting, almost everyone opposes the new store, but the council, ignoring the vocal cadre, unexpectedly approves the plan. The night of Guy Fawkes Day brings a large crowd to watch the fireworks. Soon after Penelope joins the party with her friends, she stumbles over Foster's body lying on a blanket with a thermos and some sweet treats. The officer sent to investigate is DCI Brody Maguire, whose warm relationship with Penelope has made him well aware of her curiosity and her skills as a detective. The heart attack everyone hopes Foster had turns out to be death by poisoned chocolates. With so many suspects, it won’t be an easy task to solve the murder, and a second death makes the case even more difficult. Penelope’s friends naturally encourage her to investigate, and the discovery that her sister had a motive adds all the motivation she needs.

Interestingly quirky characters add charm to a mystery packed with red herrings.