Description
With high hopes, Daphne Ballinger lands her dream job at The New York Times. But it's not long until writing about weddings becomes a painful reminder of her own failed romance, and her love of the city slowly sours as well. Is it time to give up the Big Apple for her small hometown of Appleton?
When her eccentric Aunt Dee passes away and leaves a sizeable estate to Daphne, going back home is an easy choice. What isn’t easy is coming to terms with the downright odd clauses written into the will.
Daphne only stands to inherit the estate if she agrees to her aunt's very specific posthumous terms -- personal and professional. And if she fails to comply, the sprawling old Victorian house shall be bequeathed to . . . Aunt Dee’s cats.
And if Daphne thinks that’s odd, wait until she finds out an array of secrets about Aunt Dee's life, and how imperfect circumstances can sometimes lead to God's perfect timing.
When her eccentric Aunt Dee passes away and leaves a sizeable estate to Daphne, going back home is an easy choice. What isn’t easy is coming to terms with the downright odd clauses written into the will.
Daphne only stands to inherit the estate if she agrees to her aunt's very specific posthumous terms -- personal and professional. And if she fails to comply, the sprawling old Victorian house shall be bequeathed to . . . Aunt Dee’s cats.
And if Daphne thinks that’s odd, wait until she finds out an array of secrets about Aunt Dee's life, and how imperfect circumstances can sometimes lead to God's perfect timing.
MY REVIEW:
"Lock, Stock, and Over a Barrel" by Melody Carlson is a delightful and entertaining cozy mystery that takes readers on a wild ride in the small and quirky town of Rock Harbor. This book, part of the Rock Harbor Mysteries series, combines suspense, humor, and a touch of romance to create an engaging and enjoyable reading experience.
In this installment, the protagonist, McKenna Rhodes, finds herself entangled in yet another mysterious circumstance. When a rare collector's item goes missing, she sets out to solve the case, uncovering surprising secrets along the way. Melody Carlson's writing style is light-hearted and easy to follow, making it a quick and enjoyable read.
One of the highlights of this book is the vibrant and lovable cast of characters. McKenna Rhodes is a relatable and determined protagonist, with her curiosity and sharp wit leading her on her investigative journey. The supporting characters, from the endearing townsfolk to the quirky suspects, add depth and charm to the story. Carlson's ability to create unique and memorable characters is one of the book's strongest aspects.
The mystery itself is well-crafted, with intriguing twists and turns that keep readers engaged. The author provides a good balance of clues and red herrings, allowing readers to make their own guesses while keeping them in suspense. Although some aspects of the mystery may feel predictable or resolved too neatly, the engaging storytelling and likable characters make up for it.
The setting of Rock Harbor adds an extra layer of charm and atmosphere to the story. Carlson's vivid descriptions bring the small coastal town to life, making readers feel as if they are right there alongside the characters. The town's quirky residents and picturesque setting add depth and dynamics to the storyline, creating an enjoyable backdrop for the mystery to unfold.
While the book offers an entertaining and enjoyable experience, it may not necessarily leave a lasting impact. Some readers may find the plot formulaic or predictable, and the resolution somewhat rushed. However, the cozy mystery genre often relies on familiar structures, and the book's strengths lie in its engaging characters and the author's ability to create a delightful sense of community.
This was an entertaining cozy mystery that offers an enjoyable escape into the charming world of Rock Harbor. Melody Carlson's engaging characters and vivid setting make for an engaging and pleasant reading experience. I would recommend this book to fans of cozy mysteries who are looking for a light-hearted and fun-filled adventure.
RATING: 4/5
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